Instructions for Spot UV Business Cards

When ordering spot UV cards, it’s important to review the following to avoid delays or unexpected print results.

  1. Ensure the file is 3.5” x 2”, and is created in CMYK 300 dpi with 1/16 inch (0.0625”) bleeds on all sides.
  2. Ensure fonts are larger than 8pt, and embed or outline them before exporting. Use sans serif fonts for best results.
  3. Separate artwork into two files: one is for the spot UV, for which the artwork’s color should be set to 100% black (C0, M0, Y0, K100.) Another file should be in the CMYK color space for artwork that is to be printed.
    1. If you require one side to be completely UV coated, the corresponding page in your template file should be entirely filled with 100% K.
    2. If ordering a 4/4 job with spot UV on only one side, please ensure that page 1 of your artwork is the spot UV side.
    3. Leave at least a 5mm (approximately 0.20″) varnish-free area around the edges. Extending the varnish to the edge of the card creates a high possibility of the varnish peeling off.
    4. Positioning of the spot UV cannot be 100% guaranteed. Please note that there may be a shift of approximately 1/16″ in the spot UV position on the printed product. We do not recommend placing spot UV on small text or very small images.
    5. Be sure to DELETE any hidden layers that are not intended to print (ie: setup guide layers or other hidden artwork layers) to ensure no risk of them appearing on the final print
  4. Export all files into PDF format with bleeds.