Definition:

A coating applied over the printed page is an overprint varnish. Part of the printing or finishing process, varnish is applied like a final layer of ink after a piece is printed. It may be clear or tinted and produce a dull, satin, or glossy finish. More than one type of overprint varnish may be used to create special effects. The overprint varnish may be applied as an all-over varnish (flood coating) or as a spot varnish (applied only to parts of the page or design.


The term overprint varnish may be used informally to refer to other types of finish coatings including UV (ultra-violet) and AQ (Aqueous, water-based) coatings. To determine the best type of overprint varnish and to avoid confusion when specifying a finish for your printed piece, always talk to your printer about what effect you want and how different coatings will look on different papers. The cost, appearance, and suitability can vary.

 

Also Known As: overprint coating | overprint finish | varnish | spot varnish