Emma Davis Print Production Specialist at 4OVER4.COM
Emma is our prepress and print production voice, built from the knowledge of our production team, with over 20 years in printing.
Question
How do I set up my file for spot UV printing?
Answer
Spot UV needs its own mask layer that tells the press exactly where to apply the gloss. Build a separate layer in your design file, name it clearly (something like "Spot UV" or "UV Mask"), and fill only the areas you want coated with solid black at 100% K. Everything you do not want coated stays transparent on that layer.
- Solid black (100% K) marks the coated areas. No gradients, tints, or gray.
- Transparent everywhere else so the press leaves those areas matte.
- Same dimensions and alignment as your artwork so the gloss lands precisely.
- You can even add spot UV to a scannable code for a polished, eye-catching accent.
- Supply the mask as a separate layer or file and keep it perfectly registered to the main art.
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