Extended gamut printing, often referred to as EG or expanded color gamut (ECG) printing, is a revolutionary technique that goes beyond the conventional four-color process (CMYK).
By introducing additional colors like green, orange, and violet, it achieves more vibrant and accurate color reproduction, allowing for a wider spectrum of hues.
Six advantages of using EG include:
- Precise Color Matching: In the past, achieving consistent and vibrant colors meant using specific spot colors, which increased packaging costs. With extended gamut color formulas, printers can replicate over 90% of Pantone Matching System (PMS) colors with unmatched accuracy, reducing the need for costly spot color use.
- Expanded Color Range: Extended gamut printing offers a broader palette of spot colors, enabling designers to explore shades that were previously challenging to replicate. This expanded range empowers creativity, resulting in packaging and printed materials that are visually captivating and detailed.
- Consistency and Efficiency: Maintaining color consistency across different print runs and substrates is a hallmark of extended gamut printing. With a standard set of spot colors, brands can ensure that their packaging maintains a consistent look, eliminating variations caused by traditional color mixing.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Unlike printing with spot or PMS colors, extended gamut printing streamlines the printing process. Custom inks are digitally pre-mixed during pre-press, eliminating the need for physical ink formulation. This efficiency translates to cost savings in inks, labor, and waste reduction, resulting in more competitive pricing for clients.
- Ideal for Private Labels: Extended gamut printing has been a game-changer for private label products, allowing manufacturers to compete with national brands. It enables faster print runs at lower costs without compromising quality, leveling the playing field for smaller retailers.
- Flexibility in Design: While extended gamut printing achieves near-exact color matches for most digital images, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some specialized colors like metallic inks or specific Pantone shades may fall outside its scope. Working with an experienced printer is crucial to navigating the best printing choice for your specific project.
Extended gamut printing has ushered in a new era of color accuracy and efficiency in the printing industry. By expanding the color gamut and reducing the reliance on spot colors, this technique empowers brands and designers to create stunning packaging and materials without breaking the bank.
As technology continues to advance, extended gamut printing will likely become an indispensable tool for delivering consistent, vibrant, and cost-effective printed solutions that elevate brands to new heights of excellence.