Spot UV coating is a premium finishing process used in printing and packaging that applies a clear, glossy ultraviolet-cured coating to specific areas of a printed piece. Unlike overall UV coating that covers an entire surface, spot UV is selectively applied to highlight particular design elements, creating a striking contrast between glossy and matte areas.

The process begins with regular printing on paper or cardstock. Then, a liquid coating is applied precisely to designated spots using a screen printing technique. This coating contains photo-initiators that react when exposed to ultraviolet light, instantly curing and hardening to create a raised, glass-like finish. The height of this coating can vary from subtle to distinctly tactile, adding both visual and textural dimension to the piece.

Common applications for spot UV include business cards, book covers, packaging, brochures, and luxury marketing materials. Designers often use it to emphasize logos, patterns, text, or images. The coating can be applied over printed areas or on blank spaces, creating invisible patterns that only become apparent when light hits the surface at certain angles.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, spot UV coating offers practical benefits. The hardened coating provides protection against scratching, scuffing, and moisture. It can enhance the durability of frequently handled items while maintaining their visual appeal. The coating also resists fingerprints and adds stability to the printed material.

When planning a design with spot UV, it's important to consider factors like paper stock selection, as some materials accept the coating better than others. Textured papers may not achieve the same smooth, glossy finish as coated stocks. Additionally, the coating's thickness should be carefully controlled to ensure proper curing and prevent potential adhesion issues.

This versatile finishing technique continues to evolve, with variations like textured patterns, raised effects, and combination with other finishing methods like foil stamping becoming increasingly popular in modern print design.

with a spot UV finish, creating a subtle yet striking contrast on the cover or dust jacket.