Printing Lingo: What is Grayscale Printing?
Unlike full-color
printing, which applies multiple colors in various concentrations, grayscale
printing only uses black ink to compose an image. In order to represent the
variations in tone and contrast within the image, the ink is applied in
concentrations ranging from 0% black to 100% black.
Because
grayscale printing only uses the black ink color, it is more budget-friendly than
full-color printing. That said, even though grayscale is devoid of color and relatively
inexpensive, it still reproduces high-resolution images.
What types of Print Projects use
Grayscale printing?
Grayscale printing is most commonly used for simple print projects that contain
images that do not need to display in color. For example, basic instruction
sheets, product manuals, and assembly guides often have images printed in
grayscale to save money.
Likewise, corporate logos on
envelopes, letterhead, forms and other "no-frills" documents are often printed
in grayscale. Also, grayscale is sometimes
used as an artistic design element on certain types of printing, such as photography
books.
Grayscale is generally not recommended
for printed pieces used for promotional purposes, such as brochures, postcards,
or presentation folders. Full-color printing is the better choice when trying
to promote a company, product, or service. This is because a colorful image grabs
attention, increases interest, and boosts recall better than a grayscale image.
If you have any questions or need help
with an upcoming print project, give Formax Printing a call at 866-367-6221. Or,
if you already know your project's specs and would like a quote, click here to
submit our easy quote request form. As always, we look forward to assisting
with your printing needs!
Take care! Rick