Workflow: Preparing Images for Print with Adobe Photoshop
This guide outlines the professional workflow for preparing images, generated via AI, to be
printed on Catalyst equipment with high precision, or on most print platforms..
1. Cleanup and Upscaling
● Remove Artifacts: Use the Healing Brush Tool to remove unwanted elements, logos, or
watermarks to ensure the final output contains only the necessary information.
● Generative Upscale: Navigate to Image > Generative Upscale to increase the image
resolution, ensuring high-quality printing for large-scale output.
2. Layer Management
● Preserve Originals: Always maintain a copy of the original file before working on the
project.
● Remove Background: Remove the background and use the Crop Tool to match the
canvas size to the final artwork dimensions.
3. Creating Print Channels (Varnish & White)
Catalyst printers use specific channels for Varnish and White ink.
A. Varnish Channel
● Create Selection: Hold Ctrl and click the image layer to select all colored pixels.
● Invert: Go to Select > Inverse to invert the selection.
● New Channel: In the Channels panel, select New Spot Channel and set the Solidity to
100%. Name this channel "Varnish".
B. White Underbase
● Select Area: Use the Color Range tool to select specific colors (e.g., black) to serve as
the base.
● Invert: Ensure the selection is inverted as needed.
● Paint: Use the Paint Bucket Tool to fill the channel. Areas painted in black indicate
where ink will be applied; white areas represent no ink.
● Spot Color: Set the channel to Spot Color with 100% solidity and name it "White
Underbase".
4. Final Review
● Visibility: Turn off the color layers temporarily to verify that the Varnish and White
Underbase channels contain the correct data.
● Save: Save your work as a PSD or TIFF file to ensure compatibility with your RIP
software.
Tip: Adjust the Fuzziness slider in the Color Range menu to control how much of the image is
included in your selection. A value around 50–100 is typically effective for standard designs.