A system converts grayscale image data into device independent image data that mimics highlight printing of the grayscale image at a full color printer. The system is preferably implemented in a plug-in for a document control program so a data object associated with the document control program may be used to generate device independent color space data from the grayscale data. A data converter uses a device independent profile to convert the device independent color space data to a second device independent color space that corresponds to a selected highlight for printing. When a device dependent profile associated with a printing station converts the second device independent color space data for printing, the resulting four color data emulates highlight printing of the original grayscale image. Thus, a full color printer may be used for grayscale printing, duotone printing, and full color printing without requiring tone or ink changes.