UV Printing Services

UV Printing & UV Coating by Dave the Printer

Dave the Printer can add a UV coating to print jobs that we print. Dave can UV coat the full sheet (flood) including one or both sides or add a spot UV to specific areas like your logo to help it stand out. In the business card shown here, we have spot UV on certain elements of the design to add depth and a unique look. Raised spot UV is now available on certain print items (ask Dave about the details). While Dave the Printer can add UV to any new print job, we cannot add UV printing or coating to any pre-printed items.

If we are adding a flood UV to an item we are printing, there is no need for special artwork. If you would like a spot UV, we can assist you on how to set up the files.

What is UV (Ultraviolet) Coating & What Does it do for my Printing?

UV coating, also known as ultraviolet coating, is a transparent, lustrous liquid coating applied to printed materials. This coating is a popular printing technique for protecting items that are handled often during delivery or use. UV is a type of coating that’s applied to printed material after the ink has been applied to the paper. This protective layer helps extend the life of your print and gives it a high-gloss finish. You can apply UV coating to boxes, business cards, flyers, invitations, and other print materials.

 A printed page with UV coating applied is usually very shiny with rich colors. A good example of what UV coating looks like would be photo paper sold for home printing projects. A good example of UV actually applied to printing would be a high gloss Postcard you may have in your mail right now. One side probably has a dull finish and the high gloss side is UV-coated.

Should I Get UV Coating or Aqueous Coating on My Print Order?

Aqueous coating is a clear, water-based varnish added to a printed object during the printing process. Regardless of whether you’re considering UV or Aqueous, in most cases, it will help protect your final product while adding a beautiful shine. If you plan on mailing a postcard, a print coating is highly recommended and we suggest using UV on the non-mailing side. If your printed piece will be handled a lot, we recommend using an Aqueous coating to help protect your printing without picking up fingerprints as easily as UV might.

Should I Have a Coating Added to my Print Order?

Sometimes your printed piece might be hindered by a print coating. Note cards and greeting cards, for example, do not need a UV coating. Applying one would make writing on the card difficult, defeating the intended purpose of your greeting cards! One option for these types of items is to only use a coating on the outside border, leaving the inside with a more writable matte or uncoated finish.

What are the benefits of UV Coating?

• Enhanced Visual Appeal: UV coating enhances the appearance of your printed materials making the colors rich and bold, making them more attractive and eye-catching.

• Increased Durability: Protect your prints from scratches, scuffs, and fading with UV coating, ensuring they maintain quality over time.

• Water and Chemical Resistance: UV coating provides a protective barrier that makes printed materials resistant to water damage and chemical spills.

• Quick Drying Time: With UV curing technology, the coating dries instantly, allowing for faster production turnaround times.

Does UV Coated Printing Last and Does UV Coating Work?

A UV print will typically last at least 2 years without fading, and with lamination this can be even longer.

UV Coating can be applied as a flood (the entire sheet) or as a spot coating (just a small area such as a logo). These coatings stay open (wet) as long as there is no exposure to UV light. Once exposed to UV light, UV coating will solidify making it a great option as a spot coating for logos and on business cards.

Bang for Your Buck!

Because of its fast dry time, UV-coated printing is an incredibly cost-effective method. Getting your job looking great with a high gloss finish and a day or two sooner is always a good thing. 

Call us at 214-630-4017 , email us at service@davetheprinter.com or fill out our quote form today. At Dave the Printer, you will receive high quality printing with a UV Coating, and on time! Delivery, pickup and shipping are available.

 As Dave’s been saying for more than 50 years, he’ll “bend over backwards” to make his customers happy. What are you waiting for? That great first printed impression is just a call or click away.