The one thing that matters the most in your packaging presentation is its design. The colors that you see on the screen are different from the ones that you see on your packaging. Ever wonder why?
Due to the lack of RGB methods of printing directly to paper, no matter what printer you use, your project will be printed in CMYK format. To help you better understand CMYK and RGB, we have curated a whole guide for you. But before that let’s understand the difference between RGB & CMYK.
What is RGB?

RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, which are the primary colors of light. In this color model, the 3 colors are combined together to create a broad spectrum of color. This color model is used in computer screens and other electronic displays.
What is CMYK?

CMYK consists of four main colors and stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). Unlike the RGB color model, this color model does not extract colors from light, but CMYK gets colors from absorbing inks.
Difference between CMYK & RGB

CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) and RGB (Red, Green, Blue) are color models used in different contexts. CMYK is used for printing because it mixes ink colors to create other colors, starting with white paper. RGB is used for digital screens, mixing light colors to create other colors, starting with a black screen. The main difference is that CMYK is printable on paper in the packaging production process, whereas RGB is not printable!
Why Choose the Right Color Mode for Your Printing Project?

When you’re designing an image to get printed in Adobe Illustrator then make sure you design it in CMYK color mode so it can get printed with accurate colors.
If you prefer RGB for your printed design, you cannot guarantee that you will get the same results as you see on the screen. Color inaccuracies of any degree can lead to serious issues.
When you’re designing your design on screen the RGB color is most accurate. The use of CMYK might result in colors not appearing correctly on the screen.
In short, if you’re printing, then using CMYK color mode is the appropriate one, and if you are designing your artwork on a screen, then using a RGB gives you the most accurate color.
Where to use the RGB color model?
- Screens for digital devices such as computers, mobile phones, and televisions are included in the projects
- Suitable for web design and application development
- Helps in branding & social media
Where to use the CMYK color mode?
- The projects include designs for physical prints.
- Ideas for branding materials, such as business cards.
- Perfect for advertising purposes, including posters, product packaging, and flyers.
- Utilized by fabric brands, such as those producing T-shirts.
How to Convert RGB to CMYK Without Losing Color?
The conversion from RGB to CMYK can require some preparation to attain the best possible results. This ensures your project’s colors translate accurately when printed and minimizes the need for adjustments later. Ideally, you can create your project directly in CMYK mode. This eliminates the conversion step altogether.
Even if you start in RGB, most editing software allows you to find close color matches in CMYK. While some advanced techniques can further enhance post-conversion colors, this guide focuses on a straightforward conversion process. For professional printing needs, involving a printing expert early on is highly recommended!
How to Convert RGB to CMYK in Adobe Illustrator?

When you are designing your folding carton packaging design on Adobe Illustrator, you have to make sure that you have changed the color mode from RGB to CMYK. Here is a step-by-step guide to change it:
Step 1 → Open Adobe Illustrator
Step 2 → Go to Menu Bar and Select File
Step 3 → Drop Menu will appear. Select Document Color Mode
Step 4 → Now Select CMYK Color.
Now you are all set to design your packaging artwork in CMYK color mode.
How to Convert RGB to CMYK in Adobe Photoshop?

When designing your packaging artwork in Adobe Photoshop, it’s crucial to change the color mode from RGB to CMYK. Follow this step-by-step guide to change it:
Step 1 → Open Adobe Photoshop
Step 2 → Go to Menu Bar and Select Image
Step 3 → Drop Menu will appear. Select Mode
Step 4 → Now Select CMYK Color.
Now, you are all set to design your packaging artwork in CMYK color mode.
Find Similar Colors

To address color issues after conversion, filter the CMYK color code to find hues that closely match your desired colors. This approach minimizes changes and differences in your project after converting to CMYK.
Once you have identified similar colors for all your desired shades, adjust the original file to correct any colors that don’t have a close match. Then, simply convert the file.
Use the Latest Printer for Better Results

To get the most accurate results from the conversion of RGB to CMYK project, use a high-quality printer. Using a quality printer will allow you to design with brighter colors.
A printer that is older or inferior might cause your colors to look dull and different from what you expect. You cannot get vivid colors and vibrant prints by using an old printer.
Final Thoughts
Converting RGB to CMYK can be a crucial step in ensuring your packaging design looks its best in print. Understanding the differences between these color models and using the appropriate one for your project can significantly impact the outcome.
By starting your design in CMYK or carefully converting your colors, you can maintain color accuracy and achieve professional results. Additionally, using a high-quality printer will further enhance the vibrancy and precision of your printed designs. For the best results, always consider involving a printing expert early in the process.