Spot UV & Spot Gloss Flyer Printing

Spot UV flyers—also commonly searched as spot gloss flyers—combine full color printing with a selective high-gloss coating applied to specific areas of the design. This contrast between glossy and non-glossy surfaces creates a striking visual and tactile effect that draws attention to key elements such as logos, headlines, images, or calls-to-action. Spot UV and spot gloss flyer printing is ideal when you want your marketing materials to feel elevated, intentional, and premium.

Unlike overall UV coating, spot UV (spot gloss) printing allows you to highlight only certain parts of the artwork while keeping the rest of the flyer matte or silk-finished. The result is a flyer that catches light, adds texture, and encourages people to pause and interact with your design.

Full Color Printing with Spot UV / Spot Gloss

Spot UV and spot gloss flyers are printed in full color using high-quality CMYK printing, followed by a precision gloss coating process applied only to selected areas. Spot gloss can be applied to one or both sides of the flyer depending on your layout and branding goals.

• Full Color Front with Spot UV / Spot Gloss – The most popular option for logos, headlines, and visual accents.
• Full Color Front & Back with Spot Gloss – Ideal for premium brand pieces and high-impact promotions.
• Full Color with Spot UV on the Front Only – Keeps the back clean and readable while focusing attention on the primary message.

Popular Flyer Sizes

Spot UV and spot gloss coating is available across most standard flyer sizes, allowing you to add a premium finish without changing your layout or format.

• 4" × 6" – Compact promotional flyers and inserts.
• 5" × 7" – Event flyers and brand-forward handouts.
• 5.5" × 8.5" – Half-sheet flyers, menus, and take-home pieces.
• 8.5" × 11" – Full-size flyers for maximum visual presence.
• Custom sizes – Available for unique layouts and standout campaigns.

Recommended Paper Stocks

Spot gloss flyers perform best on smooth, coated paper stocks that create strong contrast between the matte base and high-gloss spot coating.

• Silk / satin cover stocks – Balanced contrast with a refined feel.
• Matte coated stocks – Maximizes shine and texture in spot gloss areas.
• Heavy cover weights – Adds structure and durability for premium presentation.

Spot UV / Spot Gloss Design Benefits

Spot UV (spot gloss) is both a visual and tactile enhancement that increases perceived value and draws attention where it matters most.

• High-gloss accents that reflect light and catch the eye
• Tactile contrast customers can feel
• Emphasizes logos, headlines, and key imagery
• Creates a premium look without changing flyer size
• Ideal for high-impact, brand-forward marketing

Common Uses for Spot Gloss Flyers

• Luxury brand promotions and announcements
• High-end event marketing and invitations
• Product launches and limited releases
• Real estate and architectural marketing
• Trade shows, conferences, and premium handouts
• Retail promotions where standing out matters

Important Design Considerations

• Spot UV / spot gloss elements must be supplied as a separate layer in the artwork.
• Fine lines and very small text are not recommended for spot gloss coating.
• Strong contrast between coated and uncoated areas produces the best results.
• Spot gloss is not recommended on uncoated paper stocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is spot gloss the same as spot UV?

Yes. “Spot gloss” is a common term for spot UV coating. Both refer to a high-gloss finish applied only to selected areas of the printed piece.

Can spot gloss be applied to both sides of a flyer?

Yes. Spot gloss can be applied to one or both sides, depending on the design and stock selection.

Does spot UV make flyers thicker?

Spot UV adds texture and shine but does not significantly change the thickness of the flyer.

Need help preparing spot UV or spot gloss artwork? Let us know which elements you want to highlight, and we’ll help you choose the right stock and layout for the best possible result.