värviregister

Värviregister, often translated as color register or color registry, is a fundamental concept in printing and graphic design. It refers to the precise alignment of the different color plates used in a printing process to create a complete, multi-colored image. In subtractive color printing, the most common method for producing full-color images, four primary colors are used: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK). Each of these colors is printed from a separate plate, and for the final image to appear correctly, these plates must be perfectly superimposed.

When the color plates are not properly aligned, a printing defect known as misregistration occurs. This results in the appearance of unwanted color fringes or halos around objects and text. For instance, if the magenta plate is slightly shifted relative to the cyan and yellow plates, a blue object might appear with a reddish or greenish outline. Achieving accurate color registration is crucial for professional printing quality, especially for detailed images, fine lines, and text.

Printers use various techniques and equipment to ensure proper color register. This includes precise plate making, accurate setup of the printing press, and the use of registration marks. These marks, often small crosses or lines printed at the edges of the paper, are used by press operators to visually check and adjust the alignment of the plates during the printing run. Modern printing presses often incorporate automated systems for maintaining color register, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste. The concept of color register is also relevant in digital imaging and display technologies, where it pertains to the accurate reproduction of colors across different devices and media.