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Spot UV Process
This article explains the spot UV process.
Spot UV is a liquid varnish applied on top of the printed surface that creates a high-gloss shine. Sometimes called a spot gloss, spot UV can be placed on top of an image such as a logo or title to make it pop out against a matte or uncoated background. It’s a great specialty option to add on to your project and can really make your printed piece stand out from the crowd – the juxtaposition of matte and high gloss makes your project look luxe.
The spot UV varnish is applied using the same offset printing method as your printed pieces. A clean ink fountain in the printing press is filled with the spot UV varnish and a new plate with the spot gloss image is inserted. The printed parent sheets are run through the press and then exposed to ultraviolet light hardening the varnish. What results is a beautiful effect!
When spot UV is applied to a spot without any printing underneath, it is known as a ‘blind’ Spot UV. This is a super cool effect – we especially like using this specialty option on card and board game boxes.