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JARGON BUSTER - The A to Z of Print Terminology

 

Making sense of baffling printing terms.

 

You know everything there is to know about your business. Yet, when it comes to dealing with print suppliers you're probably not clued up on the intricate details. Like every other industry, the Printing industry has its very own language and terminology.

 

To help keep things simple, we have created a Jargon Buster Guide where you can familiarize yourself with typical print terms and what they actually mean.

 

 

Print Terminology Guide A-Z:

 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

 

Abrasion Resistance

The resistance to scratching or scuffing of a surface of paper

 

Accordion Fold

A type of paper folding in which each fold of a brochure runs in the opposite direction to the previous fold of the brochure creating an accordion affect

 

Acetate

A clear or translucent plastic sheet material of a variety of colors used as an overlay usually

 

Additive Colors

In photographic reproduction the primary colors of red, green, and blue which are mixed to form all other colors. Also known as RGB

 

Aerate

This refers to a process whereby air is blown onto paper sheets to separate the sheets

 

Agate

Type size of 5 ½ points

 

Airbrush

A compressed air tool that dispenses a fine mist of ink; used in illustration and photo retouching software to create effects

 

Amberlith

Was used in laying film and stripping. Red-orange acetate used for masking mechanicals when photographing for plates. The Amberlith area appears black to the camera, and prints clear on the resulting film. Not used much anymore

 

Anodized Plate

In lithography, a plate manufactured with a barrier of aluminum oxide, which prevents chemical reactions that break down the plate; it provides optimum press performance and can carry very small dot %'s

 

Antique Finish

Paper with a rough surface

 

Antiskinning Agent

An antioxidant agent used to prevent inks from skinning over in the can or on press

 

Aqueous Coating

Water soluble coating that protects ink and enables quick handling of piece. Comes in gloss, satin, and dull-Usually done in-line

 

Aqueous Plate

Water soluble plate coatings, which are less toxic and less polluting which enables quick handling of paper and high level of gloss

 

Art Work

Any materials or images which are prepared for graphic reproduction and can be produced manually or by software

 

Art-Lined Envelope

An envelope that is lined with fine paper; can be colored patterned or foiled

 

Artwork

All illustrated material, photo and charts etc., that is prepare for reproduction which can be produced manually or by software

 

Author or Customer Alterations (AA, CA's)

Changes made after the proof stage where a customer is responsible for additional charges