In this article, we will discuss the last two factors which distinguishes art book printing from trade book printing. That is Quality Control and Industry knowledge.
Less stringent quality standards:
Quality control is generally less stringent for Trade books, as the content does not usually require the same level of detail and aesthetic precision.
Higher Quality Standards:
Art books require the highest quality standards due to the fine details, subtle color variations, and overall aesthetic importance of the artwork.
Fewer checkpoints:
Popular book printing may involve fewer checkpoints, such as:
1️⃣ Preflight inspection: Basic inspection of file quality and potential problems.
2️⃣ Proof Approval: Approve digital proofs without much review on color accuracy and overall quality.
3️⃣ Final Inspection: Basic inspection of the finished product to check for major defects.
Multi-Level Inspection Process:
Art book printing involves multiple stages of rigorous quality control measures, including:
1️⃣ Preflight: Evaluate digital files for image quality, color accuracy, and potential problems.
2️⃣ Proofing: Create and approve physical proofs (white and color swatches) to ensure accurate color representation, layout, and overall quality.
3️⃣ Production Monitoring: Closely monitor the printing process to identify and resolve any deviations from quality standards.
4️⃣ Bulk sample inspection: Check the finished product for defects such as color inconsistency, registration errors or paper flaws.
5️⃣ Shipping inspection: The final quality inspection before shipment from the factory, such as spot checking finished products, unpacking and inspecting boxes, checking box marks, etc.
1️⃣ General printing expertise:
Popular book printers have basic printing expertise and can handle a wide range of book printing projects.
2️⃣ Adherence to Standard Printing Practices:
They follow standard printing practices and quality control procedures to produce quality books.
3️⃣ Limited experience with specialized techniques:
While they may handle some specialized techniques, they may not have the same expertise as an art book printer in reproducing fine art.
1️⃣ Expertise:
Trusted art book printers have in-depth knowledge and experience handling high-quality artwork reproduction. They understand the nuances of color management, paper selection, and printing techniques specific to art books.
2️⃣ Familiarity with art industry standards:
Art book printers are familiar with industry standards and best practices for art printing, ensuring that the final product meets the expectations of artists, publishers, and collectors.
3️⃣ Experience with complex printing techniques:
Art book printers have the ability to handle complex printing techniques such as random screening, color matching, and special effects to achieve the desired visual effect.
In summary, printing art books demands a higher level of expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and adherence to rigorous quality control standards compared to printing general-purpose books. This is evident in the selection of materials, printing technologies, inspection processes, and a comprehensive understanding of the art industry's needs.
It's important to note that art book printing isn't necessarily superior or the absolute best. Different books serve different purposes. The most appropriate choice lies in selecting printing methods and printers that align with those goals.