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PMS Black 7 C

Gray · desaturated, dark

Color values

HEX #21211E
RGB 33, 33, 30
CMYK 0, 0, 11, 87
HSL 60, 5%, 12%

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How to use PMS Black 7 C in production

This is a Pantone Coated reference - mix the spec'd ink to PMS Black 7 for any production method that uses pre-mixed spot color (screen print on apparel, embroidery thread match, pad print, foil stamping, packaging spot color). For four-color process printing (CMYK on coated paper, brochures, business cards, full-color UV print on hard-goods), the conversion above is the closest CMYK approximation - confirm the proof against an official PANTONE Color Bridge Coated guide before approving production.

Color characteristics

  • Family: Gray
  • Brightness: dark (HSL lightness 12%)
  • Saturation: desaturated (HSL saturation 5%)
  • Print contrast: reverses well on light substrates; risk of muddying on dark substrates without an underbase

Closest neighboring Pantone Coated colors

The eight nearest PMS Coated colors by RGB distance. If a printer can't get an exact match on PMS Black 7, these are the closest fallbacks.

Frequently asked

What is the HEX code for PMS Black 7?

The HEX equivalent of Pantone Black 7 C is #21211E. This is an informational approximation - on a calibrated screen this HEX will look close to PMS Black 7, but ink-on-substrate can vary.

What is the RGB code for PMS Black 7?

The RGB equivalent is 33, 33, 30.

What is the CMYK code for PMS Black 7?

The CMYK equivalent is 0, 0, 11, 87. Use this for four-color process printing on coated paper.

Can I print PMS Black 7 as a CMYK build?

You can, but the four-color process can only approximate a Pantone spot color. Roughly 30% of the Pantone solid library does not convert cleanly to CMYK. For brand-critical work, screen print or pad print the spot ink directly; for collateral on coated paper, the CMYK above is the closest equivalent.

What is the difference between PMS Black 7 C and PMS Black 7 U?

The "C" suffix means coated (ink on glossy paper); "U" means uncoated (ink on matte paper). The same Pantone number can look meaningfully different across the two because uncoated paper absorbs more ink. Confirm with your printer which guide they are matching to.

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