Gino

I heard there was an opacity limit for printing I'm not sure if it makes a different what type of printer you are on, but if I create a box behind text and want to lower the opacity whats the lowest I can safely go before its to hard to see or not optimal. Any suggestions?

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Distill

The opacity limit will depend on your printer. I've had problems in the past where something I'd intended to be very subtle ended up being darker just because the smallest dot the printer could make was too big. It ended up being a few widely-spaced but definite specks (far from the look it had on screen).

Your best bet is to test it (if you're printing yourself) or to get a proof (if sending it out to a printer). A pain in the butt either way.

Anyone else have a good rule of thumb?

thislightifound

I don't usually go below 10% opacity just to be safe. I agree with Distill though about a printer's proof because then you'll know for sure.

It does all depend on the colours you're using too. For example darker colours will allow you a lower opacity than lighter colours.

alyCe

Or, if you are struggling with halftone patterns you could use pantone gray also, although it would probably up the price-tag a bit

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Mr Pre-Press

Hi Gino:

I assume we're talking offset here. For sheetfed, the max is typically 280-300% [4 plates at 100% = slurry that will never dry]. Web is somewhat different, but not by much. Bleed thru will be a problem.

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cbowman

for sheetfed offset which is what i assume you are talking about the ink limit we try to keep is right around 250-280 and a 300 line screen. the lowest you can normally go on a spot with that line screen is right around 3% to be predictable. You could check out a pantone tints book they have spots in various %'s so you can actually see what 10% of reflex blue looks like. P.S. if you want to make a large black area try and use a black build. it's c:60 m:40 y:0 and k:100

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Gino

Thanks for the info everyone!

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Reach

3-5%, safely on mono artwork, color images can be tricky as lighters inks will vanish sooner, just go from printers proofs, if you go to light they can usually darken it on press slightly without effecting the overall quality, but you have to be present whilst the job is on press

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