A separate varnish layer
Create the areas to be varnished in a named spot colour (for example “SpotUV”), applied at 100% and set to overprint. Place this layer separately, perfectly aligned with the CMYK artwork beneath.
Clean, bold areas
Spot UV looks best on bold shapes: logos, large headlines, solids. Avoid tiny text and very fine rules, which are hard to register precisely on the print.
Allow a little play
A tiny shift between ink and varnish is always possible. Don’t make legibility depend on perfect registration: the artwork must still work even if the varnish moves by a hair.
Check before you send
- Separate varnish layer, named spot colour
- Varnish at 100% and set to overprint
- Bold shapes, no micro-details
- Artwork still legible if slightly out of register
Frequently asked questions
Does the varnish replace a colour?
No — it sits on top of the CMYK print. Prepare it as an extra layer without removing the colour underneath.
Not sure about your file?
Our AI assistant checks your file and flags anything that needs adjusting — and can even create your print-ready artwork, bleed included. Nothing goes to press without your approval.
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