clip studio cmyk: Setting Up Image Dimensions and Resolution for Print in Clip Studio Paint

clip studio cmyk: Learn how to set up your file for print in Clip Studio Paint, including image dimensions, resolution, bleed, and exporting in CMYK for high-quality output.

October 17, 2024 at 16:54

Setting up Image Dimensions and Resolution for Print in Clip Studio Paint

When preparing your artwork for print in Clip Studio Paint, it's essential to set up your file correctly to ensure high-quality output. This article will guide you through the process of creating a new file for print, setting up image dimensions and resolution, adding bleed, and exporting your work in CMYK.

Creating a New File for Print

To create a new file for print in Clip Studio Paint, switch to the "Show all Comic settings" option to access advanced settings for optimizing files for print. In the "Unit" option, select cm (centimeter), mm (millimeter), or in (inch) for print preparation.

Image Dimensions and Resolution

In the "Canvas" section, the "Canvas Width" and "Height" options can be ignored for now, as the more detailed settings below will decide them. The "Resolution" option should be set to at least 300 dpi (dots per inch) for good print quality, and 600 dpi for even better quality depending on the printing technique. The "Basic expression color" option determines whether the image will be in color, grayscale, or monochrome.

Binding (Finish) Size and Bleed Width

The "Binding (finish) size" option determines the actual final size of the artwork. Clip Studio Paint includes common image size templates that can be selected from. The "Bleed width" option refers to extra artwork being printed beyond the final artwork size. Bleed is necessary if the artwork needs to take up the entire paper, as printing cannot occur on the very edge of the paper. The "Bleed width" value should be checked with the printing service, as different services have different standards (e.g., 2mm, 5mm).

Other Options

The "Default border (inner) size" option is less relevant for illustrations, but important for comics to determine the area of the page where panels are visible. The "Safety margin" option is explained in the official Clip Studio Paint article and will not be covered here.

Changing Image Dimensions Retroactively

If an artwork was created without setting up the file for print, the image resolution can still be checked and changed. To check the image resolution, go to "Edit" > "Change image resolution". If the file was set up in a pixel format, it will still show as pixels at 72 dpi. Select the desired resolution (e.g., 300 dpi) and adjust the "Width", "Height", and "Scale" options accordingly. If the "Scale" value is higher than 1.00, the image may need to be sized up to reach the higher resolution.

Adjusting Image Size for Printing

To adjust the image size for printing, set the image width and height to the desired size (e.g., 15x15cm). Adjust the scale value to ensure the image is not blurry. Vector layers can help maintain image quality when scaling. The interpolation method should be set to "High accuracy" for most cases.

Adding Bleed to Artwork

To add bleed to your artwork, go to "View" > "Crop Mark / Default border settings" and adjust the values as needed. Note that you cannot extend the canvas size in this window; you must go to "Edit" > "Change Canvas Size" first if necessary.

Exporting Full Color Images in CMYK

Clip Studio Paint primarily works in RGB, but for print, we work in CMYK. RGB is additive, increasing color values brightens the overall color. CMYK is subtractive, increasing color values darkens the overall color. Screens can display brighter colors, but CMYK usually requires spot colors.

Working with CMYK in Clip Studio Paint

To work with CMYK in Clip Studio Paint, go to "View" > "Color profile" > "Preview settings" and select the intended color profile from the "Profile for preview" dropdown. Note that different color profiles are used for different papers and printing services. Select the "Rendering intent" dropdown to choose how colors are converted from RGB to CMYK. Options include "Saturation", which can help maintain a similar look to the RGB version. You can also select "Tonal Correction" to fine-tune contrast on individual color plates.

Saving and Exporting CMYK File

Save the .csp file as a new file with a different name to signify it's the CMYK version. Export the file as a JPG with quality set to 100 or as a TIFF file for higher print quality. Include the "Crop mark" option and select "CMYK color" in the "Expression color" menu. Embed the ICC profile and leave the "Scale ratio from original data" at 100%.

Preparing Images for Two-Tone Spot Color Print in Clip Studio Paint

Introduction to Spot Colors

Spot colors are pre-mixed colors that allow for brighter and more vivid colors in print. They result in a smoother, cleaner look compared to mixing CMYK colors. Clip Studio Paint does not have built-in support for spot colors, but it can be hacked.

Understanding Spot Colors in Other Programs

In programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign, spot colors can be identified in the "Print Production" menu and "Output Preview" window. Spot colors are listed alongside CMYK colors (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black). Deselecting a spot color shows what is being printed in other colors. Deactivating all CMYK colors and only having the spot color plate visible shows the spot color's instruction to the printer.

Setting up Spot Colors in Clip Studio Paint

The artwork is on its own layer, with everything non-black being transparent. The spot color is a completely black layer with the "Layer Color" effect applied to select the desired color. A white layer is used for highlights. To achieve a spot color effect, select the main artwork layer and the white layer, then invert the selection to get everything that IS supposed to print in the spot color. Create a new layer mask and turn off the "Layer Color" effect to make the layer appear fully black. Manually add information about which color this is supposed to print as using the Text tool.

Tips and Tricks

Use a PANTONE color sampler to determine which color to print in. Write the color information outside of the main printing area and bleed area to avoid it showing up in the print. Phrase the color information as "Print in [your color]".

Finding a Pantone Color

Double-click on the currently active color to note down the RGB values or copy the Hex code. Go to www.pantone.com and select the "Find a Pantone Color" menu option. Select "Convert" > "RGB/CMYK/Hex" on the left. Input the RGB or Hex values and select the correct Color Library (e.g., "PANTONE Pastels & Neons Coated"). Note that "Coated" and "Uncoated" color profiles refer to the paper quality, with coated papers having a smooth or glossy texture and uncoated papers having a coarse and natural feeling texture. Get a suggested Pantone color from the website.

Adding Pantone Color to Text Information

Go back to the file and add the Pantone color to the text information. This can also be done for the Black color plate to be extra clear in communication.

Exporting Spot Color Images

Export two separate TIFF files: one for the spot color plate and one for the black color plate. Make sure both color plates are displayed as pure RGB Black (R=0 G=0 B=0). In the Export Settings window, select "Gray" as the Expression Color. Export a preview RGB JPG file of the artwork and send it to the printer alongside the TIFF files. Add the final print size (after cropping) and color plate information to the file name. Communicate clearly with the printer to ensure they understand the design.

Additional Tips

Overprint colors can be used to print multiple colors in the same space. Keep in mind that printing spot colors with black can result in darker areas. Consider the look you want when setting up the spot color area. This technique can also be used for special printing techniques such as UV coating or glitter coating. Contact the printer to discuss available options and set up the file accordingly.