If you have ever heard the acronym CMYK and wondered what it means, then this article is for you. Below, we will explain all there is to know about CMYK colours and printing and hopefully answer all your burning questions on the matter. Keep reading!
CMYK: What Does It Stand For?
The acronym CMYK stands for four ink colours: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. The type of printing that uses these colours is called 4-colour process printing or CMYK printing.
How Does CMYK Printing Work?
CMYK printers apply ink in these four colours in successive layers. Layering the colours in different concentrations and order allows the printers to create almost any colour you need for printing. That, in turn, makes creating full-colour images easy and efficient.
However, CMYK printers cannot create all colours that are visible to the human eye or that are necessary for full image printing. In cases like that, other printing types and colours (mainly PMS) help you fill in any blanks.
Other Names for CMYK Printing
Since CMYK is an acronym that is more common in printing circles, it might not be as familiar to you. However, you have probably heard of this type of printing under a different name.
Those names include 4-colour printing, 4-colour process printing, 4CP, or just process printing. All other colours that can be created using this type of printing (besides the four main ones) are called process colours.
What Can You Print With the CMYK Method?
As we have mentioned, the results of CMYK printing are full-colour images. So, you can use it to print just about anything that requires them.
Most items you see every day are made using this printing type. For example, you can take a look at magazines or brochures in your home using a magnifying glass. If you do that, you will see that the images in them consist of thousands of tiny CMYK dots that are close together.
Contact Us Today
The basics of CMYK printing are in the sections above. However, if you want to find out even more, you can give us a call at 0800 0148 970 or simply email us today. We can talk about any topic related to printing and help you find your way around it all. Just contact us, and we will happily point you in the direction of the best printing type for you and your company’s needs. We are waiting for you!
Related content:
What Is 4-Colour Process Printing?
