Why Your Screen Design Might Not Match Your Print: A Guide for Educational Institutions

When you're working on a design project, nothing is more frustrating than seeing your vibrant screen design turn dull or inaccurate once it’s printed. This mismatch between screen colours and print colours is a common issue in the world of design—but it’s also one that can be avoided with the right knowledge and support.

At Education Design and Print, we often get asked: “Why don’t the colours on my screen match what I get back on paper?” Let's break it down.

Understanding Colour Models

1. RGB vs CMYK – Two Different Languages

The biggest reason for colour discrepancies comes down to how colours are created.

• Screens use RGB (Red, Green, Blue): This colour model mixes light to produce colours. It’s great for digital displays, which emit light directly.

• Printers use CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black): This model blends ink on paper. Instead of emitting light, it reflects light, which naturally changes the colour perception.

  
  

Because RGB can produce a wider range of colours (called a gamut) than CMYK, certain bright or neon-like hues you see on screen simply can't be replicated exactly in print.

2. Screen Settings Vary

Your design might look amazing on your laptop, but completely different on your colleague's monitor or a client’s tablet. That’s because every screen has:

• Different brightness and contrast settings

• Different colour calibration

• Variations in display technology (LCD vs OLED, etc.)

  
  

Unless you're working on a calibrated monitor, what you see isn’t guaranteed to be colour-accurate.

3. Paper and Ink Affect Outcome

Even if you convert your file perfectly to CMYK, the final result still depends on:

• Paper type (Glossy, matte, recycled, coated, uncoated)

• Ink absorption

• Printing process and machines used

  
  

Glossy paper, for example, will make colours appear more vibrant, while uncoated paper gives a softer, muted look.

How to Ensure Accurate Colour Printing

4. What You Can Do – And How We Can Help

At Education Design and Print, we don’t just print—we partner with educators, designers, and organisations to make sure the final product looks exactly how you want it. Here’s how we support you:

✅ Expert Colour Matching

Our prepress team reviews your files and flags any colour issues before they go to print. We can help convert RGB files to CMYK properly and advise on how certain colours will render.

✅ Proofing Services

Want to see a physical sample before the final print run? No problem. We offer digital and physical proofing options so you know exactly what to expect.

✅ Paper & Finish Guidance

Not sure what paper will best showcase your design? We’ll guide you on finishes, weights, and textures to ensure your colours pop and your message stands out.

✅ File Setup Support

From bleed and margins to resolution and colour profiles, we’re here to make sure your files are production-ready.

Common Colour Issues and Solutions

5. Identifying Common Problems

Many designers encounter similar issues when transitioning from screen to print. Here are a few common problems and how to address them:

• Dull Colours: If your printed colours look muted, consider using glossy paper or adjusting your colour settings.

• Unexpected Shades: Always check how your colours convert from RGB to CMYK. Some shades may not translate well.

• Inconsistent Results: Ensure that your files are set up correctly with the right profiles and settings before sending them to print.

  
  

6. Tips for Better Colour Accuracy

Here are some practical tips to help you achieve better colour accuracy in your print projects:

• Use a Calibrated Monitor: This ensures that what you see on screen is as close to the final print as possible.

• Choose the Right Paper: Different papers can dramatically affect how colours appear. Always test with samples.

• Consult with Experts: Don’t hesitate to reach out for advice on colour matching and file preparation.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Seeing a design not print as expected can be disappointing, but it’s not your fault—and it’s fixable. Understanding the difference between screen and print colour systems is the first step, and having the right print partner is the second.

Let Education Design and Print be your colour-confidence team. Whether it’s a prospectus, a newsletter, posters, or student planners—we’ll help you bridge the gap between digital designs and beautiful, accurate print.

Need help with colour matching or preparing your next print job?📩 Get in touch with our friendly team today. We’re always happy to advise before you hit "print."

Remember, achieving the perfect print starts with understanding the nuances of colour. With our support, you can ensure that your designs shine just as brightly on paper as they do on your screen.