---
type: faq
title: "What is spot color printing and how does it differ from CMYK?"
description: "The two methods reach color from opposite directions. Spot color lays down a single pre-mixed ink for each color, while CMYK builds every color from tiny d"
resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/general/what-is-spot-color-printing-and-how-does-it-differ-from-cmyk
tags: ["Marketing Materials", "faq"]
timestamp: 2026-07-20T18:54:40.856Z
---

# What is spot color printing and how does it differ from CMYK?

The two methods reach color from opposite directions. Spot color lays down a single pre-mixed ink for each color, while CMYK builds every color from tiny d

Part of the **Marketing Materials** hub. See [all faq concepts](index.md).

- Page type: faq
- Hub: Marketing Materials
- URL: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/general/what-is-spot-color-printing-and-how-does-it-differ-from-cmyk