Which color would typically be the first to print in the CMYK process?

In the CMYK printing process, while all colors are important, cyan is typically the first to be laid down on the printing plate. The CMYK model, which stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black), relies on a specific layering sequence to achieve the desired colors in printed materials. Starting with cyan allows the printer to build a solid foundation, ensuring that brighter colors are even more vibrant when other inks are layered on top.

The reason for this order is based on the transparency and overlay of inks. Since cyan is a lighter color, applying it first helps in achieving a balanced and dynamic color mix as additional colors are subsequently added. The layering process is crucial in offset printing, where each color is applied separately and in sequence to produce a full-color image. By laying down cyan first, printers can better control the resulting hues and tonal values, ultimately leading to a more accurate representation of the desired colors in the final product.