What we are looking at now is in the "RGB color space" - because that is the 3 colors used by a computer monitor to render the color we see. RGB color cannot be used in commercial printing. So, let's redefine the color of the image to what we actually see: a red, green and a kind of purple colored group of basic geometric shapes.

To reproduce these colors accurately in commercial printing we use one of two methods to define them: Process color (also called "full color" and "CMYK color") or, as we will explore here, spot color (or "PMS color"). These are pretty universal ways to define color, no matter what the actual mechanical means of doing the printing may be (offset printing presses or screen printers, as examples).

You can learn more about process color printing here.

Which is better - spot or process color?
They are both best for the appropriate application. "Huh," you say? Yep, that's the correct answer - it all depends on what you are printing - your design. So consider them as equals, just in different arenas.

((begin shameless pitch))
That's where we come in - we'll guide you (both from an economic and design standpoint) to the best way to do the job and achieve the optimal results. Now, back to the technical stuff.
((end shameless pitch))

What spot color printing is about.
In the simplest sense, spot color printing means that the actual color of the objects in your design (text, lines, boxes, etc.) are defined using a numeric value (a PMS value). When printed, the ink is formulated by a "recipe" in a color "cookbook". The cookbook is called a swatch library or pallet (in software parlance) or formula guide (one you hold it in your hand).

The designer uses the swatch library and formula guide (think like a house paint chip set at the Big-Box) to choose what PMS numbers to assign the different objects in the design. The most common professional design software packages available will have the ability to use these swatch libraries or have developed color palettes for spot colors. Notice I said the designer uses both swatches/pallets and formula guides - this is important.

The color reproduction you see on your screen is in the RGB color space - remember? So, unless you have a very high-end monitor that has been calibrated (using a tool like Adobe© Gamma, or something similar), there is a very good chance that what you see IS NOT what you'll print. That's why having both the swatch library on your computer and access to a formula guide (swatch book) are important. The swatch book or formula guide let you see what the color is really going to look like when printed. Even converting spot colors over to CMYK values is hit-or-miss, and we speak from experience here, too.

What PMS means.
PMS stand for "Pantone© Matching System". It is THE international standard for matching and controlling print ink color. It provides standardized color reference chips and formulae to reproduce those colors using standardized basic colors. You can learn more about Pantone© here.

Where can I get a PMS swatch book / formula guide?
Here's a cool online PMS color chart (opens in new window) - please use with great caution.

((begin required legal speak))
It is not intended to be used as a resource for your color management needs. It is here to give you a representation of the spectrum of colors available and a way to "pre-select" colors to use before you have a chance to actually verify them.

Use of this chart is at your own risk - we do not guarantee anything based on this information.
((end required legal speak))

Pantone© approved guides are available from a number of sources. They aren't inexpensive, though. If you just need an occasional resource, we highly recommend stopping in at the local Kinko's, AlphaGraphics or other local commercial printer and asking to take a look at there guide - they have them available to review.

Please remember - these printed versions do have expiration dates (a date after which the color reproduction is no longer guaranteed), so a used one that is 10-years old may not be too accurate.

So, what does all this do to my artwork?
Well, when we make the films that are used to create the screens we use to print on your CD's, this color information creates separations - one for each spot color used. Like this:

Then, we print the correct PMS color for each screen, recreating your artwork on the CD face.

Need more info? You can take a look at the FAQ on the left side of this page and see if your question may be there, or you can always contact us with your question, and we'll do our best to be sure you get the right answer - the first time!

Spot Color Frequently Asked Questions