How to prepare files for UV GEL printing of metallized, transparent, and mass-colored film labels
Project sizes
Prepare your design in the ordered format plus 2 mm bleed on each side, as well as a separately prepared cutting line.
Font size
The recommended minimum font size is 6pt. If you need to use smaller fonts, use the calculator Folie druk UV
CMYK printing (UV GEL)
In UV GEL printing, CMYK colors are cured with UV light, which provides very high sharpness and saturation. However, you should take into account the influence of the substrate on color perception:
- Transparent film: CMYK printing without white underprint will be partially transparent – colors "pass through" the background and take on the color of the surface to which the label is applied.
- Silver metallized film: the substrate affects the final appearance of the colors – the metallic base can give a "gloss" effect, shade changes, and metallic enhancement.
- For mass-colored films, we do not recommend using only CMYK printing. CMYK colors lose saturation and contrast, and the final effect is strongly dependent on the color of the film. The best results are achieved by using Only white or Only black printing, as well as White + CMYK, which ensures proper coverage, legibility, and control over the final visual effect. This solution allows you to fully utilize the color of the substrate as a design element while maintaining high contrast and print aesthetics.
To achieve better coverage and saturated colors, it is recommended to use a white underprint under selected graphic elements.
Black solid
The best black effect is achieved by using 100% K
UV GEL printing: white underprint (White)
UV GEL printing in white or white + CMYK requires detailed file preparation according to the guidelines. Dodatkowy kolor Biały w druku UV Gel
Special notes for white underprint
Small elements and fonts: with small fonts or details, visible misregistration may occur.
Misregistration: take special care with designs requiring precise alignment of the white and CMYK layers.
Design recommendation: for thin outlines and fine details, avoid situations where the white underprint perfectly "reaches" the edge of the CMYK element (risk of visible misregistration). It is better to use a safe margin / intentional simplifications.
Designing the cutting / die-cutting line
The cutting line should meet the following requirements:
- be a closed curve in 100% K (black),
- where possible, use straight lines instead of curves – this will shorten the plotter's working time,
- avoid unnecessary anchor points – too many control points can slow down the cutting process,
- die-cutting lines should be saved in a separate file or on a separate page,
- the start and end of the cut should be on a straight line, not on a curve – this improves cutting precision.
Note
If the label shape is too complex, the final product may differ slightly from the design (slight rounding).
Job preparation
You can find the remaining rules for proper file preparation in the Help section.
Useful links
Dodatkowy Kolor Biały w druku UV Gel
