CMYK vs. RGB - What Are They?

May 20, 2016

In the printing world, there can be many terms, words and phrases we use that probably don't make sense to anyone who isn't immersed in this daily. There are two methods that designers will use to design any of your promotional products - CMYK & RGB. Here are a few interesting facts about printing history, and how our printing has evolved to this point when using colors.

The Difference Between CMYK and RGB

Both of these coloring methods are used in design, but only one is used for printing. CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (or key). While RGB stands for red, green, and blue. You will only find CMYK in the printing world while the RGB methods are used in digital media like websites.

CMYK & RGB

The CMYK and printing color spectrum is based on the light absorption as well as the possible color output that is available. Digital devices can display more colors options and choices that a printed document, for now. That's also why you may see something online and find that it looks completely different in color when it's been printed off.

History of CMYK

Back in the history of printing, they used printing presses, and in order to print a single document with different colors, they would use individual plates to print cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. Black was also known as key, which is why there is a "k" in the sequence instead of "b." Black ink carried the "key" information like text and image shading, so that's where it got it's name from. First, a printer would lay down one color, wait for it to dry, and then lay down another color. This could be a lengthy process, but that's why printing was so detailed and important.

Printing Now

While printing presses still operate with individual color printing, they now utilized spot colors. These spot colors are generally sample colors based a specific ingredient list to achieve the correct color, and it can come in handy when trying to successfully match the exact shade of teal in your digital logo. While digital printers have come a long way, and there are many advantages and progress, they still operate primarily on CMYK, even though they can print RGB if necessary.

Quality Printing at the Lake of the Ozarks

If you're looking for a quality printer who can help you achieve your dreams for all of your print products, you've found the right company. We specialize in creating a print piece that is perfect for you and helping you achieve this from beginning to end. Our highly trained staff can help you choose the right size, paper, and finished product. Our graphic designers can help you achieve just the right look and feel for your print project at the Lake of the Ozarks through graphic design, and our team members can then print your piece to perfection. If you're ready to get started on your one of a kind eco-friendly print piece, visit our website today!

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