Process vs Spot Colors: What's the difference?
Color: It’s Complicated
Bringing colors from screen to print is an intricate process. Understanding the differences between Process Color and Spot Color will help set expectations and ensure success.
Two Methods of Color Printing
Process Color (CMYK): Connecting the Dots
- Uses four inks: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black (CMYK).
- Tiny dots of CMYK ink are layered to create a wide range of colors.
Fast, economical, and versatile—but it may not produce colors with the same precision as Spot Color.
Spot Color: A Solid Decision
- Uses pre-mixed inks to achieve an exact shade (like mixing paint at a hardware store).
- Delivers consistent, precise colors with no visible dot pattern.
Offers unmatched accuracy but comes at a higher cost.
Which Method is Right for You?
- CMYK (Process Color): Ideal for projects requiring a wide range of colors at a lower cost.
Spot Color: Best for designs that demand perfect color precision, though it’s more expensive.
At Sttark, we print exclusively in CMYK Process Color.
Have questions? We’re here to help! Contact us.