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Print Design

CMYK

Description

CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black) and is the standard colour model used for printing. Unlike RGB, which uses light on screens, CMYK uses ink on paper. Colours can look different when converted from RGB to CMYK because ink has a smaller colour range than light. For print design, working in CMYK helps ensure colours are closer to what the printer can reproduce. Accurate results also depend on paper type, printer settings, and colour profiles used in the print process.

Why it Matters?

  • Helps ensure print colours are prepared in a printer-friendly format.
  • Reduces unexpected colour shifts when printing digital designs.
  • Improves consistency across printed marketing materials.
  • Supports better collaboration with print suppliers and workflows.

Key Factors

  • Ink-based model: CMYK relies on ink absorption and paper characteristics.
  • Colour conversion: RGB colours may shift when converted to CMYK.
  • Colour profiles: Profiles influence how colours are interpreted and printed.
  • Paper type: Coated vs uncoated paper affects colour appearance.
  • Black management: Using black ink properly improves text sharpness and contrast.

Best Practices

  • Design in CMYK for print projects from the start where possible.
  • Use printer-provided colour profiles if available.
  • Request proofs for colour-critical work.
  • Avoid relying on bright RGB-only colours for print.
  • Check black text settings to ensure crisp output.

FAQs

What is CMYK?

CMYK is a colour model for printing that uses cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink to create colours.

Why do colours change from screen to print?

Screens use RGB light, while printing uses CMYK ink, which has a different colour range and behaviour on paper.

Should print designs be created in CMYK?

Yes. Using CMYK helps align designs with what printers can reproduce more reliably.

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