Modern Publishing 2026 - User contributions [en]

Obscenity Law

2026-04-06T12:26:53Z

Gabby: Added to the glossary.

[[File:Balanced justice scale silhouette (crossed out), small.png|thumb|The scales of justice decide appropriateness and morality. <ref>Geld, Dane. “File: Balanced Justice Scale Silhouette, Small.Svg.” ''Wikimedia Commons'', 12 Sept. 2024, commons.[[wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Balanced_justice_scale_silhouette,_small.svg.]]</ref>]]

== Description ==
Obscenity laws are regulations that can be used to determine whether subject matter is inappropriate and whether it should be removed or subject to strict circulation rules. Obscenity Laws have led to many works of literature being confiscated, burned, or banned in certain regions of the world. These laws were established through three different Supreme Court cases that determined certain topics, like pornography, are not protected under the First Amendment of the Constitution. <ref>''Obscenity''. Criminal Division. (2023, August 11). https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-ceos/obscenity</ref>

The term "obscene" is nuanced. Each person has a different opinion on what is considered obscene. For the most part, obscene is defined as something disturbing, extremely graphic, or violent. Courts decide whether a book can be banned under the Obscenity Laws, so that the decision can vary depending on the jury's personal opinions or the community's investment in the literature. While the Miller Test serves as a basic guideline, it is applied within the current community standards, so the status of the literature can change with the community.<ref name=":1">Lee, S. (2025, May 28). ''Understanding obscenity laws in literature''. Number Analytics // Super Easy Data analysis tool for Research. https://www.numberanalytics.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-obscenity-laws-in-literature</ref>

== Standards ==
One community will have different values compared to a neighboring area. This is why literature can be banned in one nation and welcomed openly in another. Typically, there are four regions with community standards: Urban, Conservative, Rural, and Liberal. These are the most common kinds of communities, but an area can fall outside these categories or decide against their norms. <ref name=":1" />

An urban area will focus on artistic and cultural diversity, allowing more acceptance for explicit content. Conservative areas are restrictive and focus on moral and social norms. Rural communities lean on the conservative side, with an emphasis on social norms and traditional values. A liberal community will focus on artistic expression and personal freedoms, making it more permissive towards explicit content. <ref name=":1" />
== Cases ==

The ''Roth v. United States'' case of 1957 led to the Roth test, which was the predecessor of the Miller Test. The Roth test established that a work was obscene if its dominant theme correlated to prurient interest, and if the contemporary community agreed on it. Prurient interest would be any work with an inappropriate or excessive amount of sexual content. The community had the final say on whether something passed or failed the Roth Test. <ref name=":0">Erica. (2025, March 11). ''Our law hub''. Our Law Hub. https://www.ourlawhub.com/archives/3769</ref>

The 1973 U.S. Supreme Court case ''Miller v. California'' was a turning point for deciding whether or not a piece of literature should be banned. The Courts created the Miller Test to act as a framework for detecting obscenity in literature. This test looks at the literature as a whole and decides if the book has prurient interest, has offensive sexual conduct, and if it lacks scientific, artistic, literary, or political value. This framework creates guidelines for courts and communities to follow when deeming literature too obscene to be publicly distributed. It is still used in the U.S. today. <ref name=":0" />

== Complications with these laws ==
The law is in place to uphold a community's values while not violating the First Amendment right to free speech and expression. While there are guidelines for this law, community standards determine whether to label literature as obscene. Community standards change constantly, which in turn would alter what literature is banned in an area. Travelers and people ordering literature online would need to ensure that their area allows them to bring literature into it. You can live in a town that allows that book to be sold and distributed, but the next town over might have it banned altogether. The Internet has become a large challenge for the Obscenity Law since it cannot be regulated so easily. Obscene material is spread constantly online, with the government struggling to track who is spreading this information and stop them. <ref>''What is legally obscene? A complete guide to U.S. obscenity law [US law explained]''. US Law Explained. (n.d.). https://uslawexplained.com/obscene</ref>

=== Pros of the Obscenity Law ===
The Obscenity Law protects vulnerable groups like children from being exposed to inappropriate material that could affect their physical and mental well-being. Having strict rules about what can and cannot be published based on the community is a way to uphold the morals and values of that community. A community can change its mind about whether or not a piece of literature is considered obscene, depending on the evolution of the community and its values. This law acts as a deterrent to inappropriate behavior and the distribution of lewd material. <ref name=":0" />

=== Cons of the Obscenity Law ===
Since the community can decide whether literature falls under the obscene category, many books or pieces of literature can be wrongly banned due to prejudice against the themes or the author of the literature. Having just one inappropriate scene could condemn a piece of literature. When a book is categorized as obscene, there are roadblocks placed to make the book impossible to find, unless you are of age. By banning material talking about sexual things, it promotes the stigma that these are things to be ashamed of and never discussed. If parents are not able to discuss things like contraception and abortion with their children using literature, it can cause their kids to be uninformed about the world.<ref name=":0" />
== Sources ==
<references />
[[Category:Glossary]]

Obscenity Law

2026-04-06T12:26:06Z

Gabby: Fixing grammar.

2026-04-01T15:49:29Z

Gabby: Adding a source.

Obscenity Law

2026-04-01T15:38:11Z

Gabby: Adding paragraphs.

Obscenity Law

2026-03-30T22:02:42Z

Gabby: Adding headings.

2026-03-15T21:18:07Z

Gabby: Adding a paragraph.

== Description ==
Die cuts are special shapes or patterns created for books that are different from printed ones. They are cut into the material using special blades known as dies to create a visually appealing look and enhance the functionality of the printed material. This can be used as a tactile method to engage readers or draw attention to a specific spot or aspect of the book. Books using die cuts can leave a lasting impression on readers compared to other books due to their unique shapes. <ref name=":0">Hickey, M. (2025, August 27). ''What is die cutting in print? Creative Shapes & Custom Designs''. Media Village. <nowiki>https://www.media-village.co.uk/print/what-is-die-cutting/</nowiki></ref> <ref name=":1">Dev. (2024a, January 12). ''Seven of the most popular die cut materials used in manufacturing''. Thrust Industries. <nowiki>https://www.thrustin.com/blog/most-popular-die-cut-materials/</nowiki></ref>

=== History ===
Die-cutting started in Germany, where it was known as scraps during the early 1800s. The scraps were printed in black and white and hand colored. From the 1820s to the 1830s, embossing and the automation of the printing and embossing process helped Germany become the leading producer of scraps. Die cutting was seen as an easier way to make professional, quality work. It relied on machinery instead of the creator having to use scissors and cut it out themselves. <ref name=":2">Rinker, H. (n.d.). ''Die cuts - guide to value, Marks, history | worthpoint dictionary''. Worth Point. <nowiki>https://www.worthpoint.com/dictionary/p/books-paper-magazines/paper--type/die-cuts</nowiki></ref>

The introduction of chromolithography (a color printing technique involving the use of multi-colored stones that would not fade) helped die cutting gain acceptance in the world. These techniques were used in advertisements by printing companies. Die cutting hit its peak between 1860 and 1870, when companies used most of their efforts on die-cutting prints. <ref name=":2" />

The Industrial Revolution saw the first big use of die-cutting machinery. Shoemakers had been creating shoes and laces by hand, leading to the cuts being off. When die-cutting machines came about, this made the shoe quality and quantity better. <ref name=":3">''Die-cutting explained: Machines, Pro Techniques & Best uses''. Die-Cutting Explained: Machines, Pro Techniques & Best Uses. (2025, September 8). <nowiki>https://www.customproductpackaging.com/blog/die-cutting</nowiki></ref>

==== How it works ====
Die cutting can be made using many different materials, like rubber, paper, vinyl, leather, cardstock, and plastic. The material is then cut using a steel tool called a die. First, you create the design you want for the book using a machine. Then you press it onto the pages, cutting off the excess and maneuvering it however you like. The last step is separating the cut elements to assemble, fold, or glue them.<ref name=":0" /> <ref name=":1" />

===== Uses =====
Die cut is used for different formats: cards, albums, scrapbooks, invitations, packaging, and stickers. Die cutting has previously been used to cut the packaging to accommodate the size of an object, create equal shapes, customize edges, and add designs. Printing and publishing companies use methods like die-cutting while promoting a new release. Die-cutting make sit so they can create visually appealing art or have different props/tools to promote things to a wide audience. <ref name=":3" />

Die cutting is primarily used as a design element to create a distinctive image for viewers that makes the product memorable. These precise shapes and designs are great to use for crafting projects while saving time. Companies use die-cuts to form a specific logo or brand that consumers can associate with the company.

<ref name=":3" />

====== The three types of die cutting ======
Standard is the most common type of die cutting. This is just your run-of-the-mill basic shapes like circles, squares, rectangles, and triangles.

Custom or complex involves more skill when it comes to using a die blade. Custom or complex is when you carve or cut out intricate designs, shapes, or patterns to create a desired effect. This is typically used for artistic expression or branding.

Score and fold are used more with books, cards, and boxes. The reasoning behind this is that this method allows the user to cut and score the material to create precise folding.

== Sources ==
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<ref name=":1" />

<ref name=":2" />

<ref name=":3" /><references />
[[index.php?title=Category:Design elements]]
[[Category:Glossary]]

Die cuts

2026-03-15T14:35:35Z

Gabby: Added it to the design elements category. Added a sub-heading and more paragraphs.

Die cuts

2026-03-14T21:17:44Z

Gabby: Adding more paragraphs. Put the term in the glossary.

Die cuts

2026-03-12T21:46:42Z

Gabby: Added a paragraph.

== Description ==
Die cuts are special shapes or patterns created for books that are different from printed ones. They are cut into the material using special blades to create a visually appealing look and to help with the functionality of the printed material. This can be used as a tactile method to reach out to readers or draw attention specifically to a certain spot or aspect of the book. Die cut books can leave a lasting impression on readers compared to other books due to their unique shapes. <ref name=":0">Hickey, M. (2025, August 27). ''What is die cutting in print? Creative Shapes & Custom Designs''. Media Village. <nowiki>https://www.media-village.co.uk/print/what-is-die-cutting/</nowiki></ref>

=== How it works ===
Die cut can be made using many different materials, like rubber, paper, pressure-sensitive adhesive, fish paper, safety walk tape, and plastic. The material is then cut using a steel tool called a die. First, you create the design you want for the book. Then you press it onto the pages, cutting off the excess and maneuvering it however you like. The last step is separating the cut elements to assemble, fold, or glue them.<ref name=":0" /> <ref name=":1">Dev. (2024, January 12). ''Seven of the most popular die cut materials used in manufacturing''. Thrust Industries. <nowiki>https://www.thrustin.com/blog/most-popular-die-cut-materials/</nowiki></ref>

==== Uses ====
Die cut is used for different formats: business cards, greeting cards, invitations, packaging, folders, stickers, labels, sliders, pop-ups, pull-tabs, and other interactive marketing objects. Die cut

== Sources ==
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<ref name=":1" />
[[index.php?title=Category:Glossary]]
[[Category:Design elements]]

Manuscript

2026-03-10T15:31:32Z

Gabby: Adding a category.

[[File:Pexels-skylar-kang-6207364.jpg|thumb|''A manuscript from olden times,'' published by Skylar Kang in 2020. ]]
A manuscript is the original author's work that they send to a publisher. The manuscript is not the final published work; it still needs editing before being released to the public. Manuscripts are valuable because they are what the author originally intended for their work. Manuscripts have been used since Ancient Egypt (1571) and can be typed or handwritten. Manuscripts can be created using paper, bark, cloth, ink, pen, pencil, leaves, papyrus, and leather. Manuscripts can reveal culture and thought while serving as sources for future historians to analyze. <ref name=":0">''What is manuscript ?: National Mission for Manuscripts |''. What is Manuscript ? | National Mission for Manuscripts |. (2016). <nowiki>https://www.namami.gov.in/what-is-menuscript</nowiki></ref>

Manuscripts serve as rough drafts that need to be edited, formatted, and revised to become a book that can be published. Once this foundation is in place, the author should research which publisher to use, potential design ideas, and which media or marketing outlets to use. While a manuscript will be edited and changed by editors and the publishers, a manuscript is commonly defined as the legible, fully written work ready to be evaluated. <ref name=":1">Randall, E. (2025, November 24). ''What is a book manuscript? definition, examples, and what happens next''. Top 10 Publishers. <nowiki>https://toptenpublishers.com/what-is-a-manuscript/</nowiki></ref>

=== Things a manuscript should have ===
Manuscripts must include essential elements such as the author's name, contact information, book title, a legible font, standard margins, double-spacing, and chapters. These components help editors and publishers navigate the work. Formatting may vary by genre, with nonfiction often including references. You can also add an author's note at the end if you want to. <ref name=":1" />

==== Manuscript examples ====
The series "''Harry Potter''," known worldwide, started as draft pages by J.K. Rowling. Her manuscript led to a book series that went on to become movies and tv shows. Within her manuscript are handwritten lines and illustrations that show the reader her thought process and creativity while writing it. Rowling has also used her manuscripts to attract readers by giving out copies to early fans as collector's items and selling others to organizations. <ref name=":2">Goldrach, N. (2025, December 8). ''The Five most valuable Harry Potter books''. Sothebys.com. <nowiki>https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/the-five-most-valuable-harry-potter</nowiki></ref>

F. Scott Fitzgerald's book "''The Great Gatsby''" is read in many high schools. The manuscript is currently being held at the Princeton University Library for preservation and access to the public. Within the manuscript, there are side notes, scratched-out sentences, and passages that differ from the final version. People interested in book publishing can also look at manuscripts like Fitzgerald's and see that even writers who went on to create revolutionary books started with a rough sketch that had many mistakes. <ref name=":1" />

===== Tips for a manuscript =====
Each manuscript is unique, so seek feedback from fellow writers. Maintain consistent formatting for smoother editing and always keep multiple backups. You never know when something could get lost or destroyed. When approaching editors, prepare a proposal to attract their interest. Give them a reason to want to look at your work and help you. <ref name=":1" /> <ref name=":3">Penguin Random House. (2024, April 15). ''How can I get published?: Penguin random house''. PenguinRandomhouse.com. <nowiki>https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/articles/how-can-i-get-published/</nowiki></ref>

Use tools like Microsoft Word for formatting and Google Docs for collaboration. Technology is a big part of our society, so finding ways to integrate it into your manuscripts and writing process can be very beneficial for productivity and getting your book published more quickly. Remember, editing is a process; don’t get stuck on minor details. A manuscript can never be perfect, and that is fine. Manuscripts are rough drafts that will be tweaked, but you cannot nitpick details until the story is unrecognizable to the author. <ref name=":1" /> <ref name=":3" />

====== From manuscript to published book ======
Once you have made a manuscript, you should reread it yourself to look for errors in storyline progression, repetition, and anything that does not feel like it fits to drive the story. Then you give the manuscript to beta readers, who are meant to track the pacing of the story, reading accessibility, and anything that is confusing or should be taken out. Once the beta readers clear your manuscript, you will have a professional editor take over. The editor takes care of proofreading and editing lines and tweaking the development of the book. <ref name=":1" />

From this point, the structure of the book has been established. Now we have someone working on the graphic designs and the typesetting. They figure out what designs relate to the book and ensure that the interior layout is neat and digestible for readers. The designers are thinking about what elements of the book they should use as a visual identity to associate the book with, while typesetters are making sure that the interior of the book is appealing to readers. The last step is choosing between self-publishing and finding a publisher. Self-publishing is cheaper, and you have full control of the creative process, but it can be harder to market. Publishers take care of marketing and have experience publishing to readers. <ref name=":1" /> <ref name=":3" />

== Sources ==
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<ref name=":1" />

<ref name=":2" />

<ref name=":3" />

<ref>Kang, S. (2020). ''Ancient book photos, download the Best Free Ancient Book Stock Photos & HD Images''. Pexels. <nowiki>https://www.pexels.com/search/ancient%20book/</nowiki></ref>
<references />
[[index.php?title=Category:Glossary]]
[[Category:Book formats]]

Manuscript

2026-03-10T15:16:57Z

Gabby: Added to the glossary.

Die cuts

2026-03-09T12:29:54Z

Gabby: I added a definition and put it in the glossary.

Die cuts are special shapes or patterns created for books that are different from printed ones. They are cut into the material using special blades to create a visually appealing look and to help with the functionality of the printed material. Die cut is used for business cards, books, promotional materials, and packaging.
[[Category:Glossary]]

2026-03-06T20:51:35Z

Gabby: Added headings, more sources, and paragraphs.

Manuscript

2026-03-06T19:15:24Z

Gabby: Added another paragraph.

Manuscript

2026-03-04T17:40:47Z

Gabby: Adding a source.

Manuscript

2026-03-03T18:29:48Z

Gabby: Added manuscript to the glossary.

A manuscript is the original author's work that they send to a publisher. The manuscript is not the final, published work; it is a rough draft.
[[Category:Glossary]]

Manuscript

2026-03-03T18:27:23Z

Gabby: I added a definition.

A manuscript is the original author's work that they send to a publisher. The manuscript is not the final, published work; it is a rough draft.

Spot gloss

2026-02-15T18:09:40Z

Gabby: Changing some of the phrasing

== What is spot gloss? ==
Spot gloss is used as a visual element to appeal to readers by drawing attention to specific design elements. Spot gloss is made from liquid varnish that goes through a process called spot UV. Spot UV is when you use a UV light to dry a varnish coating on a printed material. Spot gloss is reflective and clear, showing the difference between matte and glossy surfaces. It helps the books stand out on a shelf. This is typically one of the last steps completed before publishing a book, including laminations. <ref name=":0" /> <ref name=":1" />

Authors should always consult the manufacturers and publishers about using spot gloss since it can affect the application process. Spot gloss can add a sharp edge to the spine or cover edges of a hardcover book if applied correctly. Authors looking to emphasize a fine line or text should know that the smaller the area, the less likely the gloss will be visible when it hardens. This takes away from the contrast between the gloss and the matte of the book. <ref name=":0">''Everything you need to know about spot UV coating''. QinPrinting. (2025, August 22). <nowiki>https://qinprinting.co.uk/spot-uv/</nowiki></ref> <ref name=":1">''(PDF) Comparison of colourimetric results obtained by spherical and spectrophotometer with directional geometry on samples with extreme UV varnish application''. ProQuest. (2023). <nowiki>https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376259420_Comparison_of_colourimetric_results_obtained_by_spherical_and_spectrophotometer_with_directional_geometry_on_samples_with_extreme_UV_varnish_application</nowiki>
</ref> <ref name=":2">''Spot UV: Book cover options: Friesens corporation''. Friesens. (2026). <nowiki>https://www.friesens.com/books/specialty-options/specialty-finishes/spotuv/</nowiki></ref>

The reflective spot gloss draws people's attention, piquing their interest. The spot gloss adds a raised, smooth texture to flat pages or covers. <ref>''Celloglas achieves regal touch with new blue.'' ProQuest. (2011). Celloglas achieves regal touch with new blue - ProQuest</ref> A spot gloss is typically used on brochures, printed materials, invitations, and business cards. This coating is made to react to UV light through photo initiators. That is what causes the varnish to harden on the book and create that added protective layer on the text or image below it. <ref name=":0" /> Before you can apply spot gloss, you should place a mask film in the spot you want to apply the gloss for precision. Spot gloss should be used sparingly along spines, jackets, and wrapped edges due to cracking. <ref name=":2" />
[[File:Image.png|thumb|This book cover has a contrast between light and dark colors. The spiral theme is shown throughout. There is spot gloss applied to the bright blue circle on the right side. This added shine attracts the attention of the reader, making them more interested in the book. This also shows how spot gloss can amplify the brightness of a color or image on a book.]]

=== Perks of using it ===
A spot gloss adds a sophisticated, 3D aesthetic with its shine. <ref name=":1" /> Publishers usually place gloss on company logos, the author's name, the title, or anywhere they want to emphasize. This coating can help the book's color from fading and can be used on a variety of materials. Once the coating hardens, it adds a layer of protection to the book, making it valuable for long-term use or storage. It is environmentally friendly and low-cost for publishers and authors. There are two specific ways to use spot gloss: highlighting text, images, designs, etc. This not only makes the selected element stand out, but it also preserves its details and colors. <ref name=":0" />

On the other hand, it can be applied to a blank surface and let it create the image. This is called Blind Spot UV. Blind Spot UV darkens the area around the gloss, showing a prominent contrast in shade. Stains can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth since the spot gloss separates them from the paper. Spot gloss can be used to highlight a specific aspect of a book that the author or publisher is particularly proud of. Spot gloss is versatile, with paints in many different colors for authors to choose from. <ref name=":0" />

UV varnish can be used to make braille, allowing blind people the opportunity to read the book. This gives the author an added demographic for their books. It is possible to apply multiple coatings of spot gloss to create an embossed texture. This is the 3D imagery that some books have. An embossed texture is a visual element that also draws in buyers. <ref name=":1" />

==== Cons of using it ====
Readers and authors must be wary, though, when using spot gloss. Since it is a coating, it is very easy to leave fingerprints or smudge it while it is drying, and the drying process takes a considerable amount of time. Books with spot gloss must be treated delicately and cleaned frequently. Spot gloss can still add more to the cost of production, which can delay publication if not taken into consideration ahead of time.

Spot gloss is meant to have a smooth finish, but it can become jagged if too many coats are applied. This means that when painting the coat, you have to make sure it is done just right, so you do not have to worry about repainting it. Each layer you add needs to be stenciled to ensure it is applied to the proper section. This delays the publication of the book and can be stressful for everyone involved. While spot gloss is somewhat flexible, it should not be placed on folded areas because, over time, it causes cracking. <ref name=":0" /> <ref name=":2" />

Spot gloss is sensitive to moisture, so it is advised against selling books with it in high-humidity areas. The humidity can warp the text, cause mold, or lead to bugs being attracted to the book. Since spot gloss emphasizes areas of a book, it has to be placed strategically. Highlighting one area of a book can draw attention to the imperfections of the rest of the book cover. The bright reflectiveness of the gloss can be disorienting in a bright room or too much if you are going for a more subtle aesthetic. <ref name=":0" />

===== Sources =====
<references />

Spot gloss

2026-02-15T18:04:27Z

Gabby: Changing some of the phrasing

== What is spot gloss? ==
Spot gloss is used as a visual element to appeal to readers by drawing attention to specific design elements. Spot gloss is made from liquid varnish that goes through a process called spot UV. Spot UV is when you use a UV light to dry a varnish coating on a printed material. Spot gloss is reflective and clear, showing the difference between matte and glossy surfaces. It helps the books stand out on a shelf. This is typically one of the last steps completed before publishing a book, including laminations. <ref name=":0" /> <ref name=":1" />

Authors should always consult the manufacturers and publishers about using spot gloss since it can affect the application process. Spot gloss can add a sharp edge to the spine or cover edges of a hardcover book if applied correctly. Authors looking to draw emphasis to a fine line or text should know that the smaller the area is, the less likely the gloss will be visible when it hardens. This takes away from the contrast between the gloss and the matte of the book. <ref name=":0">''Everything you need to know about spot UV coating''. QinPrinting. (2025, August 22). <nowiki>https://qinprinting.co.uk/spot-uv/</nowiki></ref> <ref name=":1">''(PDF) Comparison of colourimetric results obtained by spherical and spectrophotometer with directional geometry on samples with extreme UV varnish application''. ProQuest. (2023). <nowiki>https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376259420_Comparison_of_colourimetric_results_obtained_by_spherical_and_spectrophotometer_with_directional_geometry_on_samples_with_extreme_UV_varnish_application</nowiki>
</ref> <ref name=":2">''Spot UV: Book cover options: Friesens corporation''. Friesens. (2026). <nowiki>https://www.friesens.com/books/specialty-options/specialty-finishes/spotuv/</nowiki></ref>

The reflective spot gloss draws people's attention, piquing their interest. The spot gloss adds a raised, smooth texture to flat pages or covers. <ref>''Celloglas achieves regal touch with new blue.'' ProQuest. (2011). Celloglas achieves regal touch with new blue - ProQuest</ref> A spot gloss is typically used on brochures, printed materials, invitations, and business cards. This coating is made to react to UV light through photo initiators. That is what causes the varnish to harden on the book and create that added protective layer on the text or image below it. <ref name=":0" /> Before you can apply spot gloss, you should place a mask film in the spot you want to apply the gloss for precision. Spot gloss should be used sparingly along spines, jackets, and wrapped edges due to cracking. <ref name=":2" />
[[File:Image.png|thumb|This book cover has a contrast between light and dark colors. The spiral theme is shown throughout. There is spot gloss applied to the bright blue circle on the right side. This added shine attracts the attention of the reader, making them more interested in the book. This also shows how spot gloss can amplify the brightness of a color or image on a book.]]

=== Perks of using it ===
A spot gloss adds a sophisticated, 3D aesthetic with its shine. <ref name=":1" /> Publishers usually place gloss on company logos, the author's name, the title, or anywhere they want to emphasize. This coating can help the book's color from fading and can be used on a variety of materials. Once the coating hardens, it adds a layer of protection to the book, making it valuable for long-term use or storage. It is environmentally friendly and low-cost for publishers and authors. There are two specific ways to use spot gloss: highlighting text, images, designs, etc. This not only makes the selected element stand out, but it also preserves its details and colors. <ref name=":0" />

On the other hand, it can be applied to a blank surface and let it create the image. This is called Blind Spot UV. Blind Spot UV darkens the area around the gloss, showing a prominent contrast in shade. Stains can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth since the spot gloss separates them from the paper. Spot gloss can be used to highlight a specific aspect of a book that the author or publisher is particularly proud of. Spot gloss is versatile, with paints in many different colors for authors to choose from. <ref name=":0" />

UV varnish can be used to make braille, allowing blind people the opportunity to read the book. This gives the author an added demographic for their books. It is possible to apply multiple coatings of spot gloss to create an embossed texture. This is the 3D imagery that some books have. An embossed texture is a visual element that also draws in buyers. <ref name=":1" />

==== Cons of using it ====
Readers and authors must be wary, though, when using spot gloss. Since it is a coating, it is very easy to leave fingerprints or smudge it while it is drying, and the drying process takes a considerable amount of time. Books with spot gloss must be treated delicately and cleaned frequently. Spot gloss can still add more to the cost of production, which can delay publication if not taken into consideration ahead of time.

Spot gloss is meant to have a smooth finish, but it can become jagged if too many coats are applied. This means that when painting the coat, you have to make sure it is done just right, so you do not have to worry about repainting it. Each layer you add needs to be stenciled to ensure it is applied to the proper section. This delays the publication of the book and can be stressful for everyone involved. While spot gloss is somewhat flexible, it should not be placed on folded areas because, over time, it causes cracking. <ref name=":0" /> <ref name=":2" />

Spot gloss is sensitive to moisture, so it is advised against selling books with it in high-humidity areas. The humidity can warp the text, cause mold, or lead to bugs being attracted to the book. Since spot gloss emphasizes areas of a book, it has to be placed strategically. Highlighting one area of a book can draw attention to the imperfections of the rest of the book cover. The bright reflectiveness of the gloss can be disorienting in a bright room or too much if you are going for a more subtle aesthetic. <ref name=":0" />

===== Sources =====
<references />