CMYK and PMS are two different color systems used in printing.
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is a subtractive color model used in printing, where colors are created by subtracting different percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks from a white sheet of paper. CMYK is a four-color system and is suitable for full-color printing. This color model is commonly used in digital printing, such as laser printers or inkjet printers.
PMS (Pantone Matching System) is a color-matching system used in printing, which provides a standardized set of colors. Each PMS color is created by mixing different amounts of 13 base pigments. PMS colors are pre-mixed, spot colors that are printed using specific inks, not by blending four colors. PMS colors are used to achieve consistent color reproduction across different media and materials, such as printing on paper, fabric, or plastic.
In summary, CMYK is a four-color printing process that uses a combination of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks to create a wide range of colors. PMS is a standardized color-matching system that uses pre-mixed inks to achieve consistent color reproduction.
How does it relate to packaging?
The paper has a lot to do with it. For 4 color process to be effective, the paper needs a clay coating to allow smaller ink dots to be placed and held. Blister Packaging board has this type of coating. Skin pack board does not. The absence of the coating means that the ink soaks into the paper and spreads slightly. This spread causes the finished printing to look a bit washed out and dull. As a rule, blister cards are usually printed with 4 color process (though extra colors can be added for an exact match, using PMS). Skin board is usually printed with PMS colors because it is measurable and repeatable from run to run. Since many skin packaging prints are 1-2 colors it also saves on printing plates and setup charges.
