Expert: Amy - 6/12/2009

Question
I've got a file with a graduated tint as part of it, but when it prints out the tint is stepped as if there's not enough resolution

Answer
Hi Gerwyn,

This is called banding. Designing for print requires some knowledge of how to properly configure gradients to avoid banding. You will find a lot of information on the web on this topic. For example, a slight gradient over a wide space will cause banding. In this example, I prefer to create my gradient in PhotoShop, add a small amount of noise, and place in AI.

Sometimes, if you have a good printer, you can talk to their press people about how best to create a gradient for printing on their equipment.

Sometimes there are obvious things you can do to improve the results but I need some more information about the tint you are using and what type of device you are printing to.

Please send me the file, with everything stripped out but the gradient object(s). I use CS3 exclusively, so please Save your AI document for CS3.

Thanks!
AmyLynPace@yahoo.com