The Whitley Printing Company

Printing 101

Coatings

Most printed pieces with heavy ink coverage (especially on smooth or glossy paper) should get some kind of coating to seal the ink onto the sheet to protect it from scuffing or marking. Any printed piece that will remain outdoors should also have some kind of coating to prevent fading.

Varnishes

It is applied on-press just like another ink color. Spot Varnishing adds glossy or dull highlights to the image’s specific areas. Gloss spot varnish is often used to enhance photographs. Dull spot varnish can reduce glare in text-heavy areas. Full, or “Flood” Varnishing provides an overall glossy or dull sheen to the printed sheet. Varnishes can be clear or slightly tinted, but even clear varnish changes ink color slightly, especially metallic inks. Varnish provides some protection against fingerprints, but not against scuffing, dirt, or spills. Varnish will yellow with age.

Aqueous Coating

A flood liquid coating comprised of polymers and water that aids drying and protects against scuffing, dirt or water. Aqueous coatings are often used on magazine and brochure covers and on other products to be sent though the mail. It is applied inline by separate special coating unit.

UV Coating

Harder, glossier, and offers more protection than aqueous coating. A plastic liquid is applied to the sheet and cured to a durable finish using ultraviolet light. Often used for book covers and table tents. Keep in mind that UV coating may crack at folds and the process emits high levels of VOCs.

Laminates

Clear plastic film that offers the most protection against abrasion and moisture. Polyester, polypropylene, or nylon film is adhered to one or both sides of the sheet. Available in different thicknesses, sealed or flushed edges, glossy, dull and satin finishes. Thinner films are often used for book covers and packaging; thicker, sealed edge films are chosen for menus, signs, etc.