Understanding colours in print is essential when preparing files for professional printing. Colours that look perfect on screen can appear quite different once they are transferred to paper, which is why knowing how colour models work is so important.

The two main colour models used in design and publishing are CMYK and RGB, and each serves a very different purpose.

CMYK and Colour Printing

CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black. This is the colour model used in colour printing and is the standard for books, brochures, posters, and marketing materials.

CMYK is known as a subtractive colour model. It begins with white paper and subtracts light as inks are layered on top of each other. By combining different percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink, a wide range of colours can be created on paper.

Understanding colours in print means understanding how ink behaves on physical surfaces. Paper type, coatings, and ink absorption can all affect how colours appear once printed, which is why CMYK provides predictable and reliable print results.

RGB and Digital Displays

RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue and is the colour model used for digital screens, such as computers, tablets, televisions, and mobile phones.

RGB is an additive colour model, meaning it starts with black and adds light to create colour. When red, green, and blue light are combined at full strength, white is produced. This model allows for vibrant, luminous colours that are ideal for digital displays.

Understanding colours in print requires recognising that RGB colours are created using light, not ink, which is why they often appear brighter on screens than on printed materials.

Preparing Files for Print

When preparing artwork for printing, it is essential to convert RGB colours to CMYK.

Colours designed in RGB may look vivid and intense on screen but can shift or lose brightness when printed if they are not converted properly. By working in CMYK, or converting files before printing, you ensure more accurate colour reproduction and consistent results.

Understanding colours in print helps avoid unexpected colour changes, reduces reprints, and results in professional‑looking printed materials.

Final Thoughts

Understanding colours in print is a key part of producing high‑quality books and printed materials. Knowing the difference between CMYK and RGB allows you to design with confidence, ensuring that what you see on screen closely matches the final printed result.