adobe photoshop - digital artwork design working in RGB or CMYK (or pantone) for printing?

I am running into a lot of problem on Design my artwork in photoshop in RGB.

Then convert to CMYK in PDF format. Then when I print it with print company, Colors are not always right.

I am not really sure what is the "good & correct" way out there. Because my artwork has texture & transparency.

My workflow--> create artwork in photoshop in RGB

After approved by boss, I try to find pantone colors that is close to my print out and switch to Pantone.

Does this sound wrong to any of you ?

It's seems so complicated but I have to ensure certain color is right.

Any better suggestion?

Lori

Answer

I usually start by working in CMYK mode if I intend to use the file for print.

As you have noticed screens can't replicate CMYK colours exactly but InDesign/Photoshop etc tries to emulate them. There is certainly going to be variations between what you see and what gets printed.

I suggest you spend a bit of resources getting a Pantone swatch book so you know what the colours will actually look like in print. If printing digitally you can always request a test print from the printers.