Processes
2540dpi ultra-high-definition

Stochastic Screening

Stochastic Screening has been refined by Pressision (we call this Ultra) and has been an integral part of our lithographic printing technique since 2014. Also known as frequency modulation or FM screening, it is a method of printing that offers superior image quality compared to traditional halftone printing.

Instead of using a grid of dots to create shades of colour, Ultra relies on small randomly placed dots. This results in a much finer and more consistent level of detail, colour accuracy and tonal range.

At Pressision, we strive to ensure that our printing methods are not only efficient but also environmentally conscious, which is why we choose lithographic printing. This technique is ideal for higher quantities due to its speed, providing an economical option without compromising quality.

We have incorporated the use of vegetable oil-based inks that provide a greener and more sustainable approach to printing. Our extensive range of ink options includes the entire Pantone range, metallic, fluorescent, invisible, and thermochromic inks.

Stochastic Screening | FM Screening | Ultra by Pressision

Why Stochastic Screening matters

  • No rosettes, virtually no moiré: fabrics, meshes and fine repeats reproduce cleanly.
  • Photographic look - Open highlights/shadows with superior detail, colour accuracy, and tonal range.
  • Litho speed and economy - Perfect for higher quantities, fast makereadies, stable long runs.
  • Proven in production - Our Ultra curves and targets keep results consistent job-to-job.

Creative printing

  • True full-FM across the scale - Constant micro-dot size (no AM/XM hybrid).
  • Micro-dot detail - Typically ~10–25 μm classes for ultra-fine rendering.
  • Plays nicely with finishes - FM detail shines under foil, emboss, soft-touch and spot UV.
  • Ink flexibility works with our litho ink set - Pantone®, metallic, fluorescent, invisible UV and thermochromic options.

What this unlocks for your project

  • Luxury covers and art books with silky vignettes and crisp micro-detail.
  • Brand patterns and textiles that stay clean, no screen clashes.
  • Packaging and product shots with sharp edges and photographic depth.

Tech specs at a glance

  • Platform - Komori B2 litho
  • Screen type - Full FM (stochastic), constant micro-dot size (no hybrid).
  • Typical dot size ~10–25 μm (stock/application dependent).
  • Inks: Vegetable oil-based litho inks - Full Pantone® range plus metallic, fluorescent, invisible UV, thermochromic specialties.

Colour you can trust

We calibrate FM tone curves to recognised standards and run closed-loop colour on press, so what you approve is what you get, from first good sheet to last.

Sustainability & Safety

Litho is efficient for volume - Fewer changeovers, stable long runs and less waste. Our vegetable oil-based inks support a greener approach; we’ll also advise stocks/finishes to meet recyclability goals.

Stochastic Screening FAQ's

Essential tips and guidance to ensure your next project runs seamlessly.

Do I need different artwork?
No, just supply clean, high-res imagery (300–400 ppi) and avoid heavy sharpening.
Will large flat tints look grainy?
FM nails vignettes and detail, for ultra-smooth flats we’ll recommend a laminate or varnish.
What is FM (stochastic) screening in plain terms?
It uses tiny, constant-size dots spaced by frequency (not size/angles), so there are no rosettes and almost no moiré.
Still have questions?

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Let’s turn your creative ideas into a reality

Contact a Pressision Account Manager.