Flexographic Image Adjustment: Essential Principles and Best Practices

Flexographic printing combines technical precision with artistic control. To achieve the best visual results, careful image adjustment is essential at every stage of the prepress process. Below are key principles and precautions to ensure consistent, high-quality outcomes.

1. Core Principles

• Highlight DropoutWatch for highlight loss and ensure that fine tonal details remain visible.

• Complementary ColorsUse opposite colors cautiously — it’s usually best to apply only one complementary color to avoid unwanted shifts.

• Total Ink CoverageKeep total ink coverage below the paper’s absorption limit to prevent smudging or uneven drying.

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2. Spot Color Application

Spot colors should be evaluated individually, depending on the design, material, and printing conditions. When used correctly, they enhance visual impact and maintain color consistency across products.

3. Registration Mark Positioning

The placement of registration marks must be precise. Marks positioned too close to the edge may cause misalignment.If a spot color plate includes both halftone and solid areas, consult the press operator to determine whether to print them together or separately for better control.

4. Handling Fine Details

• Pay special attention to small text, thin lines, and multi-color registration zones.

• Separate large solid backgrounds from halftone plates.

• Heavy ink areas may require double printing for consistent coverage.

• Adjust gradients carefully to avoid visible banding or tonal breaks.

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5. Image Adjustment Tips

• Based on Printing ConditionsAdjust tone curves to suit the printing setup. Slightly reduce tone values to offset dot gain.

• Based on Flexographic CharacteristicsAdd micro dots in highlight areas to prevent dropouts and maintain tonal balance.

• Plate Thickness and HardnessSofter or thicker plates tend to expand more — adjust highlights accordingly.

• Screen Ruling (Line Count)High line screens require precision; low screens may benefit from selective sharpening.

• Product-Specific AdjustmentsProducts like milk cartons, paper cups, or corrugated boxes each require tailored adjustments according to their substrate behavior.

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At printing in China, our experts combine years of experience with advanced flexographic techniques to achieve superior print quality. Whether for custom packaging or book printing projects, we focus on color accuracy, consistency, and detail — ensuring every print meets the highest standard.