GP Guide to UV Coating

UV coating is a quick hardening layer applied over ink on a printed piece. UV coating adds a brilliant high gloss and is applied wet, then cured with specialized equipment and ultraviolet light. Not all print jobs should use UV coating, but for those that do, below are a few tips to help you plan your next print job accordingly.

Let It Shine!

UV coating can go a long way when it comes to adding life to your design. UV coating creates a shine that can appear wet with certain color combinations. When standing out among other print pieces is a priority, like a postcard in a mailbox, bright colors combined with UV coating can add that extra POP that will land your message on someones desk instead of the recycling bin.

Durability

UV coating protects printed pieces that endure harsh conditions such as a postcard being sifted through the post office or business cards stuffed info a wallet. The UV coat applies a thick layer of durability that will help your printing, and message, last longer.

Environmentally Friendly

UV coatings are free of solvents and do not emit volatile organic compounds when cured.

Speed

UV coating dries fast, therefore your printing will arrive when you expect it with no need for extended wait times.

You might consider UV coating on the following:

• Business Cards
• Postcards
• Brochures
• Invitations
• Greeting cards
• Rack cards
• Custom printing on gloss stock
• Posters
• Book & catalog covers
• Calendars

Not recommended to UV coat:

• Textured papers
• Letterhead
• Anything you plan to write on
• Anything you print on, ie. inkjet
• Metallic inks & foil stamping
• Lighter weight stock, generally less than 100#
• Anything you desire to have a matte finish