How to Measure Printed Color

Printed color should be measured as part of a defined printing condition. Ink, substrate, screening, film weight, drying, coating and backing all influence the spectrum. A repeatable routine begins by fixing those variables and comparing production against the correct proof, spectral target or approved physical standard.

Define the target and decision

Identify whether the task is process control, proof conformity, spot-color approval, brand-color matching or finished-pack inspection. Record the target file or physical standard, its revision, the required measurement condition and the acceptance formula. Do not substitute a screen value, color-book appearance or unverified press sheet for a spectral target.

Prepare and condition the print

• Allow ink, toner, coating and adhesive to reach the specified dry or cured state.
• Keep the surface clean and flat without creases, fingerprints or scuffing.
• Use the required white, black or self backing and enough sheets when a stack is specified.
• Mark measurement locations away from edges, folds, barcodes and visible defects unless those are the inspection target.
• Keep substrate side, grain or machine direction and sample orientation consistent.

If the printed area is smaller than the aperture, use a smaller valid aperture or redesign the control patch. Never allow unprinted border, neighbouring color or a fold to enter the measurement area unnoticed.

Set and verify the instrument

Standardise or calibrate the instrument as instructed, then select the specified ISO 13655 condition—commonly M1 for contemporary D50 workflows. Lock geometry, aperture, backing, illuminant, observer, color space and Delta E formula. M0, M1, M2 and M3 data are not interchangeable. If optical brighteners are present, a UV mismatch can move the paper and printed color substantially.

Measure representative locations

Interpret the result in process context

Review total Delta E and the direction of lightness, chroma and hue error. If several colors drift together, first investigate substrate, instrument condition, density or color-management state. If one spot color moves, inspect ink strength, film weight, viscosity, trapping and contamination. Validate critical decisions visually under the applicable ISO 3664 viewing condition. Continue with Delta E in Printing, ISO 13655 Explained and Measuring Spot Colors.

Last reviewed 22/09/2026 · Level: Beginner

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