UV Printing 101: What You Need to Know

Updated Jun 2026

UV printing is one of the best methods for printing directly on acrylic, wood, and leatherette. The ink is cured instantly with UV light, giving vibrant colors, sharp details, and no drying time. But the key to great results is using the right materials and surface preparation.

Check Our Curated UV Printing Collection

We’ve carefully selected materials that work beautifully with UV printers: Explore our UV Printing Materials Collection

UV Printing Collection

Do you need an adhesion promoter?

In many cases: yes.

Smooth materials like clear acrylic, glossy acrylic, and coated plywood do not always allow UV ink to bond properly on their own. An adhesion promoter helps the ink stick and prevents peeling or scratching.

Use an adhesion promoter especially for:

Matte surfaces usually hold ink better, but adhesion promoter still improves durability.

Soft ink vs Medium ink vs Hard ink – what’s the difference?

Hard UV ink

  • Best for rigid materials like acrylic, wood, and hard plastics
  • Very scratch resistant
  • Perfect for signs, tags, keychains, and business signage

Medium UV ink

  • Balanced between flexibility and durability
  • Works well on acrylic, coated wood, and acrylic-finish plywood
  • Less likely to crack than hard ink

Soft UV ink

  • Flexible and slightly rubbery
  • Ideal for leatherette or bendable materials
  • Reduces cracking when the material flexes

Pro tip: On clear materials like acrylic sheets, try printing your colors first, then white, so the final image looks like it’s behind the glass (see product)

UV Printing Materials That Work Best

The easiest materials for beginners are:

Bonus: Clear Cast Acrylic Blocks are perfect for UV printing. Mask the edges with tape, print a mirrored image on the back (color first, then white), and enjoy your free-standing shelf sign. You can also print or engrave the front for extra depth.

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