Using Pantone colors

[olive_and_finch]

In the Pantone color options, I see that they have a neon + pastels collection. I like to create vibrant graphics using RGB but those colors cannot be printed on a CMYK printer. Whenever I convert regular vibrant RBG colors to CMYK, they are very dull and dark. I was told that when designing, Pantone colors should be used to have consistent screen-to-print colors when you send a graphic off to commercial printing.

If the printers are only using CMYK, then how do they create the brightest colors from the neon Pantone collection? Is there certain equipment that the commercial printer will need to accomplish this?  I'm not sure how to ask the printing company about the potential of an idea I have. 

[Ton Frederiks]

"If the printers are only using CMYK, then how do they create the brightest colors from the neon Pantone collection?"

Pantone colors are reproduced by special mixed inks to be able to print colors that cannot be printed using CMYK inks.

[Doug A Roberts]

"If the printers are only using CMYK, then how do they create the brightest colors from the neon Pantone collection?"

They can't with just CMYK.

"Is there certain equipment that the commercial printer will need to accomplish this?"

They will need Pantone inks.

"I'm not sure how to ask the printing company about the potential of an idea I have."

Ask them if you can use Pantone spot colours in your design and if they have any limitations on what you can use. Also, ask about the potential cost implications of using extra spot inks.