1
How do you select the colors for the FHI system?
In today’s complex and challenging marketplace, color is often that catalyst that sparks the sale, defines the space, and creates the mood. We select colors for the FHI system based on three important and distinct criteria. First, our global team of color trend forecasters look at the movement of color trends to ensure your palettes are fresh, modern, and relevant. Of course, we also understand the importance of core colors and the integral role they play in building your seasonal color stories. Therefore, we look at the color needs of the industries we serve and those we would like to better impact to ensure a comprehensive set of core and trend shades. Lastly, we only select colors that are easily achievable and reproducible, for greater usability and efficiency.
2
How is Pantone's lacquer coating on paper produced?
Our FHI paper products use a nitrocellulose coating on paper developed through a pigment formulation. New colors are matched against the Pantone SMART Swatch cotton standard for color consistency. Colors are visually evaluated and also measured using a 45 degree viewing angle under controlled lighting.
3
Can the Textile Paper Guide (TPG) be used for textile applications?
To ensure the closest visual match, we recommend using the material format that is closest to your end use application. We recommend our textile cotton products (TCX) for all fabric applications. Because each material takes color differently, the same color in cotton, plastic, and on lacquered paper can vary slightly.
4
When do I use the lacquered coating vs plastics?
Use lacquered coating for product applications that require a coated finish or are developed with colored pigments. Use plastics for applications using plastic materials. For example, a metal zipper painted red would use the lacquered coating, whereas a red plastic zipper would use the plastics standard.
5
How does the naming convention work for FHI colors?
Each FHI System color has a unique name and number, such as in 15-1247 Tangerine. That color is then differentiated across materials through a unique suffix. For lacquered coatings, the color would be noted as 15-1247 TPG Tangerine. For cotton, it would be noted as 15-1247 TCX Tangerine. And, for plastics, it would be noted as PQ 15-1247 TCX Tangerine.
For lacquered coating, the suffix TPG stands for ‘Textile Paper Green’. This suffix replaced the TPX system in 2015 by reformulating the colors to meet international environmental standards. If you are still using the TPX system, it is time to upgrade to TPG system.
6
Why should you update your Pantone Guides & Books?
Over time, paper will yellow and inks & dyes will fade. Handling, light, humidity, and oil will cause colors to become inaccurate. Plus, you could be missing the latest market and trend driven colors.