WhiteLayer Studio knowledge
How the two-page PDF is structured
Both pages use the same paper size, orientation and artwork position. Production can therefore use the color and white information without repositioning. The white page contains only the intended underbase.
This is a handoff format for manual workflows. It does not replace RIP software or device-specific separations. Confirm that the recipient supports the structure before production.
Page 1: color artwork
The first page contains the visible color layer at final size. Transparent areas remain empty; the position and page geometry provide the reference for the white page.
Page 2: White Layer
The second page holds the underbase at the same coordinates. White values may describe full or graduated coverage depending on the workflow.
- No additional scaling or movement
- Identical page orientation
- A clearly identifiable second production page
Technical export checklist
Check the points that most often cause questions or failed prints.
- Exactly two pages in the agreed order
- Identical page size and artwork position
- Sufficient effective source resolution
- Correct mirroring for the transfer process
- No unintended print-dialog scaling
- Verified in an independent PDF viewer
File name and approval
Use a descriptive name with artwork, format and version, such as artwork-a4-v03.pdf. Approve it only after visual inspection and, for a new production profile, a test print.
Workflow
Step by step
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01
Choose final format
Set page size and orientation for the production order.
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02
Position color artwork
Scale and align the design within the usable area.
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03
Inspect the White Layer
Check coverage, edge, tonal value and knockouts.
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04
Export the PDF
Write both pages with identical geometry into one file.
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05
Verify the output
Independently inspect pages, dimensions, position and file name.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Why two pages instead of two layers?
A two-page PDF is easy to inspect in manual workflows. The production provider decides whether it is suitable; some systems require spot colors or layers instead.
Must both pages have the same size?
Yes. Different sizes or scaling can break registration between color and underbase.
Can I print the PDF directly?
Only if the production provider supports this structure and device settings are correct. Always test a new workflow.
Why is the White Layer page monochrome?
It represents white-ink distribution rather than a regular image. Light areas indicate white coverage; dark or empty areas remain without white.