Why you should request a Colour Chart from your Supplier

As a textile print designer, achieving accurate colour matching is essential for bringing your print to life. One valuable tool that aids in this process is requesting a Pantone colour, RGB or HEX chart printed onto fabric from your supplier. This tool can make decision making easy, especially when picking solid colours, or main colours in a print.

Here are some reasons designers should consider requesting a Pantone colour chart on fabric from their supplier:

1. Precision in Color Matching: Pantone is a globally recognised color matching system used across various industries, including design, fashion, and printing. By having a Pantone color chart printed onto fabric from your supplier, you ensure precise colour matching between different materials and products - such as your computer or phone screen and the ink that comes from their printers. While Pantone colours are and should always be globally recognised, it is important to note that two printers may print the same colour chart, and the colour codes may still not match. This is due to different inks, printers and fabric compositions across different suppliers. That is why it is best to get a chart printed from the supplier you intend to print your final order with. 
2. Communication with Suppliers: Including a Pantone color chart in your communication with fabric suppliers establishes a clear reference point for colour expectations. Across multiple products or rounds of sampling. They know how the colour you are referring to will print, and so do you. This reduces the chances of misunderstandings or discrepancies in colour interpretation. Suppliers can use the Pantone chart that they have printed as a guide to ensure they match the exact shade you require, resulting in a seamless collaboration process. 
3. Quality Control: With a Pantone color chart on fabric, designers can conduct thorough quality control checks during the production process. By comparing fabric samples to the colours specified on the chart, designers can identify any deviations and address them before finalising the product. This proactive approach helps maintain high standards and meets client expectations.
4. Visualizing Colour in Context: Seeing how colors appear on the fabric samples helps provide a more realistic and practical perspective compared to digital swatches alone. Designers can assess how colors interact with different textures and lighting conditions, leading to informed color decisions that resonate with the intended aesthetic of the project.

In conclusion, designers can benefit greatly from having a color chart printed onto fabric from their supplier. From ensuring precise color matching to improving communication with suppliers and enhancing overall quality control, this tool plays a vital role in elevating the design process. By embracing the Pantone color system on fabric, designers can create cohesive and visually impactful designs that meet industry standards and exceed client expectations.