How to Convert Your File from CMYK to RGB

Short Summary

This article explains why Stackhouse files should be uploaded in RGB color mode and how to convert CMYK files before ordering.

Quick Answer

Upload files in RGB color mode. CMYK images may be blocked by the upload system, so convert the file to RGB, review the color after conversion, and save a new JPEG, PNG, or TIFF before uploading.

Before You Begin

• Save a copy of the original CMYK file before converting.
• Review colors after conversion because some CMYK colors can shift in RGB.
• Embed an RGB color profile when your editing app allows it.
• Export a flattened JPEG, PNG, or TIFF for upload.

How It Works

Adobe Photoshop

Open the file, choose Image > Mode > RGB Color, review the image, then save or export a JPEG, PNG, or TIFF copy.

Adobe Illustrator

Open the file, choose File > Document Color Mode > RGB Color, review the artwork, then export a print-ready JPEG, PNG, or TIFF copy.

Affinity Photo or Affinity Designer

Open the document, convert the document color format/profile to RGB, review the result, and export a flattened JPEG, PNG, or TIFF.

Procreate

If you are starting a new canvas, choose an RGB color profile before creating the artwork. If the file already exists, export the final artwork as a high-quality RGB image when available.

Canva

Canva export options can be limited. Review Canva Color Profile Limitations for Printing if you are preparing artwork from Canva.

Important Notes

• RGB is the expected upload color mode for The Stackhouse print workflow.
• Converting color mode can change the appearance of some saturated or out-of-gamut colors.
• Do not overwrite your only master file. Save a converted copy for upload.
• If your file has no embedded color profile, the uploader may show a warning about possible color shifts.

Examples

Example 1: CMYK JPEG blocked by upload

Open the file in Photoshop, convert it to RGB Color, export a new JPEG, and upload the RGB copy.

Example 2: Illustrator poster file

Change the document color mode to RGB, inspect key brand or artwork colors, then export a flattened print-ready image.

Example 3: Canva artwork

Download the highest-quality image file available, then review the Canva color-profile limitations article before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does The Stackhouse ask for RGB instead of CMYK?

Our upload and print workflow expects RGB image files. CMYK is common in offset printing, but it can cause upload and processing issues in this workflow.

Will my colors change when I convert to RGB?

Some colors may shift. Review the converted file before uploading and keep the original file in case you need to adjust it.

Which RGB profile should I use?

sRGB is a safe general choice for many customers. If you already manage color carefully, use an RGB profile that fits your workflow and keep it embedded in the exported file.

Related Articles

• What Are Color Profiles and Why Do They Matter?
• How to Embed a Color Profile
• Common Image Upload Issues and How to Fix Them
• How to Prepare Your Image Files for Printing
• Canva Color Profile Limitations for Printing

Need More Help?

If you still need assistance, submit a Help Center request with the editing app you are using, the file format, and the color-mode or upload error you are seeing.