Spot UV Varnish on Business Cards
Short answer
Spot UV treats selected areas to create a surface contrast. Flat and raised results are different: describe the intended effect with a sample. Background treatment, mask format and reproducible detail must suit the actual production system rather than a universal line-width rule.
The central artwork task is alignment between the colour design and the varnish mask. Choose a clear logo or graphic area for the effect and preserve easy reading of the contact details. This is a selective finishing specification, not a promise that every UV process produces an embossed result.
Key facts
- Area
- Defined logo or graphic
- Mask
- Same dimensions and position as colour artwork
- Effect
- Flat or raised — specify separately
- Detail
- Limits established for the process and sample
Align colour artwork and the mask
Use identical page dimensions and origin for both files. Identify treated and untreated areas and follow the agreed colour or layer naming convention. Inspect an overlay of the two to detect a moved logo or a scale mismatch. A dark shape in the colour artwork does not automatically identify the varnish area.
Detail and registration risk
Fine rules, small counters in letters and exact colour-edge alignment need particular review. A fixed 1 mm line or 12 pt type limit is not valid for every system. If varnish closely follows tiny text, consider a simpler shape or an independent decorative accent that is less sensitive to registration.
Background and accompanying effects
A glossy accent often contrasts clearly with a matte field, but matte lamination is not mandatory for every UV process. Check stock or film compatibility, intended height and treated sides. Adding foil can introduce separate preparation and sample requirements; it is not automatically part of the same pass.
Spot varnish artwork specification
| Input | What to specify |
|---|---|
| Background | Stock or specific film |
| Effect | Flat / raised with a reference sample |
| Mask | Dimensions, alignment and naming convention |
| Detail | Finest line and type for assessment |
| Sides | Front, back or both |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spot UV the same as gloss lamination?
What if I have no mask?
Should varnish cover the QR code?
What affects cost and timing?
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