The Art of Color Matching for Large Format Printing
When it comes to large format printing, color matching is an important part of the process. It requires careful attention to detail and a good eye to ensure that the colors in the printed project match the desired outcome. Color matching for large format printing is more than just applying the right color of ink to the paper. A good color match requires understanding the different components of color, such as hue, value, and saturation. AlphaGraphics Sunnyvale offers wonderful print marketing services for area businesses, including large format printing. Learn more below, and contact our local print shop today!
The Lingo
Hue is the name of a color. It is the most obvious component of color and the most easily recognizable. Value is the lightness or darkness of a color. It is determined by the amount of light or dark pigments in the color. Saturation is the intensity of a color. It is determined by the amount of pigment present in a color.
The Color Palette
In order to make sure that the colors in your large format prints match the desired outcome, you must first select the correct color palette. A color palette is a collection of colors that can be used to create a cohesive design. It is important to select a color palette that will work well with the materials and printing process you will be using for the project. Of course, you want to remain true to your brand colors, too. Even just a subtle difference in color of your brand on printed projects can make a difference. Make sure all of the colors of your large format printing work together as a whole.
The Importance of Ink
Once you have selected the right color palette, the next step is to determine the right ink for the large format project. This is done by using a color wheel. The wheel is composed of a series of concentric circles that represent the different hues of color. By matching the hue of the desired color to the wheel, it is possible to determine the right ink to use. Here at AlphaGraphics Sunnyvale, our team and printers do all of this for you. You can rest assured that your large format printing project, be it a sign, poster, or banner, will look amazing once completed.
Color Management System
Once the right ink is determined, the next step is to calibrate the machine to ensure that the colors in the print will match the desired outcome. This is done by using a color management system. This system allows the large format printer to adjust the ink, paper, and other variables to ensure that the colors come out as close to the desired outcome as possible.
The Final Result
Finally, it is important to test the large format printed project to ensure that the colors match the desired outcome. This is done by comparing the printed project to a reference sample. If the colors in the printed project are not matching the reference sample, adjustments must be made to the color palette, ink, and other variables to ensure the desired outcome is achieved. Here at AlphaGraphics Sunnyvale, we ensure you are 100% satisfied with the look of your large format project and that the colors, design, and messaging are exactly how you want it to be. We work closely with our customers to ensure all requirements are met. Get in touch with us today!
CALL OUR LOCAL PRINT SHOP TODAY
Color matching for large format printing is a complex process, but one that our team has mastered. We understand that our clients choose us based on our fantastic print project results. For your large format print project, we ensure a high-quality sign, poster, or retractable banner you'll love. Contact AlphaGraphics Sunnyvale to get started today!