> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.coraye.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.coraye.com/colors-tables/create-a-color-table-from-a-spot-color-chart-measurement.md).

# Create a color table from a spot color chart measurement

As you probably know, your printing system is not able to reproduce all the colors in your reference color chart. \
But how do you get your customers or creatives color tables that will reflect exactly what the colors will be in the final print? \
The method we propose consists of generating charts made up of spot colors from your color chart (PANTONE® for example), printing them under normal conditions and then measuring them to create a color table that will serve as a reference later.

### Import of color chart

Let's start by importing a color chart (for example PANTONE®) with File> Open file.

![](/files/-MOSDOU742yKb_GdshVq)

### Creation of the test pattern containing the spot colors in pdf format

In "**Print Control**" click on "**Create a reference**"

![](/files/-MOSD1h-tvu6lSqTqmjd)

Select the "Direct tone" color space

![](/files/-MOSDhPuqF9neeCuw1vK)

Drag the color chart file located in the left column into the "**Drag a color table here**" area

![](/files/-MOSDmaRL7TVkELlKeTt)

Click on the button "**Use norm's lab**"

![](/files/-MOSDsf0WgFPPzoSER4Q)

The test pattern containing the spot colors is displayed Export this test chart in Pdf in order to print it later, then click on "**Next**".

![](/files/-MOSTuO7qN95iITCO8hr)

Name the project "**Print Control**" \
In this information window, only the name of the setting is mandatory. All other information is optional.

![](/files/-MOSUV_VUh41HQtnnRI8)

Click on the "**Save and Quit**" button

![](/files/-MOSUZolhsZKmNxlY29l)

### Printing the test pattern

The printout of the test chart containing the spot color chart must be printed under production conditions.

{% hint style="warning" %}
You must use a RIP capable of handling spot colors.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
If you are using swatches containing custom colors, remember to import them into the RIP.
{% endhint %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/-LjRZ7m\_9VHQyV5ahMiO" %}
[Colors tables](/colors-tables/colors-tables.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

![](/files/-MT_YmDMGniut1DBkW3r)

### Target measurement

The measurement of the printed test chart will be done from the "Print Control" file previously created. \
Right-click on the "**Print Control**" file and select "**Start control**".

![](/files/-MOSFccpGVb2ARmQ-y7i)

Make sure the spectrophotometer is connected, then click "**Start Reading**"

![](/files/-MOShUXGWFEf1X1xz1i8)

Select the spectrophotometer options.

![](/files/-MOSiTNnOSMK6HAGcT58)

Position the spectrophotometer in its calibration position, then click on "**Start calibration**"

![](/files/-MOSiYTWwt5FYViiM_gc)

Start reading

![](/files/-MIK6UK4iu0lcI2GHcBm)

While measuring the range, you have the possibility to view the deviations between the reference values and the measured values, by hovering over the patches.

![](/files/-MOSGFQi24eaAmrHYBrE)

### Export of the table

Once the test pattern is finished, export the measurement in .table format

![](/files/-MOSN0CrxEHn0UVu_BU4)

![](/files/-MOSGLiBg8PIJzSjEdI0)

The color table in .table format can be converted, subsequently, to be adapted in different formats compatible with RIPs or Adobe suite software.

Import the .table file with File> Open File.

![](/files/-MOSGUIz5CFDiBXz-hnE)

The color table will appear in the left column. \
Right click on the file and> Export> select the destination format.

![](/files/-MOSGZBCytQMQN62PoxB)

You will find in the chapter "**Color Table**" different procedures explaining the import of these tables into the main RIPs and software on the market.