This page will discuss color issues that commonly arise during print production. We will recommend a few best practices when designing to keep your colors printing perfectly as well as explain why there is even color issues to begin with.

What is color matching?
Generally speaking, color matching is the process of converting a color from one color system to another. In print color matching usually occurs when converting RGB colors into CMYK or Pantone® spot colors to CMYK process.

What difference does it make?
While creating a business card design the use of photos and backgrounds might include images that are created in RGB (Red, Green & Blue). When these images are converted to CMYK “color shift” can happen. Typically when RGB images are converted to CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow & black) the result is a darker image. Spot color conversion to CMYK also can result in darker colors. When creating a business card design, as a best practice we recommend creating your final print files in PDF format and using the color conversion settings to convert to CMYK.

Why does my business card design look different on my screen?
Computer screens are notorious for displaying images much brighter than they print. This is because monitors use RGB color which has a much higher gamut or higher level of reproducible color. As a best practice it is recommended to always print your design on a CMYK calibrated printer before sending it in for commercial print production. We offer hard copy digital proofs for CMYK print orders that are printed on a fully calibrated CMYK postscript printer for near perfect accuracy.

Does paper affect final print colors?
The short answer is yes. Gloss papers tend to offer a little brighter color while matte papers tend to dull down colors. UV Coating will add brightness as well. If  you have chosen a specific color of paper stock then the your final print results will most likely vary. Ink is transparent, so paper color will show through with most medium to light colors.

We try our best to make our customers aware of any color shift that may happen with their particular business card design. However we can not ALWAYS guarantee 100% color accuracy. If we notice a significant color shift we will, at no charge, send you a hard copy proof by traditional USPS mail. If you would like to upgrade to express shipping that can be arranged.