Colour troubleshooting
Why Printed Colours Differ from the Screen
Screens emit RGB light, while printed tags reflect light from ink and paper. The achievable colour is also affected by the selected stock, coating, ink process, finish and viewing conditions. A calibrated workflow and representative proof can reduce surprises, but an ordinary screen preview cannot guarantee an exact physical colour.
Identify where the difference enters
Compare the artwork values, proof type and physical viewing conditions before treating every difference as the same colour problem.
| Check | What it can indicate | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Document colour mode | RGB values include colours outside the selected print process. | Prepare output using the agreed CMYK or spot-colour workflow. |
| Paper shade | White, cream, kraft or coloured stock changes reflected colour. | Assess a printed sample on the named stock. |
| Screen condition | Brightness and uncalibrated displays make colour appear lighter or more saturated. | Use a calibrated reference and controlled brightness. |
| Surface finish | Matt, gloss and lamination alter contrast and reflection. | Approve the colour with the intended finish where critical. |
| Viewing light | Daylight, warm retail light and office light change perception. | Review under the intended display conditions. |
Define what must match
Decide whether the target is an established brand spot colour, a previous printed item, a material swatch or only the current screen appearance. Supply the most reliable physical reference available and identify the priority colours. Do not use a compressed screenshot as the production colour standard.
Separate layout proofs from colour proofs
A PDF proof is valuable for copy, position, page order and technical separations. It normally cannot reproduce paper shade, ink holdout, foil reflection or laminate sheen. When colour is commercially critical, ask which physical proof or production reference is appropriate for the quantity and process.
Record the approved production values
Keep the agreed CMYK build, spot-colour reference, stock and finish with the controlled artwork version. Reusing a visual colour sampled from a website or old JPG can introduce new conversions. Repeat work should reference the approved specification and note when a material or process has changed.
Supply a useful colour brief
- Original artwork file
- Agreed colour mode
- Priority brand colours
- Physical reference if available
- Named stock and finish
- Intended viewing environment
This troubleshooting provides general technical guidance for why printed colours differ from the screen. Product availability, material compatibility, production method and timing are confirmed for the individual specification.