---
type: faq
title: "What is a varnish in printing?"
description: "A varnish is an ink-like clear coating applied on the printing press. It can flood the entire sheet or be laid down only on chosen areas as a spot varnish,"
resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/finishes-coatings/what-is-a-varnish-in-printing
tags: ["Printing Terms Glossary", "faq"]
timestamp: 2026-07-20T18:54:40.856Z
---

# What is a varnish in printing?

A varnish is an ink-like clear coating applied on the printing press. It can flood the entire sheet or be laid down only on chosen areas as a spot varnish,

Part of the **Printing Terms Glossary** hub. See [all faq concepts](index.md).

- Page type: faq
- Hub: Printing Terms Glossary
- URL: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/finishes-coatings/what-is-a-varnish-in-printing