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How do I convert spot colors to process colors in Illustrator?

Published in Adobe Illustrator 3 mins read

To convert spot colors to process (CMYK) colors in Adobe Illustrator, you can use the following method, often involving the "Select Similar" function:

  1. Select an object with the spot color: Choose an object that uses the spot color you want to convert.

  2. Select Similar: Go to Select > Same > Fill Color (or Stroke Color, depending on where the spot color is applied). This will select all objects in your document that use that specific spot color.

  3. Change Color Mode (if needed): If your document isn't already in CMYK mode, go to File > Document Color Mode > CMYK Color. This is crucial for the colors to be correctly converted to CMYK.

  4. Recolor Artwork: Use the "Recolor Artwork" feature:

    • Select the selected objects (from step 2).
    • Go to Edit > Edit Colors > Recolor Artwork... or click the "Recolor Artwork" button in the Control Panel (if visible) or Properties panel.
    • In the Recolor Artwork dialog box, if the spot color is identified, double-click the color swatch under the "Current Colors" section.
    • Choose a CMYK equivalent color from the color picker, or use the color sliders/panels to define a specific CMYK value. The color will now be a process color.
    • Click "OK" to apply the change.

  5. Alternative Method (Swatches Panel):

    • Open the Swatches panel (Window > Swatches).
    • Double-click the spot color swatch you want to convert.
    • In the Swatch Options dialog box, change the Color Type from "Spot Color" to "Process Color".
    • Adjust the CMYK values as needed.
    • Click "OK." All objects using that swatch will now use the process color equivalent.

Key Considerations:

  • Color Shift: Be aware that converting spot colors to process colors can cause a slight color shift. Spot colors often have a wider gamut than CMYK, meaning some spot colors cannot be perfectly reproduced with CMYK inks. Carefully check the converted colors to ensure they are acceptable.
  • Global vs. Non-Global Swatches: If your spot color is a global swatch (meaning changing the swatch updates all instances), using the Swatches panel method is often the most efficient. If it's a non-global spot color, the "Select Similar" method followed by recoloring works well.
  • Proofing: It's always a good idea to create a proof (either a physical proof or a soft proof using Illustrator's View > Proof Setup and Proof Colors options) to see how the colors will actually print in CMYK.

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