Paper Color And Commercial Printing

When designing your next brochure, letterhead, newsletter, or business card, consider the color of the paper that you are going to print the project on. The reason being is that, the slightest tonal difference in the paper you choose can affect the end results of the colors you choose.

If you are new to commercial printing and graphic design you may be asking yourself, what are you talking about? I thought a white sheet of paper is a white sheet of paper, what is the difference? For the most part whites are similar but when it comes to commercial printing, there are various tones of whites. For example, some white sheets are a blue-white while some appear more soft and yellow-white. Now this will not affect your color scheme greatly, but if you are trying to match Pantone colors exactly to the PMS book, then this can make a big difference.

Where the discussion for paper color really comes into play is when you choose a natural or cream colored stock. This can really have an affect on your final brochure, newsletter, or other project.

If you are at all confused or need some direction as to what will look or print best, just ask your commercial printer and they will be able to give you some good pointers and advice.