M Weight
The actual weight of 1,000 sheets of any given size of paper.
Machine Direction
An alternate term for grain direction. Reference: grain.
Magnetic Black
Black pigments containing black iron oxides, used for magnetic ink character recognition.
Make Ready
Process of adjusting final plate on the press to fine tune or modify plate surface.
Margin
Imprinted space around the edge of a page.
Mark Up
To write up instructions, as on a proof sheet.
Mask
1) The blocking out of a portion of the printing plate during the exposure process; 2) A photo negative or positive used in the color separation process to color correct.
Match Print
Photographic proof made from all color flats to form composite proof showing color quality as well as accuracy, layout and imposition before plates are made.
Matte Finish
A coated paper finish that goes through minimal calendaring. Reference: calendaring.
Measure
The width of type as measured in picas. Reference: picas.
Mechanical
A term used to describe finished artwork that is camera ready for reproduction, including all type, photos, illustrations, etc.
Moire
An undesirable halftone pattern produced by the incorrect angles of overprinting halftone screens.
Mottle
A term used to describe spotty or uneven ink absorption.
