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A-6 Desktop Color Primer
Even if your color printing is done exclusively on the iR C2100/2100S, you
will encounter concepts from offset printing if you use high-end graphics
applications. For example, color controls in illustration applications such as
Illustrator are geared toward specifying color for offset printing using process
and spot colors. Many applications allow you to specify the screening used for
each printing plate.
Using color effectively
The ability to print in color can greatly increase the effectiveness of your
message, whether you are printing a presentation or a newsletter, or proofing
an ad concept that will later be printed on press. Some potential benefits of
using color include:
• Conveying information rapidly by using color cues
• Making use of the emotive aspects of different colors
• Increasing impact and message retention
Color can also be a source of distraction and discord if it is used poorly. This
section outlines some tips and concepts that will prove useful as you approach
designing color materials.
A few rules of thumb
Try some of the following strategies for creating successful color materials:
• Rather than applying colors indiscriminately, use color to aid
comprehension. In presentations, graphs, and charts, use color to highlight
patterns and emphasize differences.
• In general, fewer colors work better than many colors.
• Use red as an accent color. Red is particularly effective when used in
otherwise monochromatic materials.
• Consider the tastes of your target audience when choosing colors.
• Keep a file of printed color pieces that appeal to you or strike you as
effective. Refer to it for ideas when designing your own documents.