Machines tools and equipment on the terminal
The graphics technician's materials and equipment
The right printing is about choosing the right machine the right paper and the right color setting for the task. As a graphics technician you must understand how the three work together.
§Printing methods
There are several ways to print and each has its strengths. The choice depends especially on print run size and requirements for quality and price.
| Method | Suitable for. | Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| Offset printing | Large print runs such as newspapers and magazines | High quality and low unit price with many copies |
| Digital printing | Small runs and personal printing | Quick to set up, no clamp plates |
| Large format | Banners, signs and posters | Printing on large surfaces and special materials |
§Paper and cardboard
Paper always shrinks
- 01Thin paper for leaflets and brochures.
- 02Thick cardboard for business cards and envelopes.
- 03Blank surface for intense colours in for example advertisements.
- 04Matte surface for text that should be pleasant to read.
§Color theory is a fixed part of the building painter training, and in Denmark it's largely built on the NCS system. This article explains how to read an NCS code, how color affects room perception, the difference to RAL, and what color imitation and color analysis are about.
The color is often what the customer notices most. Therefore there are control tools to ensure colors sit right and are the same from sheet to sheet. A good eye for color is a core competency — but it's supported by measuring equipment that removes the guesswork.