Enhancing Coverage of Large Solid Color Areas

Many times we are asked how to insure even and rich coverage on large solid areas of a press sheet. Where ever possible we recommend use of a "Kicker" plate. This is usually a screen of the same color which enhances the density of the ink on the sheet of paper. It also allows the pressman more control when the job is on press.

For a solid PMS (spot color) we will usually recommend a 60 to 70 percent kicker. Of course, this affects the cost of the job because the kicker must be run on an additional cylinder of the press. Thus, a 2 color job becomes a 3 color job if using one kicker.

For a four color process job we find that blacks often need a kicker. For a "cool" or blue black we recommend a 40 percent cyan kicker. For a real rich, deep black a combination of 40% cyan, 30% magenta and 30% yellow gives a superior result. This can be accomplished using just the four process colors, so no additional expense is incurred. All it takes is a little pre-production planning.

Call us if you wish to explore using a kicker plate on your next job. We'll be happy to work with your printer to achieve the result you desire.

E-mail your questions & comments to service@ultragraphics.com