FAQ
What is the difference between RGB and CMYK color spaces?
Practically all monitors operate in the RGB color space. This is a color palette created by mixing three different light beams – red, green, and blue (Red, Green, Blue). When all colors are combined, we obtain white. The default color of a monitor is black, so to achieve other colors, we must mix colors from the RGB space. CMYK is a set of colors used in printing processes – Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and blacK. CMYK inks are combined not by mixing but by layering, which means the final color can have coverage from 0 to 400%. In this case, combining colors results in a darker hue. Interestingly, setting 100% coverage with black ink (K) does not create the darkest possible black. To achieve a "true" black, additional colors from the CMYK model must be added – the best effect is achieved with the following values: 60% C, 40% M, 40% Y, and 100% K.
The image on a monitor using the RGB color palette is more vivid and has greater color depth. This is also related to the fact that the monitor emits light while paper absorbs it. The RGB color space has a wider range of colors than CMYK. Problems associated with converting between CMYK and RGB color spaces arise from the fact that the ranges of color scales forming each do not overlap. As a result, we not only modify but also lose some information about the color.
"Refinement techniques – what is the process of lacquering?"
UV varnish protects the print from abrasion and extends the product's lifespan. Glossy varnish enhances colors and increases contrast, while matte varnish reduces glare, thereby improving the readability of prints. Varnishing increases the rigidity of the paper, which is why substrates with lower grammage are also used for finishing. Currently, selective varnishing is becoming very popular, involving the application of varnish only to selected elements of the printed area, in order to create an unusual graphic design. With selective varnishing, we can highlight individual graphic elements more and draw the audience's attention to them. In addition to glossy and matte varnishes, we can also opt for selective varnishing with the addition of various pigments, such as gold, metallic, pearlescent, or interference.
Selective varnishing can be used together with lamination - glossy varnish on matte foil or matte varnish on glossy foil. The foil is applied to the entire sheet, and then we apply varnish to selected areas. This finish creates a very attractive contrast between matte and glossy areas. The overall effect is very elegant, and the elements we care about are properly highlighted.
Finishing techniques – what does lamination involve?
- Gloss laminate is characterized by a high shine and great durability. Its additional advantage is enhancing color saturation, which makes the colors appear more vibrant due to the finishing.
- Matte laminate is known for its excellent reduction of light reflections. It is particularly recommended for laminating works where the readability of the graphics is a priority.
- Soft touch laminate stands out primarily due to its texture - it is soft and matte, resembling velvet to the touch. Additionally, it has a higher resistance to scratches. It is used for enhancing business cards, invitations, greeting cards, catalogs, or packaging to give them an impression of elegance and uniqueness.
Refinement techniques – stamping
Embossing is one of the oldest methods of enhancing print. It involves pressing a specific pattern, such as a logo or another decorative graphic element, onto paper or cardboard by compressing it with a die. There are three types of embossing:
- raised embossing - allows for the creation of raised effects, where the embossed element is elevated above the substrate (upward embossing)
- debossing - the embossed element is pressed into the substrate being enhanced (downward embossing)
- blind embossing - involves pressing the pattern itself into the substrate without ink (downward embossing), which becomes visible due to the play of light and shadow. As a result of this embossing, grooves resembling bas-reliefs are created on the enhanced substrate.
What is Hot-stamping?
Hot stamping involves covering parts of a print with a special foil, giving them a characteristic metallic, silver, or gold sheen. The hot stamping foil is transferred onto a sheet under high temperature using special dies. Hot stamping enhances the attractiveness of printed products, providing an impression of richness and elegance. It is used for decorating invitations, packaging, labels, book covers, business cards, and vouchers of exclusive significance.
Where do the color differences between what is seen on the monitor and the printout come from?
The differences in colors between the design displayed on the monitor and the prints result from several factors. The first is the fact that graphic designs are viewed on a monitor, which emits light, while prints are presented to us on paper, which absorbs light. Therefore, the image on the screen is sharper and has greater color depth. The printing effect also largely depends on the color of the substrate (which is not always pure white) and its level of absorption. The same image will look different on newsprint than on thick glossy paper.
However, the main reason for the color differences between the design and the print is the use of different color spaces. Screens display colors from the RGB palette, while all printing devices operate in the CMYK color space. The RGB space has a wider range of colors than CMYK. On the other hand, some shades of yellow or blue look significantly better in print than what we see on the monitor. Additionally, each of us has a different monitor with different settings, and the image always takes on the settings of the screen on which it is displayed.
How to prepare files for printing?
Allowed file extensions: .pdf, .psd, .jpg, .ai, .tiff, .eps
Basic rules:
All colors should be converted to the CMYK color space. Project fonts should be converted to outlines. If the text is black, it should be at 100% K (K - black, 100% black), while if it is gray, it should range from 1% to 99% K. Bleeds should be 3 mm on each side. Graphics should be at least 2 mm away from the cut line. If the final product will be die-cut, the die line should be applied as a vector line in 100% of any Pantone color with overprint applied. All bitmaps should be at a minimum resolution of 300 DPI and in the CMYK color profile. This specification helps avoid printing issues and makes it easier for graphic designers, who know how to prepare files so that prints best reflect the graphic design.
Can I commission a graphic design project?
Can I commission a graphic design project?
Yes, just send us an email at: sklep@fortis.net.pl Our graphic designers have extensive experience in designing all kinds of advertising materials. We approach each project individually. The graphic layout is created to meet the specific needs of a particular solution, reflecting the nature of the field we are dealing with.
Custom products. Can I order a product that is not in the offer?
Of course! We take pride in our great flexibility when it comes to orders. Contact us. For us, nothing is impossible.
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