CMYK Color Space
Understanding RGB and CMYK Color Spaces
When preparing your design files for printing, understanding the difference between RGB and CMYK color spaces is crucial. These two color models are used in different mediums. You’re probably familiar with RGB since it’s the color space used by the screens you interact with daily—your phone, TV, or laptop. However, when it comes to printing something in the physical world, like a book, you’ll need to ensure your files are in CMYK. This step is crucial to make sure your printed book looks as close as possible to your digital design, maintaining the integrity of your colors.
We put together this guide to help you better understand the difference between RGB and CMYK color spaces and how to best handle the conversion between the two.
RGB Color Space
RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, and it is an additive color space. This means that colors are created by adding light from these three primary colors. When combined at full intensity, they produce white, and when none are present, the result is black. RGB is primarily used for digital screens like smartphones, computer screens, and televisions.
Since RGB works by combining light emitted by a screen, it cannot be used for printing, which relies on reflecting light off the printed surface. This makes it necessary to convert files from RGB to CMYK for accurate color reproduction in physical media.
CMYK Color Space
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). This color model is used in printing because it’s based on the absorption and reflection of light on paper. In CMYK printing, also known as ‘four-color printing’, colors are created by layering these four inks in varying amounts.
Due to the additive nature of RGB it has a larger color gamut than CMYK— meaning it can produce a wider range of colors than CMYK. That means that some RGB colors simply cannot be replicated in the CMYK color space. Bright, neon colors, very light colors, and highly saturated colors may look great on your computer screen, but they are often outside the range of what CMYK inks can replicate. When converting from RGB to CMYK, these colors may appear duller or less intense.
Preparing Files for PufferPrint
When it comes to printing, all files must be in CMYK color space. If a file was created in RGB, it will need to be converted to CMYK before it can be printed.
We recommend that you convert your files to CMYK in your design software before submitting them to us. This allows you to see how the colors will look in print and make any necessary adjustments. Handling this step before submitting your print files will save you time during the pre-print process and give you more control over the color conversion process.
After the conversion, carefully review all the colors in your artwork to ensure they still look as intended. Double-checking your design will help prevent any surprises during the proofing process and ensure that the final print run aligns with your vision for the book.
Depending on the design and layout software you’re using to illustrate and format your book, here are a few guides to help you tackle the conversion yourself:
- Adobe Illustrator: How to Use Adobe Suit to Convert RGB to CMYK in 8 Steps
- Canva: How to Format Your Book’s Print Files in Canva
- Procreate:
- How to Create a New Custom Canvas (set your Color Profile to Generic CMYK Profile)
- How to Set Your Canvas’ Color Profile
If you’re not comfortable converting your print files to CMYK, you do have the option of sending us files in RGB and we will convert them to CMYK during the pre-print process. However, this conversion process can sometimes cause colors to shift, potentially altering the appearance of your artwork and illustrations. We always encourage you to thoroughly inspect your digital proof for color shifts as well as margins and spacing before ordering your physical proof.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between RGB and CMYK is essential for anyone preparing files for print. By ensuring your files are in the correct color space, you can maintain control over the final appearance of your printed materials. At PufferPrint, we’re here to help you through this process, ensuring your prints turn out exactly as you envisioned. If you would prefer to have some expert assistance we also offer a book formatting service that includes RGB to CMYK color conversion.
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Ready to Print?
When you’re ready to take the next step, share your print-ready files with [email protected] via Google Drive, Dropbox, or WeTransfer
Our pre-print team will review your files and provide any additional feedback to ensure your project turns out just the way you envisioned.
With PufferPrint, you’re not just printing – you’re bringing your creative vision to life. Let’s make something amazing together!
Read Our Reviews
See what other authors are saying about working with PufferPrint.
I worked with PufferPrint to publish my children’s board book and they did a fantastic job. I was really appreciative of their communicativeness and professionalism. I felt like they were truly working WITH me, and were invested in making my book as high of a quality as I wanted it to be. Will be recommending them and hopefully working with them again in the future!
Jes McCutchen
Lil’ Space Explorer
PufferPrint is the absolute best for self publishing. The Adventures of Yaya staff is very happy with the decision we made with going through this company. Customer service is second to none and the quality of our children’s book is beyond what we expected. We are looking forward to a long lasting relationship with Pufferprint because they are simply THE BEST!!
Yaya Dayiti
The Adventures of Yaya
PufferPrint guided me through the book printing process and addressed all of my questions promptly. The book looks amazing. I highly recommend PufferPrint!
Janet Beaulieu
Be Brave Little Pirate
I’m so glad I found PufferPrint and I would highly recommend their services. It was a joy to work with such dedicated, prompt and talented customer service. Such meticulous attention to detail, I’m completely satisfied with my book, and PufferPrint. Don’t hesitate, you won’t be disappointed – thanks PufferPrint!
Denise Mathus
Big Potato and Small Fry
