When selecting the Dual Raised option on our Velvet stock, you must provide two separate mask files. These files indicate where each of the two finishes will be applied to your print project. The mask files should not intersect or register exactly with each other.
What is a Mask File?
The mask file indicates where you want to apply the Raised Foil and Raised Spot UV finishes to your cards. It is separate from your artwork files.
Creating a Mask for Your Dual Raised Project
In addition to your main artwork files, you’ll need to create two vector mask files- one for each raised finish. The easiest way to create these masks is to start with your print file, then:
Remove all elements that should not have the first Raised Foil or Raised Spot UV option applied.
Change the color of all remaining elements receiving Raised Option 1 to 100% black (C0 M0 Y0 K100). Your mask files cannot contain other colors.
Save this file separately from your print files with a name that indicates clearly which raised option the mask is to be used for. This will help ensure you upload it to the correct file slot when placing your order. Repeat this process to create your mask for Raised Option 2.
Alternatively, you can create a new file with the exact dimensions of your artwork. Then position each raised element in the spot where you’d like it to appear when laid over your artwork, and fill these elements with 100% black (C0 M0 Y0 K100). Remember, you must have a separate mask file to indicate each of the two raised options chosen.
Best Practices for Mask Files
Alignment is the most critical part of the mask-creation process. For proper application:
Ensure the size of your artwork and mask files match exactly, and that all shared elements are aligned.
Avoid using delicate graphics or thin, small fonts. Raised Foil and Raised Spot UV finishes differ from ink printing, and small text or detailed artwork can fill in and look messy. The minimum recommended font size is 10pt for regular fonts and 12pt for bold or script fonts, depending on the font. Line widths should be no less than 0.5pt to avoid gapping in the coverage.
Mask files must be submitted in vector format, which can be created in a program such as Adobe Illustrator or InDesign.
Do not include special effects such as gradients, drop shadows, or other non-solid elements in your mask. Only use 100% black (C0 M0 Y0 K100) to indicate areas for raised finishes.
Coverage Limits
The maximum total coverage area for both Raised Options combined is 30%. This can increase to 50% only if the area is a pattern. Avoid patterns with small gaps as they will fill in over time.
Neither Raised Option should have a solid area larger than 1” x 1”. This may result in an uneven or "wavy" effect on the raised finishes and can cause the cards to stick together when printed.
Important Notes
The foil can shift up to 1/16-inch in any direction during the application. Please ensure there is at least a 1/16-inch gap between the Foil masks and the artwork and between the Foil and Spot UV masks to allow for this. Keep this in mind when designing your artwork and mask files.
Dual Raised finish options are currently available as custom orders. Through our Custom Product Request Form, you can request business cards, postcards, hang tags, or greeting cards.