A new customer is insisting we print his process brochures on uncoated paper. What do we need to know regarding printing process color on uncoated paper?

Uncoated paper is very absorbent and has a rough surface. There is more variation in the print quality of different uncoated sheets compared to smooth surface coated sheets. Ink will absorb into the sheet, causing lower solid ink densities and spread out more, resulting in an increased dot gain. Solid process ink densities are typically .30-.40 density points lower than on coated paper. Lower ink density results in a reduced color gamut, meaning not as many colors can be reproduced. Because of the increased dot gain with uncoated paper, coarser screen rulings are used--a 110 line screen is not uncommon, and some may use a 150 or slightly higher screen ruling. Proofing systems are made to represent printing on coated paper and will not produce proofs that represent print on uncoated paper. Soft proofing on monitors and toner press proofing with a profile that represents the litho output can be used to proof the uncoated paper. Printing 4/C process on uncoated paper can be done for the aesthetic appeal of the paper, but it will not rival the quality and richness of 4/C printing on a good coated sheet.