Choosing the Correct Colour Mode
Author:
Ellie Williamson
Published: 11/07/2013
This article explains the importance of choosing the correct colour mode when preparing your artwork for print.
Choosing the Correct Colour Mode
Artwork must be set up and supplied using the CMYK colour mode. CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Key (Black). Percentages of these four inks make up every colour used within your artwork.
What happens if my artwork isn't in CMYK colour mode?
If you supply your artwork using the RGB colour mode (Red, Green, Blue) which is used for displaying graphics on screen, our studio will convert the artwork to CMYK.
What are the differences between CMYK and RGB?
Due to the CMYK colour mode consisting of a smaller colour range compared to the RGB colour mode, bright colours will appear duller when converted, therefore designing in the CMYK colour mode will help to ensure your colours are as you desire.
See 'Understanding Variations in Colour Appearance' for more information.
EXAMPLE: Bright greens selected from the RGB colour mode become much duller when converted to CMYK.
| Colour Mode | Colour |
|---|---|
| RGB | |
| CMYK |
**Exception to the Rule**
Artwork for rubber stamps should be supplied in RGB colour mode as a solid black shape. (R 0, G 0, B 0)