Colour Label Printing FAQ

Following are some guidelines to assist you in understanding the printing processes we utilise and how colour finishes are achieved.

1. PMS OR SPOT COLOURS
The Pantone Matching System (PMS) is a colour system that acts as a guide only for colour matching.  PMS books are printed offset (lithographic) and clearly state in the introduction that the colours indicated would only be achieved using this print process on the same papers used in the book.  Variables to colour accuracy include: the printing process used, material being printed, ink density, the age of the PMS book (replace every 12 months), and most importantly, viewing conditions. For company logos where colour consistency is critical a PMS colour would be chosen. Spot Colours are usually chosen as an option for labels where only 1-3 colours are chosen. Spot colours are often chosen in addition to 4 colour process to highlight consistency or linkages across a range of styles.

Digital Proofs - When reviewing our proofs please be aware that they are provided as digital proofs only and all digital proofs (particularly when viewed on a computer screen) are representational only. Colours vary from screen to screen and a PMS book should always be consulted to confirm the actual colour that will be matched during the printing process.

Viewing colours under different lighting systems is an important factor in colour matching.  Lighting in offices, workplaces and under natural light can all affect the accuracy of colours.  Technically, colours should be matched by the manufacturer in a light booth with a 'natural' fluorescent light source, with the customer or end user using the same source.  This may not be practical in all situations but may affect the colour matching expectations of a client.

2. FULL COLOUR / FOUR COLOUR PROCESS
Most full colour printing is generated from electronic files and is viewed on-screen or via a hard copy digital print-out.  These print-outs are not a true indication of the finished result and can only be used as a guide.  The same restrictions with PMS colour matching apply and the attempt to print spot PMS colours using CMYK is not normally successful. Different printing processes will deliver varying resolutions which again will impact on the final result.

4 Colour Process (CMYK)
CMYK is the abbreviation for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black: the colours used when printing process colour, often referred to as four colour process. These are special pigment colours of ink that are very transparent. CMYK is used where a photo realistic look and many colours are required. The blending of these 4 colours in varying proportions can generate the effect of many other colours. Exact colour matching to Pantone colours is not guaranteed as some of the Pantone colours fall within the CMYK colour range.

3. DIGITAL PRINT - All digital printing is done using 4 colour process (CMYK). Digital Print is based on 300dpi resolution and is not suitable for all applications or artwork. Where necessary a trial or sample should be printed for approval.

4. PREPARATION

Plates - Press Printing is achieved by using printing plates made of a flexible material with the image impression formed on it. This is then coated with ink and laid on the face stock to create an image. When undertaking a job for the first time there is a requirement to purchase the plates. Where there are multiple styles, you can look to minimize the cost of preparation (or plates) by having 'common plates'. This requires the information on that particular plate to be exactly as it is on other plates.

Dies - A die is the cutting tool that cuts out the shape of the label on the face stock. Die sizes vary depending on your requirements and Trade Labels have an extensive range of standard die sizes. If you are flexible with the size you may be able to use an existing die size otherwise a new die may be required to be purchased.