solid areas of color disclaimer
We often ask clients to read this because their design contains a sizable area of ink coverage. While this can be accomplished, there are some noteworthy variations inherent to letterpress printing. Please read the following and discuss any concerns with us.
1. SOLID AREAS OF COLOR ARE NOT IDEAL FOR LETTERPRESS
Solid ink color is difficult to control and there will be some color variation throughout the run. Some pieces may have darker ink density, some may have lighter density. We keep a sharp eye on consistency while printing, but be aware that ink on press is added and controlled manually.
2. SOLID AREA MAY APPEAR “SALTY”
It may be necessary to print with less ink density in solid areas of ink in order to keep fine details in your artwork crisp. We call the resulting mottled ink appearance “salty.” Depending on the color you have specified in combination with the paper, there may be more or less saltiness in the final printed pieces. Darker colors on a toothy cotton stock demonstrate the most salty appearance and light colors on a smooth stock demonstrate a less salty appearance.
3. LARGE SOLID AREAS DO NOT OFFER IMPRESSION
Solid areas of color or color floods do not generally make use of the sculptural impression possible with letterpress printing. Text, line work and pattern work represent ideal artwork while large graphic elements or text reversing out of solid areas do not. Knocked out areas will not create much, if any, noticeable impression into the paper.
4. LARGE AREAS OF IMPRESSION CAUSE SHEET DISTORTION
Letterpress with heavy impression is physically altering the thickness of paper. With large areas of artwork under heavy impression, the sheet may want to bubble or curl. We sometimes call this the “potato chip” effect. The more artwork area on a press sheet, the less likely it is that the final printed piece will lay completely flat.
If you decide to proceed with your current design, we will require written confirmation (via email) that you have received and read the above disclaimer and will accept the final product knowing that it has been letterpress printed and produced as expertly as possible.