I am still amazed at how often we hear this in printing. Clients holding samples from several years ago, produced on different paper, often even from a different state (or country?), different inks, presses, and operators - concerned that the newest printing (produced from a different file at a higher resolution) doesn't precisely match the 8 year old piece.
The truth is - printing isn't an exact science. We printers use a lot of technology to adhere to industry wide standards as closely as we can. There are many variables that can affect the outcome of your printed project - far too many to cover here. Indeed - you can help your projects be more consistent by using the same printer, specifying the same exact stock, and making sure you haven't changed important items - like the Pantone color or process build. Commodity grade sheets (most coated and uncoated house sheets) are purchased by printers based on price and availability. Registered Ink also selects their house sheets based on printability and quality. The fact is, though, that the *house sheet* changes over time. Even the manufacturing location and process often changes - without the printer's knowledge. Therefore - brightness and color reproduction are altered.
The one single most important step in matching your previously printed piece is to supply a sample (or better yet, a few) to your printer at time of estimate and prior printing, preferably the former. This helps us to better understand the project, including items like line screen, poor (or superior) quality printing that we're trying to *match*, as well as attempting to find whatever paper was selected before.
The key - overall - is developing a close working relationship with us so that we can help you make the project successful. That's why we're here (all printers - or at least all printers that still utilize people in the equation) and we're always happy to help make the project great from the start. However, it is very difficult to *make the project great* after improper specifications and selections have been made and the project is complete.
Fact is - nobody sets out to produce a job the client is unhappy with - ever. Communication is key and requires the cooperation of all parties for success. Great printing is ONLY the result of excellent planning and proper communication.
Happy summer...
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