Techniques / Printing
Spot UV Gloss
Spot UV applies a UV-cured varnish to selected areas of the sheet — a glossy, slightly raised effect on logos, type, or patterns that pops against a matte background both visually and under the fingertips.
The trick is contrast: glossy areas catch light while the rest of the sheet absorbs it, so the coated elements flash in and out as the piece moves. On matte black stock, gloss-black spot UV is the definitive black-on-black move — invisible head-on, unmistakable at an angle.
It's versatile, too: business cards, brochure and lookbook covers, packaging, hang tags. Use it as the star (a full pattern flood over matte lamination) or the supporting act (a quiet gloss hit on just the logo). Pairs well with foil and emboss for layered finishes.
Where spot UV works
- Business cards — a gloss logo floating on matte stock.
- Covers — lookbook and brochure covers with pattern floods over matte lamination.
- Packaging & hang tags — shelf pieces that flash as they turn.
- Black on black — the definitive tone-on-tone move.
Spot UV gloss samples
FAQ
What is spot UV?
A UV-cured varnish applied to selected areas — glossy, slightly raised accents that pop against a matte background, visually and under the fingertips.
Spot UV or clear foil?
Spot UV floods large areas happily and rides over lamination; clear foil is stamped, crisper-edged, and sits prouder of the sheet. We'll pick the right tool.
What's the black-on-black effect?
Gloss-black spot UV on matte black stock — invisible head-on, unmistakable at an angle. See it and you'll spec it.
Does it pair with other finishes?
Yes — over matte lamination for maximum contrast, alongside foil and emboss for layered finishes.