What is UV coating, exactly? UV coating is basically a compound that is applied to paper wet and then instantly dried by ultraviolet light. Several different types of compounds are used to coat paper, including polyethylene, calcium carbonate and kaolinite. These compounds are refined and mixed with viscosifiers that help them adhere to paper. UV coatings can vary in reflectivity and thickness, depending on the application, though a high gloss or subtle matte are typically used in premium printing applications.

What can be UV coated? Just about anything can be UV coated, though it is worth noting that UV coating typically works best on thicker paper. This means that business cards, postcards, booklet and calendar covers, catalog covers, flyers and sales sheets make great candidates for UV coating.

Spot UV refers to the application of this UV Coating to a specific area (or areas) of a printed piece rather than coating the entire surface. Used primarily as a design technique, Spot UV is a creative way to add depth and contrast through varying levels of sheen and texture.

Because the Spot UV technique creates a very distinctive look, it is most often used on pieces that are promotional in nature…such as brochures and presentation folders. It is also a popular choice for high-impact business cards and book covers.

Spot UV can be applied over inked images to enhance a printed design. Or, it can be applied directly to the paper substrate to create the design by itself, without the use of any ink. If applied directly to the paper, Spot UV offers the best contrast when applied over a darker substrate. In fact, a very popular finish combination is a high-gloss Spot UV over a dark, matte stock

Why should I have my printed marketing materials UV coated? There are three main reasons why you should have your marketing materials UV coated.

• The first, and most obvious, is that a UV coating will enrich your design and enhance your colors. This, in turn, lends to customer confidence because you are able to print premium marketing materials.
• When you print premium marketing materials, it says that you are successful. And if you are successful, you probably have a good track record of satisfied customers. Thus, your customers will feel more comfortable doing business with you.
• Finally, UV coating protects your marketing materials so they last longer. The longer your marketing materials last, the more they can work to earn a response for you, thus you will increase your return on investment and get the most out of your marketing buck when you have your print marketing materials UV coated.

Have a Printing design that includes UV Coating that needs to go from concept to reality? Get in touch with a Hotspot Printing & Packaging specialist today!  You can call us, 310-538-2540, or submit a quote online.