What is the difference between spot colors and Pantone?

CMYK colors are applied to paper through a four-color process and the color is absorbed by the paper. Spot colors or PMS (Pantone Matching System) refer to a color or ink that has been specifically mixed and calibrated to a color matching system such as Pantone.

What is the difference between PMS and Pantone colors?

This is also known as full-colour or process printing. Pantone – Each colour is made up of one solid ink which is created by the printer using a specific formula. The formula is the same every time so it provides the most consistency when printing. These colours are also known as PMS (Pantone Matching System).

What does the C mean in PMS colors?

coated stock
Pantone Process Color numbers start with the letter P followed by a one- to three-digit number, a dash, and a one- to two-digit number. The “C” suffix indicates coated stock and the “U” uncoated.

What the Pantone Matching System PMS is and what it is used for?

The Pantone Color System, or PMS, is a standardized color matching system, which is widely used around the world. It was devised to help printers and designers to specify and control colors for printing projects. The Pantone Color System allows you to specify colors that cannot be mixed in traditional CMYK.

When to use PMS also called spot colors vs process colors?

Process color applies four or more standard ink colors (the basic four are cyan, magenta, yellow and black) in very fine screens so that many thousands of colors are created. Spot color is usually used when a few exact colors are needed.

What are pros and cons of using spot colors vs process colors?

The spot color method does not require the mixing of ink and guarantees a true consistent color in every production run. Spot Colors are generally less expensive when printing three colors or less. Disadvantages Spot Color printing is not a great fit for digital print.

What are PMS colors used for?

PMS, or Pantone Matching System, is used for producing spot colors accurately. Together they are able to achieve almost any desired effect through complementary systems. This book demystifies their use while providing a breathtaking display of color in print by some of the worlds most talented designers.

What is spot color in printing?

Spot color printing is a traditional method where the colors of your design are applied individually in layers, eventually filling in all of the spots in your custom design. Full color printing is a digital method where all ink colors in your design are printed at the same time.

What is Pantone CP vs C?

Essentially the C is the actual Pantone coated. The CP version is a CMYK approximation of the Pantone coated.

What are PMS color codes?

CMYK, RGB, PMS: Color Systems Defined

• PMS = Pantone Matching System.
• CMYK = Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black. Also called 4-color, or process.
• Always provide the right file.

When should you use spot colors?

Spot colors are best used when colors are outside of the CMYK range or when accuracy is crucial, such as in company logos or color-specific brand elements (think Starbucks green or McDonalds red and yellow).