ASK MOHAWK

PRINTING
THE
DESIGNER’S
465 Saratoga Street Cohoes, New York 12047 1 800 THE MILL mohawkconnects.com
GUIDE TO
ACHIEVING

BASICS
BRILLIANT
Mohawk is North America’s largest privately-owned RESULTS ON
manufacturer of fine papers and envelopes which are UNCOATED
preferred for commercial and digital printing, photo PAPER
specialties and high-end direct mail. Mohawk fine
papers and envelopes, include the signature brands
Mohawk Superfine® and Strathmore,® as well as
proprietary treatments Inxwell® and i-Tone.® With a
culture of innovation, Mohawk’s business model now
extends beyond paper manufacturing into new areas of
growth, including digital substrates and web-based tools,
which connect designers and printers to new markets. 

FPO As a leader in environmentally and socially responsible

(Sandy to explore business practices, Mohawk was the first U.S.

manufacturer of commercial printing papers to match
creating with a 100% of its electricity with wind power renewable

true screen)
energy credits and the first U.S. premium paper mill
to shift toward carbon neutral production. Most of
Mohawk’s portfolio of recycled papers is certified by
Green Seal and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Mohawk is a fourth-generation, family-owned and

operated business based in Cohoes, New York, with
global sales and operations located throughout North
America, Europe and Asia. For more information,
please visit www.mohawkconnects.com.

76-703820014
July 2015
 FPO
(Sandy to explore
creating with a
true screen)
ASK MOHAWK

Innovations in papermaking,
printing and ink technologies
have made it possible to
deliver beautifully crisp
printed images with the rich
feel of uncoated paper.
Ever-evolving paper and print technology makes it possible to use
premium uncoated papers in exciting new ways. The natural surface of
these papers is a perfect background for four-color process printing. But
it is essential to remember that uncoated papers are absorbent, so inks,
varnishes and coatings perform differently than on coated papers.
Your client has high expectations. Your printer has broad technical
expertise. And you, the designer, are the conduit to bring these two
together. All it takes is communication and attention to detail to
achieve spectacular results.
Expectations differ widely from client to client and printer to printer,
and may even change from project to project. The printer may want
press-ready files or they may want to manage color conversion and
necessary output adjustments in their own controlled environment.
Your job is to navigate these waters with an understanding of how the
printer would like the files prepared and then create the files to the
best of your ability. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Print technology is
constantly improving and changing. Don’t assume that what was status
quo yesterday, is normal operating procedure today.

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PRINTING BASICS
COLOR GAMUTS
Modern digital cameras and scanners capture images in the red, green, blue
(RGB) color space. Our computer monitors and televisions display those images
in RGB. In most video displays each pixel is composed of red, green and blue
sub-pixels which combine in various proportions to produce a range of colors.
The colored pixels when viewed from a normal distance appear to blend.
Offset printing requires that those RGB original images be converted to cyan,
magenta, yellow, black (CMYK). Though it varies by the job, ink is typically
applied in the order of the abbreviation. The CMYK model works by applying
ink colors to a lighter, usually white, background. The ink reduces the light that
would otherwise be reflected. This model is called subtractive because inks
subtract brightness from white. A full combination of colored inks results in
black. However, to produce deeper black tones and unsaturated and dark colors
black ink is added.
Like the RGB pixels of your computer monitor, CMYK color is broken down
into dots in offset printing. Our eyes connect the dots to create the illusion of
continuous tone and a range of colors.

RGB AND CMYK COLOR GAMUTS

A color gamut, is a subset of colors which can be accurately represented
in a given color space or by a certain output device. Each color space has its
own limitations.
When converting from RGB to CMYK, the original colors which are outside of
the CMYK space gamut must somehow be approximated. Simply trimming the
colors which are out of gamut can seriously hurt the image. Most printers use
profiles to simplify this process. Talk to your printer early to find out how they
want files supplied. Many printers request CMYK press-ready files while others
prefer to make this conversion within their color-controlled environment.

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THE ADDITIVE PRIMARIES: RED, GREEN AND BLUE. THE SUBRTRACTIVE PRIMARIES: CYAN,
MAGENTA, YELLOW AND BLACK. IN OFFSET
PRINTING BLACK IS ADDED FOR DEPTH,
CONTRAST AND RICHNESS OF COLOR

CMYK COLOR RGB COLOR

GAMUT GAMUT

VISUAL COLOR
GAMUT

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PRINTING BASICS
HALFTONES + CMYK
A photograph, painting or illustration that includes different shades or
gradations of color is said to be continuous tone. A halftone is the reprographic
technique that simulates continuous tone imagery through the use of dots,
varying either in size, in shape or in spacing. Where continuous tone imagery
contains an infinite range of colors or grays, the halftone process reduces visual
reproductions to an image that is printed with only one color of ink, in dots of
differing size or spacing.
In printing, ink is applied to the dots but not to the spaces between them. The
size and angle of the screen controls the size and proximity of the dots to create
the desired shade. Larger, closer dots create darker color because they allow
less of the paper to show through. As dots get smaller and farther apart, the
color gets lighter.
In digital halftoning, images are broken down into dots when printing plates are
made. This process is precise and can produce extremely fine dots, allowing for
many shades and gradations.
Duotones are two color halftones that use two screens at two different angles
and two colors of ink on two different plates to create more depth and contrast.
Tritones and quadtones add additional screens at unique angles. All are great
options for jobs where spot colors are used.
CMYK printing uses the four process color inks—cyan, magenta, yellow and
black—to reproduce a broad spectrum of colors and tones and is made possible
by repeating the halftone process for each color. The semi-transparent nature
of ink allows halftone dots to optically reproduce full-color imagery.

HALFTONE DUOTONE FOUR-COLOR PROCESS

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PRINTING BASICS
PIXELS, DOTS + LINES
The history of printing is the history of progress toward reproduction of
continuous tone in mass quantities.
A halftones ability to fool the eye into seeing continuous tone depends on the
size of the screen used to divide the image into dots. The most common method
of creating screens—amplitude modulation or conventional screening—produces
a regular grid of dots that vary in size. The other method of creating screens—
frequency modulation—is used in a process also known as stochastic screening.
The resolution of a conventional halftone screen is measured in lines per inch
(lpi). This is the number of lines of dots in one inch, measured parallel with the
screen’s angle. Screens range from 60 lpi to 600 lpi. The higher the number,
the finer the resolution of detail in the image. Coarser screen in the 60-85 lpi
range have been commonly used in newspapers. For high-quality printing on
premium paper, 175 lpi is considered the minimum standard line screen and
high-quality ultraviolet (UV) printing can print as high as 300 lpi. (Read more
about this on page 10.)
—
Note: Images are measured in pixels per inch (ppi). The higher the resolution
of your image, the greater the detail that can be reproduced. Your image’s pixel
resolution should be twice your intended line screen or a standard 300 ppi.
—
In stochastic printing, uniformly-sized dots are placed randomly. So the density
of a color is determined by the number of dots instead of the size of the dots.
Stochastic screens are measured in microns and refer to the size of the dot. The
lower the number of microns, the finer the resolution of the image. The random
dot pattern of Stochastic screening eliminates rosettes and the potential for
moiré patterns forming. It also offers a broader possible color gamut and
therefore may require different curves.
All screening technologies have tradeoffs. For instance, stochastic can be used
to smooth out screens and maintain consistency but it may not be the best
choice for the imagery or ink coverage in your project. Consult your printer to
determine which screening method is appropriate for your project.
—
Note: Sometimes misused, the term dots per inch (dpi), refers to the imaging of
your computer monitor or printer.

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IMAGE RESOLUTION

72 PPI IMAGE FILE 300 PPI IMAGE FILE

IMAGES ARE MEASURED IN PIXELS PER INCH. THE HIGHER THE RESOLUTION OF YOUR IMAGES, THE GREATER THE DETAIL THAT CAN BE RE-
PRODUCED. YOUR IMAGES PIXEL RESOLUTION SHOULD BE TWICE YOUR INTENDED LINE SCREEN OR A STANDARD 300 PPI.

LINE SCREEN

THE RESOLUTION OF A CONVENTIONAL HALFTONE SCREEN IS MEASURED IN LINES PER INCH (LPI). THIS IS THE NUMBER OF LINES OF DOTS
IN ONE INCH, MEASURED PARALLEL WITH THE SCREEN’S ANGLE. HERE A TONE OF THE SAME VALUE IS REPRESENTED BY INCREASINGLY
FINER LINE SCREENS.

60 LPI 150 LPI 60 LPI 200 LPI

THE SAME IMAGE IS SHOWN AT COARSE LINE SCREEN, SIMILAR TO A NEWSPAPER (ON THE LEFT), AND THEN AT A STANDARD OFFSET LINE
SCREEN (ON THE RIGHT).

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CONVENTIONAL LINE SCREEN ANGLES AND THE STOCHASTIC SCREEN (REPRESENTATION)
RESULTING ROSETTE PATTERN. (YELLOW AT 0°, BLACK
AT 45°, CYAN AT 15° AND MAGENTA AT 75°.)

SCREEN COMPARISONS

60 LPI CONVENTIONAL 35 MICRON STOCHASTIC 200 LPI CONVENTIONAL 10 MICRON STOCHASTIC

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PRINTING BASICS
DOT GAIN
Good color management is crucial for successful printing on uncoated paper.
Color management is a science that results in true color fidelity, image
brightness and detail. It allows input devices (cameras and scanners), display
devices (monitors and projectors) and printing presses of all shapes and sizes
to speak a universal color language. Color management helps ensure consistent
and more predictable color reproduction by using profiles to translate the
different technologies. The International Color Consortium (ICC) has
developed profiles for optimizing images on uncoated paper depending upon
the paper’s texture, finish and shade. Talk with your printer to find out if they
have profiles they will apply to your project.
Because of the ever-changing nature of color management technology, it is best
to clarify when and how image adjustments should be made and who will be
responsible. Some printers require designers to submit print-ready files with
all color corrections in place. Other printers prefer to make the adjustments
within their own color management system.
One challenge of managing color when printing on uncoated paper is the
phenomenon called dot gain. The precise halftone dots spread and deform as
they meet the surface of the paper. If the printer doesn’t adequately adjust for
dot gain in the color management phase, images can become filled in and flat,
colors may not match your builds and knock out type and fine rules may fill in.
Dot gain can be controlled to a great extent through color management and file
preparation. The use of adjustment curves can help accommodate for natural
dot gain leading to cleaner, crisper printing with brighter colors and highlights
and more detail in the shadows. Curves compensate for dot gain by opening up
the separations, decreasing the dot size and increasing the space surrounding it,
allowing the press operator to print to normal ink densities. Curve adjustment
can take place on the designer’s computer, in prepress or when the plates are
imaged.
The following adjustments offer a good starting place when preparing images
for printing on uncoated paper:
Open images 12% in three-quarter tones (shadows)
Open images 15% in mid tones (50% tones)
—
Note: Curves to optimize images for uncoated paper vary depending upon the
paper’s texture and finish. Talk to your printer early to find out if they have curves
they want to use.

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UNADJUSTED ADJUSTED

STRAIGHT CURVE HALFTONE CURVE-ADJUSTED HALFTONE

STRAIGHT CURVE CMYK COLOR CURVE-ADJUSTED CMYK COLOR

PHOTOSHOP ADJUSTMENT LAYER SHOWING THE PHOTOSHOP ADJUSTMENT LAYER SHOWING AN ADJUSTED CURVE
UNADJUSTED CURVE OF THE ORIGINAL CMYK FILE
EACH SEGMENT OF THE CURVE GRID REPRESENTS 10%.
NOTE THAT THE THREE-QUARTER TONES (THE TOP DOT) HAVE
BEEN OPENED UP 12% AND THE MIDTONES (THE LOWER DOT)
HAVE BEEN OPENED UP 15%.

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PRINTING BASICS
INKS + TECHNIQUES
Different types of ink and methods of applying it can produce great effects on
uncoated paper. Always consult your printer for their recommendations.
HEXACHROME PRINTING
Hexachrome is six-color process printing, adding green and orange inks to the
traditional cyan, magenta, yellow and black. The added colors make a broader
gamut of color reproduction possible. Hexachrome inks are brighter, cleaner
and more vibrant than CMYK but can carry higher ink and press costs.
TOUCHPLATES
Touchplates or bump plates use one unit of the press to apply extra ink
to certain areas of an image that require an extra pop. Photoshop or other
software is used to isolate touchplate areas and incorporate them into
an image.
ENHANCED BLACK/RICH BLACK
Printers use many techniques to achieve a denser, richer black. Some use two
hits of black, CMYK black or process black over a screen of cyan. Consult with
your printer regarding their favorite mix to add drama and weight to artwork.
METALLIC INKS
Metallic inks use metallic powders in a varnish base to create images with
metallic luster in virtually any printing process. Smooth uncoated papers
deliver the best results. Leafing inks which have metal flakes that rise to the
top of the ink mixture have more shine but increased rub off. The metal flakes
in non-leafing metallic inks sink down with less rub off and a little less shine.
Non-leafing inks with a dull varnish or aqueous coating perform most reliably
on uncoated paper.
ULTRAVIOLET PRINTING
Ultraviolet (UV) Inks produce sharp images because they are cured instantly
under UV lights on press. UV printing minimizes dot gain and also eliminates
the need for varnish or aqueous coating.
CO-CURE PRINTING
Co-cure presses have UV lamps on only a portion of their ink towers. These
lamps use heat rather than light to dry the inks and the lamps can be moved
around the press adding flexibility.

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FLUORESCENT INKS
Semi-transparent and naturally bright, fluorescent inks increase the
clarity and brightness of images printed on uncoated paper. Fluorescent
inks may be used as spot colors or may be added to process colors to
alter a color image. Fluorescent inks are not recommended for images of
people because they can make flesh tones appear too hot or sunburned.
SOLID SPOT COLORS
Solid coverage on uncoated papers can be tricky. Many ink formulas
use transparent white to create light colors. These colors, when
printed can appear mottled or muddy. To smooth out the solids you
can ask your printer about trying a second hit of ink; moving the
spot color to the last unit on the press; substituting opaque white in
the ink formula; or using a dull coating to minimize the mottle.
GRAY COMPONENT REPLACEMENT (GCR)
Gray component replacement, or achromatic color replacement,
uses specialized software to remove the graying or achromatic
component of combined cyan, magenta and yellow and replace it with
black. GCR uses less ink and offers better color stability on press
making registration easier and greatly reducing trapping issues.

SOLID SPOT COLOR SOLID SPOT COLOR WITH

4 PARTS BLUE OPAQUE WHITE INK
12 PARTS TRANSPARENT WHITE
4 PARTS BLUE
12 PARTS OPAQUE WHITE

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CONVENTIONAL WITH FLUORESCENT MAGENTA
FOUR-COLOR PROCESS TOUCHPLATE

SEMI-TRANSPARENT AND NATURALLY BRIGHT, FLUORESCENT INKS INCREASE THE CLARITY AND BRIGHTNESS OF IMAGES PRINTED ON
UNCOATED PAPER. A FLUORESCENT MAGENTA TOUCH PLATE ENHANCES THE WARM TONES IN THIS PHOTO.

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ULTRAVIOLET
FOUR-COLOR PROCESS

CONVENTIONAL INKS LOSE SOME INTENSITY AS THEY DRY. ULTRAVIOLET INKS PRODUCE THE SHARPEST IMAGES BECAUSE THEY DRY
INSTANTLY UNDER ULTRAVIOLET LIGHTS ON PRESS. THIS LEAVES LITTLE TIME FOR DOT GAIN AND ELIMINATES THE NEED FOR A VARNISH OR
AQUEOUS COATING.

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PRINTING BASICS
COATINGS
Heavy ink coverage can sometimes rub off at the touch of a finger or transfer
onto the sheet next to it. Varnish, aqueous and ultraviolet coatings help seal ink
to prevent rub off.
VARNISH
The most flexible of coatings, varnishes may be used on any weight stock and
be applied over ink without fear of bleeding. Varnish is a petroleum-based
sealant applied by a standard inking unit on press. It can be specified in matte,
dull, satin or gloss and applied to the entire sheet or only in selected areas.
Matte and dull varnishes are recommended for uncoated papers. (Gloss and
satin varnishes can make images appear uneven or mottled.) Varnish darkens
inks on uncoated paper—making solid blacks blacker‚ but will not provide any
other visual effect. If your project requires glue, you may need to knock out or
remove the varnish where the glue will be applied. Check with your printer or
bindery to be sure.
Varnishes can yellow paper over time. Varnishes can also be tinted with
pigments to provide very light and transparent colors.
AQUEOUS
Water-based aqueous coating can be applied over wet ink from a special coater
tower. Aqueous seals a press sheet instantly allowing the ink to continue to dry
underneath. Matte, dull and lay flat aqueous are recommended for uncoated
paper. Aqueous coatings generally cover the entire sheet because they do not
yellow over time. Like varnish, aqueous coating primarily prevents rub off.
Some printers will only use aqueous coating on 100 lb. text and heavier paper
to avoid the risk of curling edges. Additionally, be sure it is compatible with the
pigments in the ink, as aqueous can cause some pigments to bleed.
ULTRAVIOLET COATING
Like UV inks, UV coating is dried quickly with UV radiation. Applied by
silkscreen, UV coatings deliver the best rub protection and fastest drying
time. UV coating can be used on smooth, cover-weight papers. Pre-testing is
recommended. UV coating is usually specified in gloss, although matte, dull
and satin UV coatings are available. Options include spot and overall coverage.

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TWO HITS OF BLACK INK TWO HITS OF MATCH SILVER

NO VARNISH NO VARNISH

DULL VARNISH DULL VARNISH

LAY FLAT AQUEOUS LAY FLAT AQUEOUS

GLOSS VARNISH GLOSS VARNISH

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 PRINTING BASICS
PAPER SPECIFYING
Paper makers have been just as innovative as printers in the past several
decades. In response to market demand, uncoated papers have gotten
increasingly smoother while offering a variety of colors, visual effects and
surface textures.
Premium uncoated papers are formulated to strike the delicate balance
between ink holdout and ink receptivity. Mohawk’s uncoated papers provide
superior ink holdout and are dimensionally stable. Given the extensive range of
uncoated papers on the market, you should specify the manufacturer and the
grade that reflect the quality standard you expect. Discussing your paper choice
with your printer and paper representative early in the process will help ensure
that the paper you want is delivered in time for your print date. (Request a copy
of Paper Basics at mohawkconnects.com.)
The process begins by choosing a stock, finish and color. You then decide upon a
basis weight. Start by feeling the samples in the swatchbook. A complete range
of basis weights is usually shown. Double check the chart in the swatchbook to
make sure the color comes in the basis weight you prefer.
It’s important to be as specific as possible. Ask your paper representative or
paper merchant for plain paper samples or dummies of the paper you’ve chosen.
A dummy is a complete bound version of your project with no printing. It shows
how papers look next to each other and makes it easier for the designer and end
user to imagine the finished piece.
When specifying paper for your job, don’t cut costs by cutting the quality of
paper. Fine paper is manufactured with superior formation and minimal
side to side variation which positively affects printed results. Consider the
following qualities when choosing a paper:
SMOOTHNESS
In general, the smoother the paper, the crisper the halftones. Different degrees
of smoothness are achieved in a process known as calendering, the last step
in paper making when the paper is run through a stack of large steel rollers
with different surfaces. These rollers or calenders tighten the fibers and
smooth the paper. Common finishes for uncoated paper, in order of increasing
smoothness, are eggshell, vellum, smooth and super smooth or ultra smooth.

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PRINTING BASICS
PAPER SPECIFYING
FORMATION
Formation refers to the distribution of fibers within a sheet. To check the
formation, hold a sheet of paper to the light and look for uniformity rather than
clumps or clouds. Good formation makes uncoated paper absorb ink evenly to
yield uniform solids and crisp reproductions.
SHADE
A paper’s color affects the way process colors reproduce on it. Not all white
papers are the same color. Warmer whites contain more yellow, while cooler
whites contain more blue which will affect the appearance of the printed
colors. The printer may want to compensate for this possible color shift.
SIDE-TO-SIDE CONSISTENCY
Paper technically has two sides: the wire side, which comes in contact with the
wires on the papermaking machine, and the felt side, which does not. On some
papers, a color printed on the wire side will appear different than the same
color printed on the felt side. Better uncoated papers have good side-to-side
consistency and therefore more consistent print results from side to side.
PAPER TEXTURE
Textures are embossed on paper after it leaves the papermaking machine to
create effects such as linen or felt. Textured papers are used to add tactile
effect and visual interest. Genuine felt papers tend to be more absorbent.
Linen finish papers by contrast have a harder surface and better ink holdout.
BRIGHTNESS
A paper’s brightness is a function of the amount of color and light the paper
reflects. The whitest paper may not always be the brightest. In general,
brighter paper leads to the appearance of sharper images because more light
goes through the ink and reflects back to the eye. Uncoated papers tend to
have less glare than coated papers. Brightness is not the same as whiteness.
Whiteness is a shade or color.
OPACITY
Opacity refers to the degree of show through, and should be a consideration
with any job that prints on both sides of a page.

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ASK MOHAWK

A designer’s guide to
selecting and working
with a printer.
The key to successfully completed printed projects is
communication. Every project has its own set of details to
cover between the designer, printer and paper merchant.
Mohawk recommends that you call your paper representative
early in the design process. Their experience will help
you select a stock which is appropriate for your project.
Paper reps can also provide samples and promotions,
dummies, and printing tips for particular grades.

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 PRINTING BASICS
THE PRINTER
CHOOSING A PRINTER
Most print salespeople show samples. This is a perfect opportunity to
gain more insight. What were the critical areas in the sample and how did
they achieve the results? Ask for samples showing the specific techniques
you’ll be using in your project. Because communication is the key to
success, you should be comfortable with your salesperson’s knowledge and
understanding. Ask about any specifics you’re interested in: what line screen
is generally used; do they have any special bindery equipment? What is
their proofing system? Do they have digital presses? Tour the pressroom.
Look for an organized and clean plant. The pressroom and warehouse should
be temperature and humidity controlled. Ask about quality control systems and
techniques.
COMMUNICATION
Keep in mind that you are buying a custom-made product. Your expectations
should be clearly defined in the beginning. Discuss critical areas of your
project and talk about the samples that you sent showing the results you like
and those you want to avoid.
Ask your printer for a production schedule that includes dates for receiving
proofs, returning proofs, press runs and deliveries.
SAMPLES
Have you had a print job in the past that you just loved? Or one
that you didn’t? Show the printer samples of print jobs that
have specific qualities that you want to repeat or avoid.

PRINTER CUSTOMER
ESTIMATING PREPRESS PRESS BINDERY
SALES SERVICE

THE DEPARTMENTS A JOB MOVES THROUGH AT THE PRINTER

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PRINTING BASICS
PRE FLIGHT + PREPRESS
Your job is to supply the best possible files to the printer. It is best to go
through the design page by page with the printer and discuss your work flow:
What kind of files will you submit to the printer?
What kind of proofs can you expect to receive?
Can your printer supply you with a PDF profile that is built to match their
presses, ensure print outcome and streamline proofing?
Who will convert the images from RGB to CMYK?
Who will adjust the curves?
Will your images need any GCR?
Start with high-quality images (good exposure, color, etc.)
Are your images of adequate resolution, twice your line screen or
300 ppi at final print size?
Will your image files be final or need color correcting?
Do you need any scanning done?
Who will fine tune images if required?
Who should build special plates for—touchplates, coatings, etc.?
Who will set the traps?
Who will adjust files for any necessary finishing considerations such as
creep in booklet making?

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 PRINTING BASICS
PROOFS
THE BEST PROOFS ARE THE ONES YOUR PRINTER CAN MATCH
Find out which proofs your printer prefers. In almost all cases the printer has
fingerprinted the equipment to the proofing system. Keep in mind that, short
of a press test, there is no proof that 100% replicates the printing process.
DRAWDOWNS
This offline test uses the ink for your job on the paper you’ve specified. Ink
drawdowns are important when you are using specialty inks, for a critical
color match or to see a double hit of color on your stock. This is especially
important if using a cream or colored stock. Make sure you also ask for
appropriate coating–varnish, aqueous or UV–on your drawdowns, as these
can affect your ink shade.
LOOSE COLOR PROOF
A printer who is doing scans will provide a loose color proof that lets
you compare the scanned color against the original image. This step
if especially important if you are providing your printer with digital
photography.
DIGITAL COLOR PROOF
Direct-to-plate printing uses digital proofs, rather than film or blue lines,
for composite color, type and position. Digital proofs, also called spin jets,
save time and money and can sometimes be made on the actual paper you
plan to print on.
PDF PROOF
A PDF proof gives you a good idea of how your job is going to print and are an
easy way to check text and overall design. However, they may not be adequate
for complex color projects or long documents with unusual pagination.
Keep paper shade in mind when reviewing color proofs. For warmer stocks
like a cream white, you might want to reduce yellow, particularly in skin
tones. For a shade like blue white, you might want to reduce the cyan. These
changes are best done in scanning, although slight adjustments can be made
on press. Many printers can sometimes proof on actual printing stock, which
makes it easier to anticipate the effect of paper shade on printed color.
PRESS TEST
A short-run test proof made on press using the plates, ink and paper
specified for your job. Also called strike off and trial proof.

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PRINTING BASICS
ON PRESS
Make sure your printer understands what you expect—and you understand
their capabilities. Use the checklist in the back pocket, take your time, and
follow it step by step.
You should have all final proofs, original art and ink swatches/drawdowns to
check against on press.
This is your final opportunity to verify that your job matches your
specifications. Check artwork, separations, ink colors, paper stock and overall
impact. Concentrate on critical areas of color such as flesh tones or product
photography. Keep in mind that the color on press may never exactly match the
color proof. Your goal is to make the images look as good as possible.
Make one or two changes at a time.
Once you are satisfied, sign and date three sheets; one for the printer, one for
you, and one for the client. Have your printer slip sheet a complete set to take
with you.

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GLOSSARY OF TERMS
CMYK DENSITOMETER
Subtractive primary colors used for Instrument that measures the
four-color process printing: cyan, density of colored inks on paper.
magenta, yellow and black. Used to determine consistency in ink
densities throughout a press run.
COLOR GAMUT
The color gamut, is a subset of colors which DOT GAIN
can be accurately represented in a given The phenomenon when halftone
circumstance, such as within a given dots grow or spread on press.
color space or by a certain output device.
Each color space has its own limitations. DOTS PER INCH (DPI)
The resolution of an imaging device.
COLOR MANAGEMENT i.e. Number of dots of ink a desktop
A system that allows input devices printer prints per line per inch.
(cameras and scanners), display devices
(monitors and projectors), and printers GRAY COMPONENT REPLACEMENT (GCR)
to speak a universal color language. A technique that removes the graying or
Each of these devices uses different achromatic component of combined
technologies to reproduce color. They also cyan, magenta and yellow and
have different color ranges or gamuts, replaces it with black.
so one device may be able to produce ICC PROFILE
colors that the other devices can’t. Color A set of data that characterizes a
management helps achieve consistent color input or output device according
and more predictable color reproduction to standards promulgated by the
by translating the different technologies International Color Consortium (ICC). It
using ICC profiles. These profiles describe allows for reproducible representations
the behavior (range or gamut) of each of color, in both analog and digital
device. The color management system uses representations. ICC Profiles describe
this information to accurately reproduce the color attributes of a particular device
colors among all of the profiled devices. or viewing requirement by defining a
COLOR SEPARATION mapping between the device source or
The process by which original artwork target color and a profile connection
is separated into individual CMYK space (PCS). Every device that captures
color components for printing. or displays color can be profiled. Some
manufacturers provide profiles for
COMPUTER TO PLATE their products, and some end-users
Digital output directly to a printing plate. generate their own color profiles.
CURVES INK HOLDOUT
Dot gain compensation curves are A characteristic of paper related to
a method of controlling tones using its capacity to keep ink sitting on its
calibration that manipulates the exact surface rather than absorbing into
size of the dots on the printing plates so the sheet. Better ink holdout produces
that tone saturation and gray balance sharper, more vibrant printed images.
are controlled on the press sheet. This
calibration can account for the type of LINES PER INCH (LPI)
plate used, the type of paper stock used, the The number of lines of halftone
dot shape used and the type of screening dots in one inch, measured parallel
used—stochastic or conventional. with the screen’s angle.
LOUPE
A printer’s magnifying glass.

24 MOHAWKCON N EC TS.C OM
MOIRÉ RASTER IMAGE PROCESSORING
Patterns in an image caused by The process and the means of turning
incorrect screen angles. vector digital information such as a
PostScript file into a high-resolution
MOTTLED OR MOTTLING raster image for printing.
Having a blotchy, cratered
appearance similar to the lunar RESOLUTION
surface. Mottling is a risk for The resolution of a halftone screen is
images that include big areas of measured in lines per inch (lpi). This is
solid color. the number of lines of dots in one inch,
measured parallel with the screen’s angle.
PAPER DUMMY
A paper dummy uses the specified paper RGB
and shows how the job will be assembled Additive primary colors used for
during production—including size, fold monitors and image capture by camera
and binding. Get a paper dummy at the or scanning: red, green and blue.
outset for any project involving numerous
pages. Make sure to get a new paper REGISTRATION
dummy if the page size, paper or job Proper print registration means that any
specifications change. impression on the paper—ink, metallic
foil, embossing, die cut shape, etc.—occurs
PIXELS PER INCH (PPI) in the precise position as intended.
The number of pixels per inch in
a digital image. The higher the SPREADS AND CHOKES
number, the higher the resolution Similar to trapping, these terms refer to
and the better the image quality. the overlap of overprinting images to
avoid white or colored borders
PORTABLE DOCUMENT FORMAT (PDF) around details of images.
A file format used to present documents
in a manner independent of application STOCHASTIC
software, hardware, and operating A halftone process based on the
systems. Each PDF file encapsulates random distribution of halftone
a complete description of a fixed- dots, using frequency modulation
layout flat document, including the (FM) to change the density of dots
text, fonts, graphics, and other according to the gray level desired.
information needed to display it. TRAPPING
PREFLIGHT When an offset printed document uses
Describes the process of confirming that more than one ink on the same page,
the digital files required for the printing each ink must be printed in register
process are all present, valid, correctly (perfectly aligned) with any other inks
formatted and of the desired type. that it abuts, so that there is no gap
where the different inks meet. Trapping
PRESS-READY PDF is a method of adjusting the artwork by
This file contains all the necessary slightly overlapping the areas where two
items to print a job successfully on distinct, adjacent colors meet so that press
press. Including fonts, images, colors, misregistration won’t cause white spaces.
document specifications, etc. Many
printers can supply a profile that is UNCOATED PAPER
used to generate a press-ready pdf Paper manufactured with no surface
with to their exact specifications. coating. Characterized by a wide
variety of grades and levels of quality.

1 800 THE MILL 25

26 MOHAWKCON N EC TS.C OM
Mohawk has a long-standing
tradition of craft and
technological innovation.
Papermaking at Mohawk began near the end of the Civil
War when the Frank Gilbert Paper Company, a small
newsprint mill, began operating where the Mohawk
and Hudson Rivers meet. The company was purchased
in 1931 by George O’Connor and renamed Mohawk
Papermakers and remains family owned today.
Over the years, Mohawk has blended traditional
craftsmanship with state-of-the-art papermaking
technology and a view toward the future. With ongoing
capital investment, a corporate culture focused on
rapidly evolving customer needs and a commitment to
the environment, Mohawk is the most technologically
advanced papermaker in its field.
Mohawk is a non-integrated mill, which means that we
do not manufacture our own pulp. When we buy pulp, it
has already been purified and formed into thick sheets.
We buy a variety of hardwood and softwood pulps and
postconsumer waste fiber, because each of our papers
requires its own special mix of fiber.

1 800 THE MILL 27

LEARN MORE
To learn more about Mohawk papermaking,
download the Mohawk Live app at the
App Store or at Google Play. Launch the
app using your mobile device, hover over
this image and prepare to be inspired!
Download envelope dielines, see
complete stocking charts, order samples
of paper and envelopes and more on
the web at mohawkconnects.com.

Please visit www.mohawkconnects.com/

caculator/papermath for our PaperMath
calculator to translate inches to millimeters,
sheets to pounds and more.

PRODUCTION
Design: Aurora Design / Niskayuna, NY
Printing and bindery: Sandy Alexander / Clifton, NJ

Covers and insert: Mohawk Superfine Smooth,

Ultrawhite 100c / 270 gsm
Text: Mohawk Superfine Smooth, Ultrawhite 80t / 118 gsm
Inserts: See individual leaves
©2015 Mohawk Fine Papers Inc., Mohawk,® and the
corporate logo are proprietary trademarks of Mohawk.

28 MOHAWKCON N EC TS.C OM
 FPO
(Sandy to explore
creating with a
true screen)
 ASK MOHAWK

PRINTING
THE
DESIGNER’S
465 Saratoga Street Cohoes, New York 12047 1 800 THE MILL mohawkconnects.com
GUIDE TO
ACHIEVING

BASICS
BRILLIANT
Mohawk is North America’s largest privately-owned RESULTS ON
manufacturer of fine papers and envelopes which are UNCOATED
preferred for commercial and digital printing, photo PAPER
specialties and high-end direct mail. Mohawk fine
papers and envelopes, include the signature brands
Mohawk Superfine® and Strathmore,® as well as
proprietary treatments Inxwell® and i-Tone.® With a
culture of innovation, Mohawk’s business model now
extends beyond paper manufacturing into new areas of
growth, including digital substrates and web-based tools,
which connect designers and printers to new markets. 

FPO As a leader in environmentally and socially responsible

(Sandy to explore business practices, Mohawk was the first U.S.

manufacturer of commercial printing papers to match
creating with a 100% of its electricity with wind power renewable

true screen)
energy credits and the first U.S. premium paper mill
to shift toward carbon neutral production. Most of
Mohawk’s portfolio of recycled papers is certified by
Green Seal and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Mohawk is a fourth-generation, family-owned and

operated business based in Cohoes, New York, with
global sales and operations located throughout North
America, Europe and Asia. For more information,
please visit www.mohawkconnects.com.

76-703820014
July 2015
ASK MOHAWK

Press check checklist

The key to success on press is communication. Make
sure your printer understands what you expect—and
you understand their capabilities. Use this checklist and
take your time to follow it step by step. Make one or two
changes at a time.
Bring all approved proofs and ink drawdowns on press to check against.
Use a magnifying loupe for close inspection.
Check paper stock. Ask for the carton label and make sure it is the finish,
weight and color you specified.
Look for missing elements. Be sure all of your text and images apear where
they are supposed to.
Proofread any last minute copy changes.
Check registration. If items look out of register or fuzzy, check the side of
the sheet for the printer’s registration marks to see which color is out of
alignment. Check in more than one place to see if it is an isolated or general
problem.
Review match and process colors. Check solids for look, density and
consistency. Compare the proof and ink drawdowns to the press sheet. All
inks should be laying down smoothly. Densities should be even across the
sheet and match between forms. Check by eye and with the densitometer.
Check for mottling. Ask if they densities can be maintained consistently
throughout the press run.
Review separations and four-color process. Compare the proof to the press
sheet. Move one color at a time and keep track of your moves on each press
sheet. Concentrate on critical areas of color such as flesh tones or product
photography. Keep in mind that the color on press may never exactly match
the color proof. Your goal is to make the images look as good as possible.
Check dry back on the sheet. If you are concerned that the colors will look
lighter or darken when dry, quickly dry a sheet with a blow dryer, microwave
or shrink wrap tunnel.
Look for broken or fuzzy type, odd scratches, hickies, spots and ghosting.
Check overall impact and legibility.
Sign and date three sheets; one for the printer, one for you, and one for the
client. Have your printer slip sheet a complete set to take with you.
ASK MOHAWK

Print specs checklist

Print specifications, or print specs, list all of the job
requirements of a job. The print specs you develop are
used by the printer to accurately quote your job. Your
specs should include:

SCHEDULE

Delivery date
File release date

PROJECT DETAILS

Document trim size

Number of pages
Quantity
Ink colors
Paper brand, grade, shade, finish and weight
Bleeds
Critical crossovers
Artwork concerns
Proofs required
Special processes or effects
Bindery and finishing details

FILE PREPARATION

File formats

EXPECTATIONS

Press check expectations

Billing and shipping instructions

Mohawk Superfine Smooth, Ultrawhite 80c / 216 gsm

PRINT DEMO
Offset printing on
smooth white paper
• Curve adjusted: 12% in three-quarter tones,
15% in mid tones
• Four-color process, offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Superfine Smooth, Ultrawhite 80c/216 gsm
PRINT DEMO
Offset printing on
smooth soft white paper
• Curve adjusted: 12% in three-quarter tones,
15% in mid tones
• Four-color process, offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Superfine Smooth, Softwhite 80c/216 gsm
PRINT DEMO
Offset printing on
felt finish white paper
• Curve adjusted: 12% in three-quarter tones,
15% in mid tones
• Four-color process, offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Via Felt, Pure White 80c/216 gsm
PRINT DEMO
Offset printing
without curve adjustments
• No curve adjustment to compensate for dot gain
• Four-color process, offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Superfine Smooth, Ultrawhite 80c/216 gsm
PROOF DEMO
Epson proof
• Curve adjusted: 12% in three-quarter tones,
15% in mid tones
• Standard proofing stock
Note: Standard proofing stock is intended for short term use
and will discolor quickly when exposed to light.
PRINT DEMO
Four color process
from an RGB original
• No curve adjustment to compensate for dot gain
• Non-color managed (from an RGB original)
• Four-color process, offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Superfine Eggshell, Ultrawhite 80c/216 gsm
PRINT DEMO
Four color process on
eggshell finish white paper
• Curve adjusted: 12% in three-quarter tones,
15% in mid tones
• Four-color process, offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Superfine Eggshell, Ultrawhite 80c/216 gsm
PRINT DEMO
Digital printing on eggshell
finish white paper
• Curve adjustment not required for digital printing
• HP Indigo printed
• Mohawk Superfine Eggshell, Ultrawhite 80c/216 gsm
PRINT DEMO
Four-color process black
and white image
• Curve adjusted: 12% in three-quarter tones,
15% in mid tones
• Four-color process, offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Superfine Smooth, Ultrawhite 80c/216 gsm
PRINT DEMO
Black halftone
• Curve adjusted: 12% in three-quarter tones,
15% in mid tones
• Offset printed
• Conventional 200 line screen
• Mohawk Superfine Smooth, Ultrawhite 80c/216 gsm