A magnetic field is applied to planarize magnetic pigment flakes relative to a surface. Pigment flakes, such as optically variable pigment flakes, are used in a variety of paints, inks, extrusions, powder coatings, and other forms for decorative and security applications. In many applications pigment flakes tend to align parallel to each other and to the surface to which they are applied. If the pigment flakes include a suitable magnetic structure, a magnetic field can be applied to subsequently align the flakes or enhance the alignment of the flakes in the plane of the substrate if the carrier that the flakes are dispersed in is still fluid. In some printing operations, pigment flakes that are applied parallel to the substrate are pulled out of plane when the print screen or printing die is lifted off the substrate. Application of a magnetic field can re-align pigment flakes to the plane of the substrate, enhancing the visual quality of the printed image, especially with optically variable pigments.