What color mode should my print files be in

Question

Catdi Printing · Accepted Answer

Your artwork files should always be designed in CMYK color mode. CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) is the color system used in commercial printing, and designing in this mode ensures what you see on screen closely matches what comes off the press. If you send files in RGB color mode (which is designed for screens, not print), a color shift will occur during the conversion to CMYK. Bright blues, vivid greens, and saturated purples are especially affected — they often appear darker or more muted when converted from RGB to CMYK. To avoid surprises, always start your design in CMYK. In Adobe Illustrator, go to File then Document Color Mode then CMYK Color. In Photoshop, go to Image then Mode then CMYK Color. This one step can save you from costly reprints.