Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 6/28/2011

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
Background: I recently created a logo design (Attachment partial sample of  smallest size used). I started out with each fish being approximately 1"-1.25" in length. They were nothing more than simple shapes (line art) distorted using envelope distort/mesh. I then played around with each one to tweak the individual shape, converted each to a compound path. The separate fish then made up the final shape for the logo final design and I grouped them together. Then I added a 2-color (CYMK) gradient to each individual fish shape. It was the only way i could think of to get the head and tail the darker color and the mid section the lighter color. All was done in Illustrator CS4.

The original size was used on T-shirts and  was then reduced to 25% for print work on paper products, at 35% for sublimation printing on ceramic mugs and enlarged 1200% for use on a paper poster. I originally knew nothing of the 25% and the 1200% applications.

At the original size the gradient was applied to each individual fish whose individual size ranged between 1"-2.25" in length. I later copied the file and reduced it to 25% and reapplied a similar 2-color gradient but this time I applied the gradient to the entire logo instead of each separate fish since the overall logo design was tiny at only 2.25W x1.25H. The 35% reduction was used on the mugs but the client wanted the gradient applied individually to each fish because they liked the way the T-shirts looked even though they didn't print perfectly. With the 1200% enlargement for the poster I just used the same gradient that was in the original version for the T-shirts. I didn't reapply it or adjust the gradient because it looked fine on the screen even though the file was enlarged by 1200%. It actually didn't look any different.

My Problem and my Question: The poster looked the best but it wasn't a real smooth 2-color gradient similar to what we saw on my computer screen. It seemed more blotchy but at least one could kind of tell it was a two color gradient. The T-shirts looked about the same. The mugs didn't look like there was a smooth two-color gradient but the color looked streaky. On the smallest logo, (printed on various paper products), the gradient was used on the entire logo instead of the individual fish, The look gave the impression the mid section of the logo was lighter but it varied according to the paper stock used. I might have done better with a lighter color for more of a contrast.

What did I do wrong with the files and how can I adjust these files for future printings? It seemed like each vendor (printer) had something negative to say about the files but offered little in the way of constructive feedback. I only spoke with two of them on the phone and I tried to get more involved but the client took charge since they are in another state. I stressed things like getting press proofs and a sample mug done so if my files needed be adjusted it could be done before printing these items but they didn't seem to see the importance.  The printers basically said "yeah we can print it" and didn't have time to answer any questions. They just wanted a .pdf file and the Illustrator files.

Sorry this is so lengthy but I thank you ahead of time even for one bit  assistance, Sparkie H.

ANSWER: Hi Sparkle,

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. This was a long message and it looks like it got hung up in the system.

What you are experiencing is a common issue with gradients called banding. This is nothing new and to the experienced user, would be expected with the applications you are describing. Illustrator has difficulty creating smooth gradients unless you follow some guidelines. Remember, this is a vector program so it is creating the gradient using lines of color, not pixels like Photoshop.  

Gradients will always look good on screen. The issue comes when you are printing. Gradients normally need around 255 lines of color to create a smooth appearance. Reducing your file 25/35% meant you suddenly were faced with a very small space to achieve this and it was impossible to fit that many bands into that space, so the colors bunched up and banding occurred. There is not much you can do with an overall size so small with so many components.

The other issue is you should be designing these items as close to 100% of the sizes you need instead of letting your printers enlarge or reduce them. This way you can reapply the gradients properly instead of leaving it to chance. This is probably why you printer was not happy with the files.


I would suggest you talk to your printers before giving them files next time to ask their advice on the best way to achieve the look you want. Printing on mugs uses a completely different process compared to printing on posters and shirts, which means different designs need to be made.

Thanks

Kevin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Kevin,

Thank you for your reply. Very clear! Very appreciated!!

I have to fix these files and resubmit them to the client so I do have a few more questions.

I did remove the gradient before copying and scaling down to the two smallest sizes. The printer did receive a correctly sized logo for each project so it must be how tiny the fish were. Is there anyway to set up the gradient that would help ie:  does the angle matter or how I set up the gradient?

Also,  would I have better luck with the gradient if I took the original Illustrator file, removed the gradient, sized it appropriately and then brought it into Photoshop CS4 to add the gradient????  Would it make a decent improvement on how the gradient printed?  Would the image and type still print sharp and clear? I'm not very familiar with Photoshop so what is the best way to bring the Illustrator file (.ai) into Photoshop?  And, what is the best type of file (.jpg or .pdf) to give future printers that would print gradient and art sharp and clear?

I've got soooo much to learn! Thanks for your assistance. It's hard to find very specific information in reference books.

Thanks Again, Sparkie H

Answer
Hey Sparkle,

My best advice is to talk to your printers. They can be a great asset for you when designing these items. The Photoshop suggestion would be normally a good idea, but again, if they need a certain file type then it might not work.

Thanks

Kevin