Against the Grain

This printing term refers to the direction in which paper fibers are oriented on a sheet of paper. Printing "against the grain" means printing at a 90-degree angle to the paper's fiber direction. This term is vital to achieve the best print quality and minimize paper-related issues in the printing process.

Against the grain

Synonym

Cross Grain Printing

Examples

  1. "For this high-quality brochure, it's crucial to print against the grain to ensure sharp, clear images."
  2. "Cross grain printing is recommended for projects where paper strength and stability are paramount."
  3. "To prevent paper curling, the printer suggested printing against the grain for this large poster."

Recommendations: 

When printing "against the grain" or using the synonym "cross grain printing," here are some recommendations to consider.

Paper Selection: Choose paper that suits your project's needs while being mindful of grain direction. Ensure your paper supplier is aware of your requirements.

Communication: Communicate the importance of grain direction to your printer or designer to avoid potential issues and ensure optimal print quality.

Quality Control: Implement quality control measures to check for paper-related problems, such as curling or ink absorption, during the printing process.

Expertise: Rely on the expertise of professionals in the print and bindery industry to guide you in making the best grain-related decisions for your project.