What is the difference between RGB and CMYK in printing?

RGB is the colour of light on screens, CMYK is that of printing inks: the two systems do not match.

The difference between RGB and CMYK in printing is simple: RGB combines red, green and blue and creates brilliant colours on screen; CMYK uses cyan, magenta, yellow and black and represents colours on paper. That is why a file designed for the web must be converted before going to the printer. In Cantù, in the province of Como, we convert and check files for catalogues, brochures and flyers.

Colour

What changes from screen to paper

Some very saturated colours, such as certain electric blues or acid greens, fall outside the range of printing inks and look duller in print. It is best to know this from the design stage, not once the work is finished.

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The method

One team, from file to printer

When graphic design and production are in the same team, the conversion is decided together with the choice of paper. We work with companies in Como, Brianza and Milan. For the full picture, see the page on print files and colour.

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Portfolio

Projects where colour matters

Go to the web portfolio

Joia Paris

Joia Paris Marketing strategy

Marketing

C.G. Capelletti

C.G. Capelletti Marketing strategy

Marketing

Abbattista

Abbattista Marketing strategy

Marketing

Is your file in RGB and headed for print?

Send it to us: we will check it and tell you how to convert it.

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Bleed is the artwork that extends beyond the final format, so the cut leaves no white edges; safety margins keep text and logos away from the cut. For companies in Como and Brianza we set them in every project, in Cantù.

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The resolution for printing is much higher than for the web and depends on the final format: the image must be supplied at the actual print size, otherwise it looks pixelated. For companies between Como, Cantù and Milan we check every image before it goes to the printer.

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Pantone colours are ready-made, consistent shades, useful for brand colours or for effects that CMYK cannot reproduce, such as metallics and fluorescents. For companies in Cantù, Como and Brianza we assess case by case whether they are really needed.

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A QR code on printed materials should be large enough, with good contrast, accompanied by a line explaining what you will find after scanning and tested before printing. There is only one call to action, with a clear verb. For companies in Como and Brianza we handle it in Cantù.

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Colour proofs and print drafts are approved before production, with a single point of contact who coordinates you and the printer. In Cantù, in the province of Como, we help companies in Brianza and Milan read the proof, without promising colours identical to the monitor.

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