design
Avoid image compression
Top design
It is recommended that a designer
works with uncompressed TIFF or EPS
files wherever possible when creating a
piece for digital print, avoiding the use of
compressed file types such as JPEG. While
image compression enables the quick and
tips for digital printing
easy downloading of files online, it can cause
the loss of valuable image information that
cannot be restored.
Getting optimum, high-quality results from Digital proofs are also much less costly to
Optimising type sizes
digital printing requires a different approach the customer than high-quality, on-press, litho
Digital type reproduction differs from offset.
to design. This special feature details the ‘wet’ proofs. Therefore, a designer can achieve
Generally, the reproduction of smaller type
best design practices to follow to assure unprecedented control over their work
presents greater challenges for a digital
outstanding results. by reviewing proofs, adjusting as desired,
press; however knockout type on black can
and reproofing until an optimum result is
Print-on-demand services require designers
work very well and is not subject to the
achieved, avoiding any disappointment with
and printers to share a commitment to
registration variations that can occur on an
the final product.
frequent and rapid turnarounds, so it is
offset press. Proofing in advance
imperative for a designer to understand
will help ensure that typeface selections
Super blacks create inferior results
how best to design for digital print. Headley
are satisfactory.
Using the iGen3 press, the most saturated
Brothers has devised the following design
and clean black is produced with 100 per-
guide to the key issues involved in achieving
cent black dry ink. This differs from offset,
optimal digital colour print quality.
where additional ‘bump’ inks, for example
the underpinning of the colour with a
Proof in advance, and frequently
percentage of Cyan, are often added to
There are significant differences between
produce the most solid and rich variety of
proofing on digital presses and proofing
black, or ‘super blacks’.
for offset. Unlike in the offset process, the
digital proof is not a simulation but printed
Super blacks are not necessary with the
on the actual press the finished item will
iGen3 and will not result in the printing of
be produced on, allowing the designer to
a pure black, which potentially can give an
see a true representation of the final piece.
inferior result. For example, a black that has
been underpinned with Cyan will result in
6 headsup
a blue-black tone.