Pantone to RGB/CMYK
Color Converter
Convert between Pantone PMS, HEX, RGB, CMYK, and HSL. Preview your color on different garment fabrics to see exactly how it'll look on a real t-shirt.
Color Conversion for Apparel Design
Accurate color conversion is critical in apparel production. Your design looks one way on screen (RGB) and can look completely different when printed (CMYK) or matched to a Pantone swatch. Understanding the differences between color models helps you communicate exactly what you want to your printer.
When to Use Each Color Model
Pantone (PMS) — The gold standard for color matching in fashion and apparel. Use Pantone codes when communicating with screen printers, fabric dyers, and manufacturers. Each code refers to a specific, standardized color.
HEX / RGB — Used for digital mockups, website colors, and social media. If you're designing in Photoshop, Figma, or Canva for screen display, these are your formats.
CMYK — Used for anything printed on paper: hang tags, packaging, lookbooks, and business cards. Always convert to CMYK before sending to a print shop.
Why Colors Look Different on Fabric
The same ink color prints differently on white cotton vs. dark cotton vs. polyester. On dark fabrics, a white underbase layer is printed first, then the color on top — this can shift the hue slightly. On polyester, sublimation dye bonds differently than plastisol ink on cotton, producing more vibrant results. Always request a print sample on the actual fabric before committing to a large order.
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