PrintPlace.com Blog

In the online printing business, one of the most frequent subjects of discussion is that of file preparation and file transfer. Therefore, we hope to address the most commonly asked questions in this series of articles, to assist online print buyers in better preparing their files for printing. Before you know it, you’ll be creating stellar color brochures, color flyers and even full-color catalogs in the blink of an eye!

In the first of this three part series, we will address color settings – which ones to use, which ones to avoid and how to know the difference.

What is RGB?
RGB stands for Red, Green and Blue. These colors are used for digital cameras, scanners, computer monitors and TV screens. When combined RGB creates white as they are the additive colors of light. Files must be converted from RGB to CMYK if printing on a printing press.

Changing from RGB to CMYK will always produce some color shifting and a reduction in the color gamut because it is impossible to reproduce the entire RGB color palette with an offset press. It is highly recommend that you create and submit your document in CMYK to assure the color looks as close to your original file as possible.

What is CMYK?
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black and are used in the offset printing process. Printing with these four colors is often referred to as full color or 4-color printing. CMYK are subtractive colors and create black when combined. Any file that is printed on a printing press must be converted to CMYK.

If you are using black in any extensive solid area, you will want to create what is called a “Rich Black” – 60% Cyan, 40% Magenta, 40% Yellow and 100% Black (K). This will give you a deep rich black. However, do not use the rich black color mix on text. Black text should always be printed at 100% black (K).

What should I know about viewing files on my monitor?
You might notice that the colors on your printed piece may not exactly match the colors you see on the monitor. The age and or calibration of your monitor can determine monitor colors compared to the final printed colors. Also, the conversion from an RGB file to a CMYK file will alter the appearance of colors (See RGB and CMYK colors, above). If color is crucial to your final output, order a hard copy proof from your chosen online printer. This will ensure the look of your finished product before the order is completed, giving you the opportunity to make any necessary changes before the final printing.

Join us for our next installment, where we will discuss ways to convert your document to CMYK in various programs. We will also address the best resolution to use to achieve optimum results.