Invitation Design Print Production & Finishing Techniques 2

Question 1

What is 'UV coating' used for on printed invitations?

Accepted Answer

A glossy, protective layer applied to specific areas to create visual and tactile contrast

Answer

Spot UV coating applies a shiny, raised varnish to selected design elements, making them pop visually against a matte background.

Question 2

What is 'thermography' as a cost-effective alternative to engraving on invitations?

Accepted Answer

A printing process using heat-reactive powder to create raised, shiny text

Answer

Thermography uses a special powder fused under heat to create raised, shiny text that mimics the look of engraving at a lower cost.

Question 3

What does 'crop marks' (trim marks) indicate on an invitation design file?

Accepted Answer

The exact lines where the paper will be cut after printing

Answer

Crop marks are small lines outside the bleed area showing the printer exactly where to trim the finished cards.

Question 4

What is 'vellum' commonly used for in invitation suites?

Accepted Answer

A translucent overlay wrap or belly band that adds a layered, elegant effect

Answer

Vellum paper is translucent and often wrapped around the invitation or layered on top to create a soft, romantic layering effect.

Question 5

What is 'ganging' in commercial invitation printing?

Accepted Answer

Printing multiple different jobs together on one large sheet to reduce cost

Answer

Ganging groups multiple print jobs on a single press sheet so they share setup costs, making short-run invitations more affordable.

Invitation Design Practice Test