Clemson, SC April 10, 2008 -- "One of the most reported headaches and problems from the label and packaging industry is getting predictable color on the flexo press. Companies coming to Clemson University and other sources for training are constantly inquiring about the power of proofing solutions to predict color with a variety of methods and technologies currently available," states Jay Sperry of Clemson University. That's why last year the Clemson Department of Graphic Communications formed a committee of industry leaders to produce a new event in their Seminar Series titled Digital Proofing for Flexography.

The program was so popular last year with over 60 practitioners, proofing vendors and experts attending one of the two back-to-back sessions, that the program is schedule to return this May 13-16th in twin sessions again. The two sessions ensure that the numbers stay small, below 30, for the best hands-on experience. The seminar is a co-sponsored for the second year by the Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association (FFTA).

"Proofing for flexography has been a hot topic of conversation over the years. With advances in technology, it can be difficult to keep up," says Roy Bohnen, Tekgraf/New Vision Services and seminar content advisor. "Where do the traditional proofing workflows excel, and where can inkjet be used? Which RIP's offer the appropriate workflow tools? How should we deal with Spot Colors and Metallics? These questions and more will be addressed over this two day event. Likewise, all the industry experts available and product demonstrations offer a unique inside look into where we are today, as well as insight into future development."

Presenting Expert Slated
Some of those committee members that helped shape this program, recognized experts in the field of proofing, have stayed on as key presenters for the weeklong event again this year. The program is lead by Jay Sperry, a member of the faculty of the Department of Graphic Communication and Research Assistant with the New Sonoco Institute of Packaging Design and Graphics. Joining the panel of presenters is the Sonoco Institute's Director, Chip Tonkin, a long time Manager of International Papers Food and Beverage Prepress Center, Richard Black of the Pre-press Solutions Division, All Printing Resources Inc., Roy Bohnen, Director of Technology, Tekgraf-New Vision. Joining the group to discuss expanded gamut proofing will be John Weissberg of Print Science.

"Test Drive" Breakout Sessions:
The Seminar Series are focused day-and-a-half events held at Clemson University that address specific problems within a growth area of our industry. Like most of Clemson seminar series and symposia events, the attendees split their time in between a mix of presentations and discussions led by these experts and hands-on activities, in this case proofing evaluations led by the proofing vendors themselves. This is an opportunity to actually "kick the tires" on a range of proofing technologies that will be available for hands-on proof production in the breakouts including digital halftone, expanded colorant inkjet, continuous and halftone inkjet, soft proofing, multiple color management systems, and more.

Vendors Providing Proofing Systems and Technicians:
CGS ORIS,
Kodak,
Latran Technologies,
ESKOArtwork
EFI
PrefectProof

Sample of Topics Covered will include:
- Checklist approach to verifying contract proof accuracy
- Review of the characterization process and press data required
- Proofing spot colors, overprint prediction, substrate texture and minimum dots
- Range of current proofing technologies on the market
- RIP's and the proofing workflow
- Remote proofing
- Proofing 7-color process and expanded gamut

Seminar Will Benefit a Wide Range
Professional in a range of flexo and packaging segments who deal with proof to press issues along the workflow will find this information useful including: Prepress and Graphic Designers, Sales Managers, Advertising, Marketing and Brand Managers as well as Production and Quality Assurance staff.

Golf Outing:
After an intensive day-and-a-half of programs, a golf outing is palnned for Wednesday, May 14th at Clemson's renowned Walker Course; Training club for Clemson's highly ranked NCAA teams includes finishing holes that follow beautiful Lake Hartwell.

Date, Cost, and Registration:
This seminar will be held May 13-14 and May 15-16, with the golf outing the afternoon of May 14. Each session is limited to 30 attendees. Registration is $495 per person, with a group rate of $450 for three or more.

For more information and to register, visit http://graphics.clemson.edu/ITC, email Duane Woolbright at [email protected], or call (864) 656-7664.