Wednesday, May 25, 2011

How paper stock can critically affect the color of your printed product

Why isn't the color turning out like I expected?

The first reaction might be to point the finger in the direction of the designer.

In one instance they’re absolutely correct to place blame upon the designer, because chances are they haven’t been educated how different paper stocks produce different tones from exactly the same color of ink. Graphic designers, amongst many other professions, take on the role of teacher to give their client an understanding of critical factors such as this one.

Color control is important even when color ink isn’t used. A black ink can appear to contain color when printed on a color stock.

Remember, the grade, grain and color of paper used affects the color of the ink.

Also, the light source under which you’re looking at the printed product can dramatically affect the color tone. It reminds me of how great I can look in an outfit in a store's specially lighted mirrors and then when I get it home, it appears I've bought something hideous.

If you select a color from a color swatch book and ask 100 printers to print it, you could well get 100 different tones.

I always recommend a printed proof before signing-off on your print job. Make it a hard copy, which should usually be included in the price of the project. A PDF proof will not show you the results of how your color prints.

Have you always been happy with the color of your print material?

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