{"id":2437,"date":"2026-08-27T02:56:06","date_gmt":"2026-08-27T08:56:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/?p=2437"},"modified":"2026-07-03T00:45:11","modified_gmt":"2026-07-03T06:45:11","slug":"custom-hookah-color-guide-how-to-communicate-your-brand-colors-to-the-factory","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/custom-hookah-color-guide-how-to-communicate-your-brand-colors-to-the-factory\/","title":{"rendered":"Custom Hookah Color Guide: How to Communicate Your Brand Colors to the Factory"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"article-toc\" style=\"background:#f8f9fa;padding:20px;border-radius:8px;margin:20px 0;\">\n  <strong style=\"font-size:18px;\">\ud83d\udcd6 Table of Contents<\/strong>\n  <ul style=\"list-style:none;padding-left:0;margin-top:10px;\">\n    <li style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\"><a href=\"#color-reference-system\">Color Reference System<\/a><\/li>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#level-1-best-option-physical-color-swatch\">Level 1: Best Option  Physical Color Swatch<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#level-2-good-option-pantone-code\">Level 2: Good Option  Pantone Code<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#level-3-adequate-option-photograph-of-desired-colo\">Level 3: Adequate Option  Photograph of Desired Color<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n    <li style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\"><a href=\"#how-to-capture-a-color-reference\">How to Capture a Color Reference<\/a><\/li>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#rule-1-gray-card\">Rule 1: Gray Card<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#rule-2-standard-lighting-d65\">Rule 2: Standard Lighting (D65)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#rule-3-no-filters\">Rule 3: No Filters<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n    <li style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\"><a href=\"#correctly-formatting-pantone-codes\">Correctly Formatting Pantone Codes<\/a><\/li>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#never-convert-cmyk-or-rgb-to-pantone\">Never Convert CMYK or RGB to Pantone<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#always-specify-coated-c-vs-uncoated-u\">Always Specify Coated (C) vs Uncoated (U)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#include-a-tolerance-statement\">Include a Tolerance Statement<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n    <li style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\"><a href=\"#acceptable-color-tolerance-what-is-good-enough\">Acceptable Color Tolerance: What Is Good Enough?<\/a><\/li>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#e-lt-2-good-standard-commercial-quality\">\u0394E &lt; 2: Good (Standard Commercial Quality)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#e-lt-1-premium-brand-standard\">\u0394E &lt; 1: Premium (Brand Standard)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#how-to-measure-e\">How to Measure \u0394E<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n    <li style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\"><a href=\"#the-sample-creation-process\">The Sample Creation Process<\/a><\/li>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#turnaround-1-to-2-weeks\">Turnaround: 1 to 2 Weeks<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#cost-50-to-200-per-color-sample\">Cost: $50 to $200 Per Color Sample<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#approval-process\">Approval Process<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#same-batch-same-day\">Same Batch, Same Day<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#logo-printing\">Logo Printing<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n    <li style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\"><a href=\"#ways-to-address-color-mismatches\">Ways to Address Color Mismatches<\/a><\/li>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#rejection-criteria\">Rejection Criteria<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#the-rework-process\">The Rework Process<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n      <ul><li style=\"margin-bottom:3px;\"><a href=\"#determining-who-pays\">Determining Who Pays<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n    <li style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\"><a href=\"#color-is-not-a-guess\">Color Is Not a Guess<\/a><\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe don\u2019t want to make the same mistake again, the color is wrong!\u201d<\/p>\n<p>You take the first look at your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/product-category\/hookah\/\">hookah sets<\/a> order and gasp in panic. From afar, the hookahs look fine. However, when you hold one in the light, that\u2019s when you get confused. The stem is not even your shade of brand blue, but a faded, unfortunate version. The other parts are even worse. The logo on the base is barely noticeable because the logo is the same shade as the char<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/quick-light-vs-natural-coconut-coals\/\">hookah coals<\/a> base. The tray is yet a different hue. All of your products are completely incorrect.<\/p>\n<p>Having color mismatches is the biggest issue in custom hookah manufacturing. Color mismatches are even worse because it causes you to lose time and money and lose the t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/hookah-maintenance-tips\/\">rust prevention<\/a> of your clients. A lounge owner we met in Dubai told us that he rejected an entire shipment because the \u201cmidnight black\u201d he ordered came out charcoal gray. The factory blamed him for rejecting the shipment because his monitor must have been wrong. He blamed the factory. Neither side was actually at fault. The true problem was the lack of communication between both parties.<\/p>\n<p>Color is subjective to some extent, and a factory in China or Turkey can\u2019t read your mind because of this. While designing goods for better communication, they require the use of a standard. To solve confusion and ambiguity, your color specifications need to have a system.<\/p>\n<p>This guide provides you with that system. Use the guide for your next order, and your hookahs will turn out as expected.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"color-reference-system\"><strong><b>Color Reference System<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>While designing a product, the factories work better with physical examples. Digital files aren\u2019t reliable for that. Monitors, printers, and lighting conditions are all very inconsistent. A color that perfectly aligns with your brand on your fancy ole screen can look completely off on a metal stem that cost you a fortune to manufacture.<\/p>\n<p>Use this priority system when you send color specifications to a factory. When you send color specifications, start at the top and only work down if it\u2019s necessary to do so.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"level-1-best-option-physical-color-swatch\"><strong><b>Level 1: Best Option &#8211; Physical Color Swatch<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>A physical color swatch is an actual piece of material that is the finished color you&#8217;re trying to achieve. It may be an anodized aluminum chip, a plastic sample, or a painted metal swatch. The factory will hold it in their hands and match it to the lighting they have. There is no guesswork involved.<\/p>\n<p>A swatch can be shipped with your order, or you can send it to them via courier before production begins. Make sure you keep a copy of the swatch, so you have it for your own inspection.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"level-2-good-option-pantone-code\"><strong><b>Level 2: Good Option &#8211; Pantone Code<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>A Pantone code is just that &#8211; a language. When Pantone code 300 C is specified, it does not matter if you are in Shenzhen, Istanbul, or New York. Factories have Pantone color cards. They use the cards to mix to the right shade, ink, and paint.<\/p>\n<p>You use Pantone when a physical swatch cannot be sent. Make sure you order the most up to date Pantone Solid Coated book if you don\u2019t already own one. If you have a book that is from 2015 or older, it is almost a certainty the codes will have changed due to a reformulation of the ink.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"level-3-adequate-option-photograph-of-desired-colo\"><strong><b>Level 3: Adequate Option &#8211; Photograph of Desired Color<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>A sent photo is definitely better than nothing. However, it is more inadequate than a physical swatch or a specified Pantone color. A photo will mention the lighting in the factory, and may contain artifacts from your phone. Your computer will add color to it. Photos are the worst option.<\/p>\n<p>When a photo is sent, the following rules must be abided to. If done right, a reference photo is acceptable. However, a random photo is certainly not.<img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2415\" src=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/color-tolerance-delta-e-acceptable-range-standard-02.jpg.webp\" alt=\"An infographic product photography explaining Delta E color tolerance standards: acceptable range values for different material types and the industry standard for color matching quality. The technical tolerance guide defines acceptable variation. Dark emerald green background.\" width=\"1467\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/color-tolerance-delta-e-acceptable-range-standard-02.jpg.webp 1467w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/color-tolerance-delta-e-acceptable-range-standard-02-300x164.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/color-tolerance-delta-e-acceptable-range-standard-02-1024x558.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/color-tolerance-delta-e-acceptable-range-standard-02-768x419.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/color-tolerance-delta-e-acceptable-range-standard-02-600x327.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1467px) 100vw, 1467px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-capture-a-color-reference\"><strong><b>How to Capture a Color Reference<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>You have to know how to take a proper photo when sending a color reference. A poor photo forces the factory to guess the color reference, while a photo taken right will provide good usable data.<\/p>\n<p>Consider these rules.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"rule-1-gray-card\"><strong><b>Rule 1: Gray Card<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Have a standard gray card (18% reflectance) placed next to the object you want to photograph. When the factory receives the production image, they will use the gray card to balance the colors. When there is no gray card, the factory has no way of knowing the exact white balance in your photo.<\/p>\n<p>A gray card will cost less than $10, and for a factory order, that is the cheapest insurance you can buy.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"rule-2-standard-lighting-d65\"><strong><b>Rule 2: Standard Lighting (D65)<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>D65 is known as noon daylight and is the standard for color evaluation throughout the world. Reference photos should be taken under D65 lamps. If that is not available, an overcast day will do. The clouds will provide enough diffusion.<\/p>\n<p>Direct sunlight, tungsten bulbs and fluorescent tubes should not be used as they will all provide color casts that the factory will have a hard time deciphering.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"rule-3-no-filters\"><strong><b>Rule 3: No Filters<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>All filters should be turned off. This includes HDR and non-standard color modes. No other photo-editing should be done as well. Raw is best, and JPEG with as little compression as possible is acceptable.<\/p>\n<p>For color reference on a smartphone, the standard photo mode is usable, as long as no preset photo enhancement or beauty modes are applied.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"correctly-formatting-pantone-codes\"><strong><b>Correctly Formatting Pantone Codes<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Pantone codes used incorrectly lead to disastrous color errors. Incorrect color values frustrate most buyers.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"never-convert-cmyk-or-rgb-to-pantone\"><strong><b>Never Convert CMYK or RGB to Pantone<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Your designer provided a CMYK value. You then locate the &#8220;closest&#8221; Pantone online. This is incorrect. The CMYK and RGB networks make up 2D and 3D color spaces. A conversion results in a mapping that could be in error by several shades.<\/p>\n<p>Use a Pantone fan deck. Match it to the material in order to select your color. Choose the Pantone code visually and not through a conversion table.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"always-specify-coated-c-vs-uncoated-u\"><strong><b>Always Specify Coated (C) vs Uncoated (U)<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Pantone Solid Coated (C) is used for glossy or coated surfaces, while Pantone Solid Uncoated (U) is used for matte or uncoated surfaces. The same color number can appear differently on coated or uncoated paper.<\/p>\n<p>In the case of hookah stems, most factories use a paint or powder coat finish. This behaves like a coated surface. Choose &#8216;C&#8217; for stem colors. Choose &#8216;U&#8217; only if your final finish is flat matte with no gloss.<\/p>\n<p>Always write it as &#8220;Pantone 300 C&#8221; not &#8220;Pantone 300&#8221; or &#8220;PMS 300 C.&#8221; Without full specification, factories will make an assumption.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"include-a-tolerance-statement\"><strong><b>Include a Tolerance Statement<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Add to your specification sheet: &#8220;Color must be measured under D65 lighting using a calibrated spectrophotometer. Acceptable \u0394E must be below [X] when compared to the approved physical sample.&#8221; This removes ambiguity on inspection day.<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2416 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/factory-color-swatch-approval-card-sign-off-03.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A product photography of a factory color confirmation card: client signature space, Pantone reference, approved swatch attached, and date. The signed confirmation card prevents disputes about approved color. Clean card design. Dark emerald green background.\" width=\"1467\" height=\"800\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/factory-color-swatch-approval-card-sign-off-03.jpg.webp 1467w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/factory-color-swatch-approval-card-sign-off-03-300x164.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/factory-color-swatch-approval-card-sign-off-03-1024x558.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/factory-color-swatch-approval-card-sign-off-03-768x419.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/factory-color-swatch-approval-card-sign-off-03-600x327.jpg.webp 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1467px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1467\/800;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 1467px) 100vw, 1467px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"acceptable-color-tolerance-what-is-good-enough\"><strong><b>Acceptable Color Tolerance: What Is Good Enough?<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>It&#8217;s practically impossible for a factory to hit the exact same color each and every time. There are just too many natural forces at play. The true question becomes how big of a gap is tolerable?<\/p>\n<p>Delta E (\u0394E) has become the standard. It represents color difference. To the naked eye, \u0394E of 1 is an imperceptible difference. \u0394E of 3 represents a perceivable difference and \u0394E of 5 is a different color.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"e-lt-2-good-standard-commercial-quality\"><strong><b>\u0394E &lt; 2: Good (Standard Commercial Quality)<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This is the lowest color tolerance for custom hookah colors. With proper color matching, most factories are able to achieve \u0394E &lt; 2. At this tolerance, the color is perceived correct by consumers. Without a side by side comparison, it is very difficult to notice to discrepancy.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"e-lt-1-premium-brand-standard\"><strong><b>\u0394E &lt; 1: Premium (Brand Standard)<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Factories do not often achieve \u0394E &lt; 1, but for t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/product-category\/hoses\/\">hookah hoses<\/a> that do, the price will be significantly higher. \u0394E &lt; 1 should be the standard for your primary brand colors, while \u0394E &lt; 2 colors should be the standard for your secondary colors. State your tolerance in the contract before production begins; do not assume the factory will know.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"how-to-measure-e\"><strong><b>How to Measure \u0394E<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Measuring \u0394E requires a spectrophotometer. A budget option will be between $200 and $500, and should be owned by the factory as well. Both parties should agree to use the same spectrophotometer before production due to variance in devices.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-sample-creation-process\"><strong><b>The Sample Creation Process<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Before ordering a complete production run, get a sample. Samples are worth the cost. Sourcing the sample takes time. Factor that into your timeline.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"turnaround-1-to-2-weeks\"><strong><b>Turnaround: 1 to 2 Weeks<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Take into account that it can take a factory 1 to 2 weeks to produce a custom color sample. Production can include sourcing paint or powder coat, applying the coating to a sample for testing, baking the sample for curing, and measuring the result, which may require formula adjustments and many test samples.<\/p>\n<p>Something to note when requesting a custom color is that you should have them sample the same material they will produce the final product. The custom color will not look the same on different metals, and may look drastically different on Brass versus Stainless Steel versus Aluminum.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"cost-50-to-200-per-color-sample\"><strong><b>Cost: $50 to $200 Per Color Sample<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>A custom color sample is not free. Costs range from $50 to $200, depending on the complexity of the coating. Metallic colors require multiple layers, and therefore, cost more. Some factories will waive the sample fee if you subsequently place a production request. It&#8217;s worth asking.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"approval-process\"><strong><b>Approval Process<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Once you receive the sample, you have the final say as to whether you think the sample meets your custom color needs based on the lighting in your facility and whether you have a color measuring device to assess \u0394E. You should approve or reject the sample and keep a copy for your records.<\/p>\n<p>M uch like the different parts of a hookah, such as the base, stem, and mouthpiece, which are often different colors, the concept of Mult-Component Color Consistency means that all the different parts of a hookah need to match if they are intended to be the same color..<\/p>\n<p>This is trickier than it appears. Different materials take color differently. For example, metal, glass, silicone, and plastic absorb and reflect light in various ways. A shade that looks good on a brass stem may appear dull on an aluminum tray.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"same-batch-same-day\"><strong><b>Same Batch, Same Day<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>All components of the same color must be painted from the same batch and on the same day. Even slight variations in humidity or temperature may change the final shade.<\/p>\n<p>Include the following in your contract: &#8220;All color-matched components shall be produced from a single batch of paint in a single production run.&#8221; This is a standard request, and the factories will automatically comply; you just need to put it in the contract.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"logo-printing\"><strong><b>Logo Printing<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>If your logo is printed or pad prints on the hookah, the ink must match the stem. Otherwise, it must be a contrasting color. Specify the Pantone for your logo ink. The factory will not use the same formula as the stem paint.<\/p>\n<p>If your design needs to have a gradient, a transparent layer, or color that changes with the angle of the light, then these must be described in the contract in addition to a solid color. Gradient colors also require a different method of application. Translucent colors require a different type of paint. Do not combine these into a single &#8220;blue&#8221; specification.<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2413 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/successful-color-match-custom-hookah-brand-guide-04.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A lifestyle product photography showing a successful color-matched custom hookah next to the brand's CI\/style guide document, demonstrating perfect color alignment between the product and the brand identity. The matched product validates color accuracy. Dark emerald green background.\" width=\"1467\" height=\"800\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/successful-color-match-custom-hookah-brand-guide-04.jpg.webp 1467w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/successful-color-match-custom-hookah-brand-guide-04-300x164.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/successful-color-match-custom-hookah-brand-guide-04-1024x558.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/successful-color-match-custom-hookah-brand-guide-04-768x419.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/wp-content\/smush-webp\/2026\/06\/successful-color-match-custom-hookah-brand-guide-04-600x327.jpg.webp 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1467px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1467\/800;\" data-original-sizes=\"(max-width: 1467px) 100vw, 1467px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"ways-to-address-color-mismatches\"><strong><b>Ways to Address Color Mismatches<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Sometimes the factory will deliver a batch with color mismatches. Once you inspect the batch, you might notice that the factory&#8217;s batch has an error. What do you do about it?<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"rejection-criteria\"><strong><b>Rejection Criteria<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The best way to avoid this problem is to define your rejection criteria, and include them in the purchase order. An example of a rejection criterion is as follows:<\/p>\n<p>Completely reject any component that has a \u0394E of greater than 2.0 as measured by a calibrated spectrophotometer under D65 lighting, and the cost will be paid by the factory.<\/p>\n<p>If you do not include this in the purchase order, then you legally will not be able to ask the factory to redo the work, and your complaint will have little to no merit.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"the-rework-process\"><strong><b>The Rework Process<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>If your color criterion is not met, the factory must remove the finish. In order to match the color again, they will have to paint over the component again. This may alter the surface finish texture. You may have to be okay with a change in surface finish texture for a color match.<\/p>\n<p>In order to avoid the factory from repeating the mistake again, request that they send you a sample for approval before they paint the entire batch again.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"determining-who-pays\"><strong><b>Determining Who Pays<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This will be obvious if you look for it.<\/p>\n<p>Factory error: If the factory painted the component incorrectly, then they will have to bear the cost of the rework, including the cost of the component.<\/p>\n<p>Buyer error: If you sent the factory the wrong Pantone color, the wrong approval picture, or told the factory to change the approved sample color, then you will have to pay the cost of the rework.<\/p>\n<p>Shared error: If the factory painted the color match to the sample you provided and the sample you provided had faded, then this is a shared error, and you should negotiate a cost splitting agreement for the rework.<\/p>\n<p>Put these rules in your contract. There is no such thing as a globally binding verbal contract.<\/p>\n<p>Color Specification Sheet Template<\/p>\n<p>Use this template when ordering custom colors from a hookah factory. Fill out every field. Send it as a PDF attachment with your purchase order.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\"><strong>FIELD<\/strong><\/td>\n<td width=\"360\"><strong>YOUR SPECIFICATION<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Order Number<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">HO-2026-001<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Brand Name<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">Your Brand Name<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Component<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">Stem \/ Tray \/ Mouthpiece \/ Base (circle or list)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Color Name<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">Midnight Blue<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Physical Swatch<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">Yes \/ No \u2014 Enclosed \/ Shipped separately<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Pantone Code<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">Pantone 300 C<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Color Tolerance<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">\u0394E &lt; 1.5 from approved sample<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Finish Type<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">Gloss \/ Matte \/ Satin \/ Metallic \/ Textured<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Material<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">Stainless steel 304 \/ Brass \/ Aluminum \/ Copper<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Production Batch<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">All components from same batch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"360\">Approved Sample Date<\/td>\n<td width=\"360\">DD\/MM\/YYYY \u2014 Reference photo attached<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Use when ordering custom colors from a hookah factory. Complete all fields. Add to your purchase order as a PDF.<\/p>\n<p>Keep in mind to add the information according to your specifications. You also have to submit this document with each new order. The factory might not remember your last order. Different sales representatives handle different orders. Having specifications leaves less up to memory.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"color-is-not-a-guess\"><strong><b>Color Is Not a Guess<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Having a vision is the first step when it comes to ordering custom hookahs. Factories turn your vision into a hookah. However, the factories need instructions to do this.<\/p>\n<p>The best way to do this is with a physical sample. The Pantone system comes second. The swatch doesn&#8217;t have to be a swatch, it can be a well-taken photo. A description should be the very last resort to communicating the idea.<\/p>\n<p>Use a standard to measure your acceptable deviation. Create a sample, and approve it in writing. The production batch should be inspected and compared to the approved sample. Lastly, don&#8217;t forget to add your specifications in the contract.<\/p>\n<p>Follow these steps if you want to tailor your hookah to your brand. If you want to skip them, you can expect to open a box full of disappointment.<\/p>\n<p>The choice is yours. The instructions are simple.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\ud83d\udcd6 Table of Contents Color Reference System Level 1: Best Option Physical Color Swatch Level 2: Good Option Pantone Code [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2414,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[100],"tags":[379,330,381,333,334,331,380],"class_list":["post-2437","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-custom-branding-oem","tag-custom-hookah","tag-hookah-101","tag-hookah-branding","tag-hookah-charcoal","tag-hookah-for-beginners","tag-hookah-guide","tag-hookah-oem"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2437","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2437"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2437\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3390,"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2437\/revisions\/3390"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2414"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2437"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2437"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.linkuphookah.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2437"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}