In print, the right lingo is your superpower. Whether you’re prototyping packaging, mapping out new collateral, or building an influencer kit, speaking the language keeps projects smooth and results spot-on. Think of it as the industry’s secret handshake! Master it, and you’ll impress clients, keep your printer smiling, and avoid those costly “lost in translation” moments.
Speak the Language of Print: A Glossary for Creatives
Color & Ink
CMYK
Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black—the four ink colors used in full-color printing. Also known as “process color.”
PMS (Pantone Matching System)
A standardized color system used for precise color matching. Great for brand consistency, metallics, and neon hues.
Spot Color
An individual, pre-mixed ink (like a Pantone) printed separately from CMYK. Used for exact hues, metallics, or vivid colors.
Rich Black
A deep, saturated black made by mixing black ink with additional colors (usually 60C, 40M, 40Y, 100K). Not your basic black.
Paper & Substrates
Stock – The type of paper or material used for printing.
GSM / Basis Weight – Paper thickness, measured in grams per square meter.
Coated vs. Uncoated – Smooth and glossy vs. textured and absorbent.
Substrate – Any surface being printed on! Paper, plastic, wood, fabric, or dissolvable cartons (don’t forget VanishPak).
Finishes & Effects
Foil Stamping – Heat-applied metallic or pigmented foil.
Emboss / Deboss – Raised or indented surfaces for tactile drama.
Spot UV – Glossy coating applied to specific areas.
Soft Touch Coating – Velvety matte finish.
Die Cut – Custom-shaped cuts for windows, pull-tabs, or packaging reveals.
Print Processes
Offset Printing – High quality, best for large runs.
Digital Printing – Fast, flexible, great for short runs.
Screen Printing – Bold, specialty graphics.
Flexography – Common for packaging films and labels.
Production & Prep
Bleed – Artwork extended past trim.
DPI – Resolution (300 DPI is the sweet spot).
Fulfillment – Assembling products with their packaging
Proof – A must-approve preview.
Bindery – Folding, stitching, gluing, assembling.
Press Check – In-person approval session (don’t forget your coffee).
See the Presses in Action!
Fluency in print goes beyond picking colors! It’s knowing the setup that ensures flawless production and minimizes waste. At Calitho, we guide you through the details so your projects move from proof to press with confidence. Delivering the exact results you envisioned, with efficiency and sustainability built in.
Want to learn the process and see the presses in action?? Click HERE to schedule your tour today! You may even get a chance to meet the pup in the CMYK scarf!!