COLOR SEPARATIONS
Use the Correct Screen Printing Separations Method to Get the Result You Want
We now offer color separation services to all of our customers. You simply tell us which type of separations you would like and we will have the separated file to you within 24 hours. The process is simple, just click the separations button after you have logged in and upload the file that you need separated. You tell us the size, quantity of colors, and the separation process you would like us to use. We do not print the films for you, so make sure you are able to print them yourself. Below are the descriptions for the different types of separations. Read them carefully to know which type you need, as a wrong choice will result in unnecessary expenditures on your behalf. We will make changes to things if need be, however, changing the separation process will result in a new charge.
With any type of artwork that you screen print, the design for the printing process must be separated. Even with simple color separations, one screen per color should be used in the silk screen separations process. With true process separations (CMYK process), four screens should be used (1 more if you need a base white). And with more complicated screen printing separations methods like simulated printing, more than three screens may be used depending on the artwork used. Furthermore, the index screen printing separations process may require more than four screens
Some Terms:
CMYK colors: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black
RGB color: red, green, and blue (see difference between RGB and CMYK)
Pre burned screens: pre-exposed screens that have been created so you can go straight to printing
Offset printing: a printing technique where the inked color images are transferred/offset from a plate to a rubber blanket, then used to print on textile, etc.
Spot Color ($25.00)
This process of color separations can be done using Adobe Illustrator without any other type of special software. You can create this type of color separation with simple vector artwork in the proper number of colors. The spot color screen printing separations process is suitable for two or more colors. Occasionally, spot color printing may be used with designs involving over 10 bright colors, though this is rare. No matter the number of colors in use, artwork that is vector designed is necessary for spot color separations.
4-Color Process ($85.00)
This type silk screen separations process involves four colors in the artwork: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink (CMYK). By using programs such as Fast Films, Photoshop, or Easy Art, you can utilize this process in conjunction with secondary and tertiary colors to develop the full spectrum of colors for your specific design.
The advantage of this process include saving time and labor by only having to use four screens.
On the contrary, the disadvantage is that it may be difficult to get the right colors for your t-shirts as this process was originally intended to print on paper. In addition, translucent ink is difficult to use as you can anticipate shifts in colors and casts. The result produced may not be consistent on a regular basis.
In addition, the true process silk screen separations method is not able to produce results that contain color vibrancy. Bump plates or spot colors are typically used to achieve brightness and vibrancy in designs. But since this requires using additional screens, the simulated process may be a better option.
Simulated Process ($75.00)
As the most popular screen print separations method in use, the simulated process combines Pantone colors and halftones to create full-color designs through a matching system. What makes this method so popular is that the results are consistent as long as the same color separations technique is applied.
However, simulated process is not perfect. Since designs that require between five to eight screens will typically use this process, it's not ideal for artwork that contains both raster and vector elements.
While simulated process screen print separations can be done in Photoshop, more specialized software like Fast Films, Easy Art, and Spot Process may help you produce the results you desire quicker.
Index Separations ($85.00)
This process uses pixel dots instead of halftones in creating new colors and utilizes fewer colors to get the same look intended, which allows you to produce very fine details without risk of more.
However, the disadvantage of the index color separations process is that shading and highlights cannot be printed. Designs that require different shades of one color may only print with one shade of color, which may require you to simplify your design. While you can use Fast Films, Easy Art, and Photoshop to develop designs for the index color separations method, a large press is required for multi-colored prints involving many screens. This can be a limitation for you if you work with more complex artwork and designs.
