Risographs use oil based inks in a variety of colours, designed specifically for the machines. We stock over 20 colours to choose from. Colours can be used in combination with transparency and overprinting techniques. Note that fluorescent colours and metallics do not display on computer screens. To see colours accurately purchase our Risograph swatchbook

The PMS and HEX values listed are approximations for reference only. Swatch books are available in our online store.

The Riso can accept paper sizes up to 12.5" x 17" and weights from 20# bond (75 gsm) to 100# cover (270 gsm) with a print area is 11.3" x 16.5". We keep white & natural / off white in 11.5" x 17" and a range of weights as house stock, coloured paper is available by special order.

Due to the nature of Riso ink, coated and smooth papers are unsuitable for printing. We have seen the best results with paper that is uncoated with a vellum finish (i.e. toothy)

We do not print on customer supplied paper.

Smudging: Risograph ink is made from a combination of soy-oil, water and pigment. Only some types of paper are suitable for printing with the Riso and the prints will always retain a newspaper like quality - with enough effort you will find that the ink can smudge and rub off onto your finger tips.

Roller marks: Heavy ink coverage in a print can often result in marks when printing successive layers or on the reverse side of the press sheet. The Riso feeds paper using a set of rubber tires that travel across the center of the sheet. When feeding paper that has already been printed this can often result in track marks on the lead edge of the sheet.

Uneven ink coverage: The Risograph creates prints using a rubber roller which presses the sheet of paper against the print drum as it spins. The speed of printing and surface of the roller do not create perfect impressions. Large flat areas of ink coverage can sometimes appear slightly uneven.

Registration & Trapping: Risographs are designed for simple 1 or 2 colour graphics. To get the best results when printing more complex artwork, it is important to include trapping. Trapping is the process of adding overlap between colours that interact in order to avoid gaps or white spaces in case of misregistration. If you have any questions or need help adding trapping we're happy to do so.

In order to take your project to print, please provide high-res greyscale pdfs for each layer of colour to be included in your project. Include between 1/8" - 1/4" bleed as well as a low resolution colour mockup. For book projects, we can also work from an Indesign layout. Text and solid lines should be prepared as bitmaps or vectors otherwise the Riso will attempt to apply a halftone pattern to them in print. For vector, please make sure that text is outlined. If you need any assistance with setting up your files for print, we're here to help!