Setting up white ink in Adobe Illustrator can be a bit tricky, as it requires some extra steps to achieve the desired effect. White ink is usually used in print designs on darker backgrounds to make the content stand out. Here are the steps to set up for white ink in Adobe Illustrator:
Step 1: Create a New Document
Open Adobe Illustrator and create a new document by clicking on “File” and then “New.” Choose the size and orientation of your document based on your design requirements.
Step 2: Choose a Dark Background
If you are planning to use white ink for a design that will be printed on a dark background, it’s important to set up your artboard with the appropriate background color. You can do this by creating a rectangle the same size as your artboard and coloring it with the dark background color you plan to use.
Step 3: Add Your Design Elements
Add the design elements you want to print with white ink on the artboard. This can include text, graphics, or any other elements you want to emphasize with white ink.
Step 4: Create a Spot Color
To set up for white ink, you need to create a spot color for the white ink. To do this, go to the “Swatch” panel and click on the small menu icon in the top right corner. Select “New Color Swatch” and from the color type drop-down menu, choose “Spot Color.” Name the spot color as “White Ink.”
Step 5: Apply the White Ink Spot Color
Now, select the design elements that you want to print with white ink and apply the spot color “White Ink” to them. You can do this by using the “Fill” or “Stroke” options in the toolbar and selecting the spot color you created in the previous step.
Step 6: Save the File
After setting up the design with white ink, it’s important to save the file in a format that supports spot colors, such as PDF or EPS. When saving the file, make sure to select the option to “Preserve Spot Colors” to ensure the white ink is retained in the final output.
Step 7: Communicate with Your Printer
Before sending the file to the printer, it’s crucial to communicate with them about the use of white ink and provide any specific instructions they may need for the printing process. This can include details about the spot color setup and any other considerations for printing on a dark background.
In conclusion, setting up for white ink in Adobe Illustrator involves creating a spot color for the white ink, applying it to the design elements, and saving the file in a compatible format. By following these steps and communicating effectively with your printer, you can ensure that your white ink design turns out as intended and stands out on darker backgrounds.
