RGB or CMYK?
RGB covers highly saturated colours that printing inks simply cannot reproduce (electric greens and blues in particular). An RGB file is converted to CMYK automatically before printing, and some shades turn dull. By designing in CMYK from the outset, you see straight away what can actually be printed.
Recommended ICC profiles
The colour profile tells the press how to interpret your shades on each material:
- Coated paper: PSO Coated v3 profile.
- Uncoated paper (offset, natural, recycled): PSO Uncoated v3 (FOGRA52).
- Large format & rigid materials: PSO Coated v3.
Paper changes how colour looks
The same file will not look identical on every material. Recycled papers lean towards grey-beige; coated papers are whiter and more vivid. For critical colours (brand guidelines), request a sample or a printed proof before going to press.
Check before you send
- Document in CMYK mode
- ICC profile matched to the paper
- Body text black in 100% K
- Brand colours approved on a sample if critical
Will my colours match my screen exactly?
Where can I download ICC profiles?
Not sure about your file?
Our AI assistant checks your file and flags anything that needs adjusting — and can even create your print-ready artwork, bleed included. Nothing goes to press without your approval.