CMYK vs Spot Colour Simulation
When it comes to printing full-colour or photographic artwork, there are two advanced screen printing methods we use at Print Room NZ: CMYK and Spot Colour Simulation. Here's how they differ — and when we recommend each.
CMYK Printing (Process Printing)
What it is: CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black (Key). These four transparent inks are printed in tiny overlapping dots to create the illusion of full-colour images — similar to how your home or office printer works.
Best for:
White t-shirts only
Photographic or detailed artwork with smooth gradients
Designs with lots of colours but no bright whites or bold solids
Limitations:
Can only be printed on white garments (the inks are transparent)
Colours may look slightly muted compared to spot colours
Not suitable for bold or flat graphic-style artwork
Spot Colour Simulation (Simulated Process)
What it is: Instead of using just 4 inks, simulated process uses custom-mixed spot colours to closely match the design. These are printed in specific layers to build up complex images, including gradients, bright colours, and dark fabric compatibility.
Best for:
Dark or coloured garments
Artwork that includes both photographic detail and bold graphics
Bright whites, neons, metallics, or high-impact prints
Limitations:
Requires more screens (usually 6–10+), so more complex to set up
Best suited to vector artwork or high-res separated files
Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature
CMYK Printing
Spot Colour Simulation
Ink Colours Used
4 (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black)
6–10+ spot colours, mixed to match design
Garment Colour Compatibility
Only on white garments
Works on light and dark garments
Colour Accuracy
Good, but slightly muted
Excellent – bright whites and strong colours
Best For
Photos, smooth gradients on white tees
Bold + detailed art, high colour accuracy
Setup Complexity
Simpler setup
More screens and detailed separations required
Finish & Feel
Soft and smooth
Soft but slightly heavier with more ink coverage
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