Colours are a language we all understand - but only if we share the same vocabulary. That's why globally recognised colour charts are used in architecture, design and glass decoration. These allow unambiguous communication between customer, designer and manufacturer.

Overview of the most commonly used systems

The following colour systems are the most frequently encountered in our work:

- RAL Classic - the most popular in architecture, construction and industry.

- RAL Design - a more precise system with more shades, used in interiors

- Pantone - widely used in decoration, printing and design

- NCS (Natural Colour System) - a system based on human perception of colour, common in e.g. Scandinavia

But big brands often create their own corporate shades - an iconic example is Ferrari Red, which cannot be accurately translated into any swatch, yet is universally recognisable.

What systems do our customers use?

In the world of glass, there is no one-size-fits-all answer - but there are some rules:

- Architects and flat glass manufacturers use RAL most often.

- Designers of shaped and gift glass or glass packaging more often reach for the Pantone pattern

- Specific projects may require a custom pattern or visual continuity with an older decoration

For this reason, we always ask for the name of the shade, but also the context in which the colour will be used.

But beware: glass ≠ paper

All of the above mentioned swatches are printed on opaque materials - more often than not paper (matt or glossy).

However, glass is almost always clear, transparent, and therefore behaves quite differently in the light.

For this reason, the comparison of colours applied to glass by paper swatches is to some extent subjective - and the more transparent the shade, the more the final effect can vary.

With opaque colours the matching is easier and more predictable.

What we can do with our lab

Over 34 years, we have created thousands of colour formulas - for different paint application technologies and glass types. When we don't have a recipe, we develop it in our dedicated, state-of-the-art laboratory.

When developing a shade, we take into account:

-The optical properties of the glass (clarity, coloration, gloss...)

- The method ofapplying the colour (screen printing, spraying, rollercoater...)

- The thickness of the application, which has a significant influence on the final perception of the shade

And if you need to match the new decor with previously painted glass? In this case, it is best if you supply us with a real sample.

Do you need to produce a specific shade?

Whether you have a specific code from RAL, Pantone, etc., or just a physical sample of decorated glass, we can help you find or develop a matching formula.

Final tip: Colour changes with lighting

When considering the hue of a color , don't forget the effect of light. The color you see is always the result of the interaction of the applied color, the substrate and the lighting of the moment - its color and intensity.

For objective assessment, we recommend using so-called light boxes that allow you to switch between standardized lighting conditions. The most commonly used standard is D65 daylight, but can also be tested under artificial cool or artificial warm lighting.

Note: If the shade is agreed under other than daylight, it is important to perform subsequent checks under the same lighting conditions. Otherwise, the color may appear to "not match" - even if it is physically identical (see, for example, the Metamerie problem).

The article was written by:
David Batla
Owner of GDS Technology s.r.o.

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