methods and aqueous surface coating compositions are provided for producing a high - resolution ink - jet ink printable coating layer on a surface , the composition comprising at least one polymer selected from a water soluble polymer and a water - emulsifiable polymer , wherein the at least one polymer is present in a concentration of up to 10 % by weight and at least one surfactant comprising a long hydrophobic moiety , wherein the at least one surfactant is present in a concentration of up to 10 % by weight . the high - resolution ink - jet ink printable coating layer is characterized by its ability to be removed by spraying with water , and yet having excellent resistance to heat and acid , when coated with cured legend ink .