A table of image editing software which supports both colour separation file creation and layer-based editing. Information in support of various posts on digital printmaking and the use of digital processes in support of analogue methods.
| Software Name | Colour Separation Support | Layer Support | Platform(s) | Notes |
| Adobe Photoshop | Yes | Yes | Windows, macOS | Industry standard; supports CMYK separations and advanced layer tools. PS Elements has support for Layers but not colour separation. |
| Corel PaintShop Pro | Yes | Yes | Windows | Offers CMYK support and robust layer editing |
| Affinity Photo | Yes | Yes | Windows, macOS, iPad | Professional-grade editing with CMYK and spot colour support |
| GIMP | Partial (via plugins) | Yes | Windows, macOS, Linux | Open-source; CMYK separation requires plugins like Separate+ |
| Adobe Illustrator | Yes | Yes | Windows, macOS | Vector-based; ideal for print and colour separations |
| Krita | No | Yes | Windows, macOS, Linux | Focused on digital painting; lacks native CMYK support |
| PhotoLine | Yes | Yes | Windows, macOS | Supports CMYK and spot colours; lesser-known but powerful |
This table of image editing software was collated using AI. I have experience with PaintShop Pro and with an early version of Affinity, but not the others. Use the information with care and double-check the availability of critical elements before any purchase.