V

varnish - Thin, protective coating applied to a printed sheet of paper for protection or improved appearance.

vehicle - The liquid part of an ink that gives it flow, enabling it to be applied to a surface.

vellum - Term usually applied to a paper finish that exhibits a toothy surface which is very similar to eggshell or antique finishes. A vellum finish is relatively absorbent to provide good ink penetration.

vellum paper - Very strong, good quality, cream colored or natural paper made to impersonate calfskin parchment. Also, the term is often applied to the finish of paper rather than a grade of paper. Stationery is often referred to as vellum. Also, tracing paper used by architects and artists.

velox - A black and white print for proofing or for display.

vignette - Halftone whose background gradually fades away to blend with the surface of the paper.

virgin stock - New, unused wood pulp.

virkotyping - Another name for thermography or raised printing.

viscosity - Broad term that encompasses the properties of tack and flow as applied to inks.