DESCRIPTION : QCM INK COMPANY is a plastisol ink color matching system that incorporates simplicity, accuracy and repeatability. The system is licensed by PANTONE, the standard of the color industry, and produces simulated Pantone colors using “Finished” inks as opposed to the base/concentrate systems. The QMX system provides for “most exact color” in its Pantone licensed formulations. Plastisol ink color matching has never been easier or more accurate. All of the colors in this system have been mixed, test printed on T-shirt fabric and rated as to cured color match and opacity. There are 13 colors plus base in the system and formulations are based on weight.

This unique system provides the color mixer and printer with “opacity ratings” that help predetermine printing parameters. By using these ratings the printer can decide that screen mesh is required, if under basing is recommended etc. Each color formulation has opacity rating information.

Your formula book, included with the system, gives your formula weights for mixing either pints, quarts, or gallons, as the job requires.

MIXING : If your are new to color matching it is a good idea to spend some time setting up your mixing area. Designate a particular space and put up some shelves as well as installing a bench or table to work at. Cleanliness is a major factoring the ink matching area and arranges all your mixing tools at arms reach.

SCALE : A digital scale is best as weighing accuracy is critical. Scales that re-zero” after each color addition speeds up the process and a scale with two decimals add accuracy. However, one tenth of gram accuracy is essential. The scale must be on a solid bench.

GOOD LIGHTING : All matches were done in daylight color corrected neon. Difficult matches like face tones will be easier to repeat with proper light.

STRIKE OFF : All matches were struck on 60/40% white poly/cotton swatches through a 156-mesh screen using a 60/90/60 squeegee. Set up a screen for easy strike off.

CURING : All QMX colorants are curable at 320 deg. F. for 60 to 90 seconds. Cure your struck color sample before matching to the Pantone Color Guide.

TEST BEFORE PRINTING : Plastisol ink mixing systems produce only “simulations” of Pantone Colors. Equipment, printing procedures and techniques vary from shop to shop and due to the variable encountered with textile printing, QCM Company and Pantone, Inc. C cannot be responsible for actual color reproduction on the substrate. Test printing of the matched color is essential prior to the production run.