Fiery Command WorkStation

Fiery Command WorkStation

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Create a new spot color

You can define the L*a*b* values or the CMYK values of a spot color by typing the numerical values, by selecting a visual match from a pattern of color swatches, or by measuring the color of a physical object using a measurement device.

The Spot color matching print option automatically matches spot colors with their best CMYK equivalents or L*a*b* values, so spot colors can be simulated using the CMYK colorants. However, you may want to adjust the default CMYK equivalents or L*a*b* values to achieve a better match for your specific printing conditions. You can modify spot color definitions using Spot Pro.

  1. In Spot Pro, select a spot color group or create a new spot color group for the new spot color.
    • To create a new spot color group, click New > Group.
    • To create a new spot color, click New > Spot Color.
  2. Type a name for your spot color in the Spot color name field.
  3. Do any of the following:

    • To enter the L*a*b* values directly, click in the L*, a*, or b* field and type a new value. Use the Tab key to move from one field to the next.

      Note: You can click the arrow next to L*a*b* to switch the editing mode to CIE LCH to enter the LCH values directly. In the LCH mode, you may modify lightness, hue, or chroma for the selected spot color.

    • Click Measure to measure the L*a*b* values and follow the on-screen instructions.

      Select a measurement instrument from the available list.

    • To enter the CMYK percentage values directly, click in the C, M, Y, or K field and type a new value. Use the Tab key to move from one field to the next.

      The separation values are computed based on the selected output profile for the given media or substrate. This may be particularly useful to remove contaminants or visual artifacts, such as spotting, or a cloudy appearance caused by black or cyan dots. For CMYK+ profiles, the respective ink separation is available for entry. For example, CMYK and Orange and Violet separation values may be entered when a CMYKOV output profile is selected.

  4. To print a test page, click the arrow next to Variations and select Print.

    You may choose the patch layout for the variations, and select the media or substrate source.

    Matching spot colors accurately on a monitor is very difficult. Always print a test page to get the proper color match.

  5. Do one of the following:
    • Click Cancel to abort creating a new spot color, exit the Spot Pro color editor pane, and return to the Spot Pro color preview pane.
    • Click Save to save your spot color, without leaving the Spot Pro color editor pane.
    • Click Done to finish creating a new spot color and to exit the Spot Pro color editor pane.
Parent topic: Managing color