Color Accuracy Assurance

An engineering guide to color reproduction on textile substrates.

1. Color Model Physics

The perceived difference between screen and fabric originates in fundamental physics. Your monitor operates on an additive light model (RGB), while printing uses a subtractive pigment model (CMYK).

RGB (Screens)

  • Method: Additive (Emits Light)
  • Gamut: Wide, vibrant
  • Use Case: Digital Displays

CMYK (Print)

  • Method: Subtractive (Absorbs Light)
  • Gamut: Narrower, physical
  • Use Case: Textile & Paper

Therefore, exact color matching between screen and fabric requires calibration. We optimize our workflow for maximum fidelity within the physical CMYK gamut, ensuring consistent results across batches.

2. Key Process Variables

  • Substrate Texture: Ink absorption varies between 100% combed cotton and cotton/poly blends, creating natural variations in saturation. This is normal and expected.
  • Underbase Application: Dark garments require a white underbase layer for print vibrancy. This adds negligible thickness and creates a unique hand-feel in the print area.
  • Lighting Conditions: Colors may appear slightly different under daylight vs. fluorescent vs. warm indoor lighting. This is a natural optical property of how our eyes perceive color, not a print defect.

3. Acceptance Criteria & Safety

Our manufacturing partners use industry-leading direct-to-garment (DTG) printing systems to guarantee consistent, professional-grade results across all orders.

✅ Safe Water-Based Inks

All prints use water-based inks tested and certified for harmful substances, validated as safe for direct skin contact. Our manufacturing partners' inks meet international textile safety standards.  View full certifications →

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