Common color matching questions:

1. Why is my color printout not matching my computer screen colors?

2. My print job does not match my screen or color printouts. How come?

 

First, keep in mind:

• Computer screens are typically red, green, blue (RGB)

• Office printers are typically cyan, magenta, yellow, black (CMYK)

 

 

On top of that, each device has different and variables:

• Screen variables: age, brand, settings, capabilities

• Office printer variables: age, settings, capabilities, ink levels

 

 

In addition, professional printing has distinct differences and variables:

• There are several different print methods: 4-color process (CMYK), digital (fancy color laser), spot color (Pantone, aka PMS), 5 color job (a mix of 4-color process and spot color)

• Professional print variables: presspersons experience, and attention to detail (maintaining ink levels, tight ink registration)

 

 

Finally, color hinges on paper type:

• Variables that affect ink color are the paper: brand, thickness, texture, color (including white paper — there are zillion shades of white paper), coating, lighting conditions, quality, ink absorbency

 

 

Bottom line, printing is still an art and not a science:

• If your brand requires near-exact color matching, ask your graphic designer to provide color swatches before your job is printed

• Your designer may also recommend ordering a match-print proof from the printer

 

Karen Steenekamp
Graphic Designer
OpenDesignInc.com

Serving Boulder County and Beyond Since 1987