I just uploaded a digitally rendered version of the watermarked
paper compared to standard white stock. The special paper is either
24 or 28-lb. stock (which is what I used previously anyway), and
there were no instances of the colors rubbing off or anything.
Believe me, I researched viable options for several weeks before
deciding to purchase a sample run of this paper. I didn't want to
use it if it compromised the quality of the artwork. The only
noticeable change is that the art may appear a bit darker, which can
be corrected at the controls prior to printing. And unless you
actually place the artwork next to something printed on pure white
paper, it's a bit difficult to tell that it's grey. I spoke with
some reps from the paper company, and they stated that it is not
possible to produce copy-protected paper in white. My only options
were light pink, light grey, or light blue. Figuring that light grey
would be the least troublesome to color-correct, I went with that
option.
As you guys have pointed out, it's likely the complaining
individuals did indeed notice the paper after trying to scan them
into their computers. Their intent may not have been malicious, but
there's no way to circumvent the watermark even if it was noble.
Yeah, I reckon I'll stick with this paper. The vast majority of
the votes seem to support that option. The reason I posted this
matter on the group was because this is a place where most of the
folks who like my art can gather, and I thought that the best avenue
for getting reactions. Let's face it, there are numerous infantile
people on some of the imageboards. Starting a discussion on the
watermark subject may initiate an unwarranted flame war. I felt it
was best to avoid all of that.
I also noticed that, as you increase the scan resolution, the
watermark becomes far more pronounced. So perhaps illegal hi-res
scans may result in severe watermarking.
Regarding the "numbered folio" option: I had indeed considered
that. But it would take a lot of extra effort to keep track of stuff
like that, not to mention I would have to deal with direct sales
again (since I cannot expect Ed Zolna to try to keep track of who's
buying what. That guy is busy enough as is!). Plus, once the
pictures were posted online, the damage would already be done. Sure,
I could find out who did it, but the pics would already be all over
the place, and continuing to print the rest of the folios on special
paper would then be a moot point.
On a more pleasant note, I'm going to post a "never-before-seen"
Des Lee Dragontail picture on F-chan and Onechan later tonight after
dinner. I found one of them; the other still eludes me. So if
you're into that kinda thing, check it out. I'll probably be back
online to post it around 10pm EST.
--JMH
Received on Thu Jan 19 2006 - 15:30:12 CST