Why Dot Gain Happens

Ink absorption into paper fibres

Ink viscosity

Paper surface texture

Printing pressure

Blanket compression (in offset)

Environmental humidity

If not compensated:

Mid-tones become darker

Shadows close up

Fine details disappear

Contrast becomes muddy

On coated paper, dot gain is lower. On uncoated or textured paper, dot gain is higher.

Dot gain occurs due to: