This Month's Topic: Specifying Spot Colors

Color is perhaps the most subjective element of printing and graphic design; what looks great to one person may look much less so to another. However, the subjective nature of color isn’t all in the eye. There are mechanical limitations inherent in the use of inks and printing presses that make consistent color reproduction a challenge.

This is particularly important for spot color reproduction, as these areas must closely match on every printed piece. There are two ways to create spot color matches: Process builds and PMS colors. Let’s explore both.

PMS vs. Process Builds
Spot color matches can be created using the four process inks (cyan, magenta, yellow and black), also known as a “process build”. A process build is an easy and effective way to create a color match, as no extra printing units or press runs are required. However, color matching is not always exact; color differences may be noticeable between a reprint and the initial print run, for example, as minute differences in ink saturation are often beyond the control of the press operator.

Specifying a PMS color eliminates this subjectivity, allowing you to feel confident that your selected color will reproduce accurately every time. PMS stands for “Pantone Matching System”, a trademarked color swatch that uses specialized ink formulas to reproduce these exact colors. The use of PMS colors is particularly important for corporate logos and other color-critical, brand-sensitive applications. A PMS color is the surest way to maintain color consistency no matter how it is reproduced.

Here are a few planning tips to consider when using PMS colors:

Match Ink to Paper – The Pantone Matching System includes three ink formulas for each PMS color – one each for coated, uncoated and matte paper surfaces. Be sure to specify the proper formula for your paper type when preparing job instructions for IGI, as the reproduced color may not be a true match if the ink formula does not match the paper surface.

Proofing Metallic/Florescent Colors – There are many metallic and florescent PMS ink formulas available, which can add desirable effects to your book covers and other applications. Keep in mind that these colors can be difficult to proof, as hard proofing systems don’t make use of metallic and florescent inks. In addition, florsecent ink formulas are greatly affected by UV light, which makes them less desirable for applications such as outdoor displays and window signs.

The IGI Publishing Solution
Let IGI Publishing’s color management experts help you choose color solutions that best meet your project’s needs. Our printing and publishing staff have years of experience working with color and can steer you in the right direction. From layout and typesetting to printing, binding and beyond, consider IGI Publishing your single publishing resource.