How 4 Color Process Printing (CMYK) Works

CMYK Process Printing Features

It uses the same 4 standardized base colors all the time (cyan, magenta, yellow and black)
Small dots of these colors are printed at different angles to create the printed image
The most widely used and cost effective color system in commercial printing
It’s significantly cheaper than toner based or digital printing for larger quantity runs

The use of color in print increases readership and information retention.
Studies in a major publication revealed that the use of color increased readership by 40% or more. A university study showed a 65% increase in the retention of material when full color was used instead of black and white. See more research about why color matters in marketing.

Also see Color in the Printing Process for more information on the use of four color process in commercial printing.

RELATED MARKETING & DESIGN TIPS

How to Create a Small Business Marketing Plan

Detailed and easy to follow steps on how to create an effective marketing plan for your small business. A marketing plan is much more than just another boring business document, it’s your map to revenue, growth, longevity, and success

Saving PDF Files in Photoshop and Illustrator

Learn how to save PDF files in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator by exporting your work as a PDF file, as well as the benefits of saving files as PDFs.

Magnetic Business Card Printing

Get high quality magnetic business cards printed with numerous custom options, fast turnaround, live expert help and award winning service

Proofing a Print Order

A “proof” is a preview of your press-ready file, allowing you to examine and confirm layout, text and content before your order goes to press.

Printing Metallic Ink on Business Cards

Learn about using metallic ink printing on your business cards to make them exceptional and get you noticed

Spot UV Printing

Get exceptional Spot UV printing for your marketing materials. Numerous Spot UV coating options can enhance your printed piece and really get you noticed

Church Donation, Remittance and Offering Envelopes

Full color custom printed full flap remittance envelopes and church offering, collection and donation envelopes for churches, non-profits, and schools

Choosing a Printing Service for Your Project

Printing services types explained. Help with choosing the right printing service for your commercial printing needs

How Custom Printing can Turbo-charge your Business

Using custom printing to turbo-charge your business marketing and stand out from your competitors

Direct Mail Service Options

Direct mail services and options explained to help you understand the best way to send your direct mail campaign mailing

Digital Printing vs Offset Printing

What are digital printing and offset printing? Knowing the difference between digital and offset printing can save costs in the long run.

Color in Process Printing

Choosing between CMYK or RBG for print? Learn which you should use for printing and how the color quality of printed materials are affected by RBG and CMYK.

Point of Purchase Displays

These patented easy to erect custom point of purchase displays can complement your literature graphics and communicate your brand messaging better

Business Card Design Do’s and Don’ts

Create a better and more succesful Business Card with these Design Do’s and Don’ts

Large 3 Panel Brochure Design Review

How to Design Print Materials for Foil Stamping Effects

We share the top best practices for designing for foil stamped or metallic printing effects to insure that you get the best printed piece possible

Printing Terms & Glossary

A Glossary of terms used in the graphic arts, graphic design, and commercial printing industry. Learn the definition of collate printing, ream, and more.

Creating a Successful Catalog Design

Marketing & Design Tips

Need print marketing tips or advice? We have a variety of print marketing articles with everything you need for a successful marketing campaign. Learn more.

Folding Options for Menus

Menu folding options explained. The paper stock and weight you use on your printed menus has an impact on the folding options you have available

Graphic Design Help

Marketing & Design Tips

Guides
Jumping into the world of printing? We’ve put together these handy resources to help you get your footing.

Templates

Templates

Templates
Pre-made templates are a great way to springboard your creativity and make sure everything is laid out exactly the way you need it. Utilize one of our printing templates and speed up the printing process even more.

Printing for Less services the technology industry.

Blog Articles

Blog Articles
We’ve compiled a list of our best blog posts to help you dive into custom printing