What is Ink Coverage?
Ink coverage in printing refers to the total percentage of a page covered by ink, calculated by adding the percentages of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black ink applied to that area. While light coverage can be as simple as lines of text on a white page, heavy coverage (like full-bleed backgrounds or large areas of solid color) means denser saturation. Heavy coverage requires
What Role Does Print Coverage Play in Design?
Heavy ink coverage is often used to create dramatic, eye-catching designs. Designers can use this technique to:
- Create solid backgrounds, whether a vivid color or intense black, that can achieve the look of colored paper without the added cost
- Give printed pieces a lavish look and feel
- Craft full-page images and bold designs that attract and hold attention
Now, heavy coverage does not come without risks. If your paper choice isn’t up to the task, you may run into a variety of challenges related to ink density or paper quality. That’s where Cougar® paper makes a difference. For example, higher ink density means richer color, but too much ink can result in loss of shadow detail and can cause type and images to “plug up.” A smooth, well-formed uncoated surface (like Cougar) can help control ink density, hold out details, and resist dot gain.
Why Cougar is the Right Paper Choice
Cougar has been trusted for decades due to its ability to elevate print projects. By using Cougar’s bright white or natural shades as a base, you can simulate the look of colored paper through heavy ink coverage and give your project a custom look without the added cost of specialty paper. With its high opacity, smooth surface, and optimized formation, Cougar delivers:
- Even, smooth areas of solid color
- Vibrant, consistent color
- Crisp, clear details that leap off the page
- Greater efficiency and added savings from a sheet built for performance
Domtar prides itself for having stringent manufacturing processes that ensure our products are made to the highest quality so that you can design and print with confidence.
The best way to understand how Cougar handles heavy ink coverage is to see it in action. Paper Trails Volume 3: Make the Journey Colorful showcases rich photography, full-bleed designs, and solid backgrounds that put Cougar’s smooth, even print coverage on display.
Request your copy today and discover how Cougar helps you blaze new creative trails.
