Understanding Pantone Color Worlds: Comparing Pantone C and Pantone TPX

Introduction: Why two Pantone systems?

Pantone is the global standard for colour communication. However, not every industry works with the same materials. Therefore, Pantone distinguishes between Pantone C (Coated) and Pantone TPX (Textile Paper Extended). Both systems ensure that colours remain consistent – whether on paper, packaging, or fabric.

Pantone C (Coated) – for printing and packaging

  • Application area: Offset and digital printing, brochures, packaging, marketing materials

  • Features: Colours are represented on glossy coated paper, making them appear more intense and vibrant.

  • Typical application: Logos, business stationery, packaging design

Pantone Colours, A Fan Deck Is Visible

Pantone colour worlds, fan decks

Pantone TPX (Textile Paper Extended) – for textiles and lifestyle products

  • Application area: Fashion, home textiles, accessories, product design

  • Features: Colours are shown on cotton or paper samples, adapted to fabrics, yarns, and plastics.

  • Typical application: Clothing, scarves, cushions, promotional items in corporate design

Pantone Fan Deck In A Fabric Warehouse
Pantone Color Worlds
Pantone
CriterionPantone C (Coated)Pantone TPX (Textile Paper Extended)
Main applicationPrint, packaging, brochuresTextiles, fashion, lifestyle products
Material basisPrinted on glossy coated paperSamples on paper or cotton
Colour effectVivid, brilliant, intenseFabric-like, matte, practice-oriented
Target groupGraphic designers, printing companies, marketingFashion designers, textile manufacturers
ExampleCorporate branding on cardboard packagingIndividual scarves in corporate design
Pantone Colours Pietro Baldini Collection
Pantone selection

Conclusion of the Pantone colour worlds

Pantone C and Pantone TPX are not competitors, but two tools for different industries. While C ensures brilliant colours in printing, TPX offers a practical solution for fashion, textiles, and lifestyle products. Those who understand and consistently use both systems secure brand identity across all media.

FAQs

No, they differ in material base and colour effect. A colour can appear more vibrant in print than on fabric.

TPX stands for 'Textile Paper Extended' and is used in fashion, fabrics, and product design.

Pantone C stands for 'Coated' and is used for printing and packaging on coated paper.

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