Question 1

What is the difference between spot UV and flood UV coating?

Accepted Answer

Flood UV covers the entire surface of your printed piece with a uniform high-gloss finish, enhancing vibrancy and adding protection. Spot UV applies the coating selectively to specific areas — a logo, headline, or image — creating a tactile contrast between glossy and matte zones. Spot UV is our signature premium finish.

Question 2

How does UV coating make flyers more durable?

Accepted Answer

UV coating creates a hard, protective layer that resists fingerprints, scuffing, moisture, and general wear. Flyers with UV coating maintain their appearance significantly longer than uncoated prints, making them ideal for materials that will be handled repeatedly or displayed in high-traffic environments.

Question 3

What paper stock works best with UV coating?

Accepted Answer

16pt C2S (coated two sides) card stock delivers the best results with UV coating. The smooth, coated surface allows the UV finish to bond evenly and produce maximum gloss. 14pt card stock also works well for lighter applications. Text-weight papers are not recommended for UV coating as they lack the rigidity to showcase the finish properly.

Question 4

Will UV coating change the appearance of my colors?

Accepted Answer

UV coating enhances color vibrancy. Glossy UV makes colors appear deeper and more saturated, especially on photographic images. Colors on dark backgrounds gain extra depth. Light backgrounds may appear slightly brighter under the gloss. The effect is universally positive — UV coating makes good designs look better.

Question 5

How do I set up a file for spot UV printing?

Accepted Answer

Create your print artwork normally, then add a separate layer or file for the UV mask. The mask uses solid black (K:100) to indicate where the UV coating is applied, and white for areas that remain matte. The mask must be the exact same dimensions as your artwork. Detailed instructions are on our File Guidelines page.

Question 6

Can I get spot UV on both sides of my flyer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Spot UV can be applied to one or both sides of your printed piece. Each side requires its own UV mask layer. Two-sided spot UV is popular for business cards and premium event flyers where both faces represent the brand.

Question 7

Will spot UV work with my dark-background design?

Accepted Answer

Spot UV looks exceptional on dark backgrounds. The contrast between a matte dark surface and a glossy UV element creates a striking visual and tactile effect. Logos, text, and graphic elements in spot UV over dark matte backgrounds are one of our most popular design combinations.

Question 8

Can I get a UV coating sample before ordering?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We offer free sample packs that include both flood UV and spot UV examples on different paper stocks. Feeling the difference in person is the best way to choose the right finish for your project. Request samples from our sample page.

Question 9

What products can be UV coated?

Accepted Answer

We offer UV coating on flyers, business cards, postcards, rack cards, booklet covers, and presentation folders. Most card stock products can receive either flood UV or spot UV treatment. Check each product page for available finish options.

Question 10

What is the minimum order for UV coated prints?

Accepted Answer

Minimum quantities vary by product. Club flyers start at 100 units. Business cards start at 250. Postcards start at 100. Spot UV orders have the same minimums as flood UV — there is no additional minimum for the premium finish.

Question 11

How does spot UV pricing compare to standard printing?

Accepted Answer

Spot UV adds a premium over standard printing that reflects the additional production step. The exact cost depends on your product, quantity, and whether UV is on one or both sides. Pricing is fully transparent on each product page when you select the spot UV finish option.

Question 12

How long does UV coated production take?

Accepted Answer

Standard production for UV coated orders is 5 to 7 business days from proof approval. Rush options are available and can deliver UV coated prints in as few as 3 business days. 24-hour rush is available for time-sensitive projects.

Question 13

Does UV coating require extra drying or curing time?

Accepted Answer

No. UV coating is cured instantly by ultraviolet light during application. There is no additional drying time needed. Your prints are ready to handle, stack, and ship immediately after the UV curing process.

Question 14

Do you ship UV coated prints differently?

Accepted Answer

UV coated prints are packaged with extra care. We use interleaving sheets to prevent surface contact between prints and reinforced packaging to protect the glossy finish during transit. Every order ships with tracking.

Question 15

What is your quality guarantee on UV coated prints?

Accepted Answer

We guarantee the quality of every UV coated print we produce. If your order arrives with UV coating defects — bubbling, uneven application, peeling, or misalignment on spot UV — we will reprint at no cost. Submit a claim within 7 days of delivery with photos.

Question 16

Can I write on UV coated prints?

Accepted Answer

UV coating creates a slick surface that resists most standard pens. If you need a writable area on your print, request spot UV instead of flood UV — the matte, uncoated areas accept pen ink normally. This is common for event RSVP cards or postcards with mailing addresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

UV Coating Basics

Spot UV Specifics

Ordering

Production and Delivery

Quality

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