Spot UV Magazines
Spot UV magazines feature a selective high-gloss varnish applied to specific areas of the cover — logos, headlines, images, or graphic elements — creating a striking contrast between matte and glossy surfaces. This premium finish adds depth, dimension, and tactile interest that immediately communicates quality and attention to detail.
At Perklets Print, we use precision UV coating technology to apply spot varnish with exceptional accuracy, creating effects that range from subtle logo highlights to dramatic full-image gloss contrasts. The interplay between matt lamination and high-gloss UV creates a visual and tactile experience that elevates your magazine from standard to extraordinary.
Spot UV is particularly effective on dark-coloured covers where the gloss catches the light dramatically, and on covers with strong graphic elements where selective shine draws the eye to key brand elements. Combined with our premium paper stocks and CMYK printing, spot UV magazines make a powerful first impression at trade shows, in reception areas, and in direct mail campaigns.
Product Specifications
Summary Options
Design Guidelines
Provide two cover files: (1) full-colour print file and (2) a separate spot UV mask file in solid black indicating areas to receive UV varnish.
- Bleed area: 3mm bleed on all sides. UV mask must align precisely with the print file — provide both at identical dimensions.
- Crop area: A4 cover size: 210 x 297 mm (plus spine and bleed for perfect bound). UV mask file at same dimensions.
- Safe area: Spot UV details smaller than 1mm may not reproduce cleanly. Avoid UV on fine text below 8pt. Keep 2mm gap between UV and non-UV areas.
Accepted formats: Print file: AI, EPS, PDF. UV mask: separate PDF with black areas indicating UV. INDD (packaged with UV layer)
Quantity
FAQs: Spot UV Magazines
What is spot UV on a magazine?
Spot UV is a high-gloss varnish selectively applied to specific areas of the magazine cover — such as logos, headlines, or images — creating a striking contrast between matt and glossy surfaces. It adds premium tactile and visual appeal.
How do I prepare artwork for spot UV?
You need two files: your full-colour print file and a separate UV mask file. The mask uses solid black shapes to indicate exactly where the UV varnish should be applied. Both files must be at identical dimensions.
Can spot UV be applied to inner pages?
Spot UV is typically applied to the cover only. Applying UV to inner pages is possible but significantly increases cost and production time. For inner page enhancement, we recommend premium paper stocks or spot colour inks instead.
What is the minimum detail size for spot UV?
For crisp results, spot UV elements should be at least 1mm wide. Fine text should be 8pt or larger. Very intricate patterns may lose definition — our pre-press team will advise if your design needs adjustment.
Does spot UV work on any colour cover?
Spot UV works on all colours but is most dramatic on dark backgrounds (black, navy, deep red) where the gloss catches the light. On light backgrounds, the effect is more subtle and tactile than visual.