Multiink

Multiink is a term used in printing and color reproduction to describe systems that use more than the traditional four process inks (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). By expanding the ink set with additional process or spot colors, multiink technologies aim to increase the color gamut, improve tonal separation, and produce smoother gradients and more accurate skin tones. Multiink configurations are implemented in various printing technologies, including offset, digital inkjet, and screen printing.

Common implementations include adding light cyan and light magenta to create light inks that improve shadows and smooth gradients, often described as CMYK+Lc+Lm. Some configurations also add orange, green, or violet to broaden the color gamut beyond the standard six inks. In many workflows, spot-color inks are kept alongside process inks to achieve exact brand colors or metallic effects.

Applications include high-end graphic reproduction, photography, packaging, posters, and signage where tighter color control and smoother tonal transitions are desired. Multiink systems are favored in environments that require color accuracy and repeatability across multiple machines.

Considerations include increased ink costs, more frequent maintenance, and the need for color-management workflows and ICC profiles. Substrate compatibility and drying times may vary with additional inks. Not all projects benefit from a multiink setup, and the decision depends on print quality requirements, volume, and budget.