Stuttgart Media University and GMG Academy Offer Hands-On Gravure and Color Management Training
Gravure at Your Fingertips
von Ansgar Wessendorf,
Stuttgart Media University (HdM), in cooperation with GMG Academy, will host two consecutive professional training events in early March 2026 focusing on gravure printing and color management. The program combines a Basic Gravure Seminar (March 3–5) with a Color Day workshop (March 5–6), offering participants a comprehensive, practice-oriented introduction to modern gravure production and color standardization.
Stuttgart Media University is currently the only university in Europe operating a complete gravure line, from cylinder preparation through to a rotogravure printing press. This unique infrastructure allows participants to experience the entire gravure process chain in a realistic production environment and to evaluate quality at every stage using specialized measurement methods.
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Basic Gravure Seminar (March 3–5)
The three-day introductory seminar provides a structured overview of gravure printing in both theory and practice. Topics range from copper electroplating and cylinder surface processing to layout preparation, electromechanical engraving, and printing on various paper substrates with different ink viscosities. In addition to conventional engraving, the course covers modern cylinder imaging technologies such as laser-assisted etching and laser engraving, as well as current developments in cylinder surface technologies.
All process steps are carried out directly on the equipment in the cylinder preparation laboratory and the gravure printing department. Participants design a layout, assist in cylinder preparation and engraving, and print their own cylinders on different substrates. Each stage is accompanied by quality control using appropriate measurement systems.
The seminar is aimed at employees of gravure printers, cylinder engravers, reproduction houses, as well as paper, substrate, and ink manufacturers. It is also suitable for newcomers to the gravure industry seeking a comprehensive overview of the process chain. The course is not intended as advanced operator training for highly experienced gravure specialists. Participation is limited to ten people to ensure intensive, hands-on involvement at every production stage.
Color Day by GMG Academy (March 5–6)
Following the gravure seminar, the two-day Color Day workshop focuses on digital color management and standardization in gravure printing. Led by color management experts from GMG together with specialists from the gravure department at Stuttgart Media University, the workshop addresses the precise control and optimization of color through print data preparation, proofing, and press setup.
Participants will learn how to accurately match digital color targets on press and apply best practices in color measurement and evaluation to ensure consistency throughout the production process. Practical sessions include print file preparation, proofing, press profiling, and detailed print evaluation. The program also introduces advanced techniques such as Expanded Color Gamut (ECG) printing, highlighting new opportunities for efficiency and creative flexibility in gravure production.
The Color Day is designed for technical staff involved in gravure printing across the production chain, as well as for managers seeking a deeper understanding of current and future developments in gravure color management.
Together, the two events offer a rare opportunity to gain hands-on experience with gravure printing and color management in a fully equipped academic production environment—bridging theory, practice, and current industry requirements.
Additional details and registration information can be found here.
