What are web safe colors?

Web Safe Colors: A group of 200+ colors deemed “safe” because they are supposed to remain consistent when viewed on a variety of computer screens. Unfortunately, colors will appear differently on screen then they do when printed, and colors will also appear differently on various computer screens. This could be a problem when you want to extend your brand from printed materials to the web. A good graphic designer will share these differences with you and work with you to find the best possible colors for both on-screen and print color schemes.

What are PMS colors?

PMS: In the graphic design world, PMS = Pantone Matching System. This is a standard color system where a number specifies each color and the inks are specially mixed. This assures consistent results from one print vendor to the next. Also known as “spot colors,” PMS colors can be printed on their own or in addition to the CMYK process. You can learn more about Pantone colors at, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantone. Pantone has been working on steering away from the PMS acronym (mood swings, anyone?), but I think it will still be around for a while.

What is CMYK?

CMYK: CMYK is also known as the four-color process (the four colors are Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black). In the printing process your file is separated into these four colors and each color plate is run individually. The blending and layering of these fours colors together create the full color spectrum.

What is a bleed?

Bleed: A design element that runs to the very edge of the page is a “bleed.” This is commonly used when designing for print and gives you a more professional look, because it indicates professional printing rather then printing from your home ink jet or laser printer. Printing on a larger sheet and then cutting to the finished size creates the bleed effect.

What is a design concept?

Concepts: After we have learned about your business and project goals, the designer’s next step is to come up with examples, or design solutions, to meet your needs—these are referred to as “concepts.” I usually create two to three concepts to offer my clients a variety of solutions. From here you choose which concept you want to expand on and move forward with.