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Printing Projects

Tips for the Printing Novice

di-cut printing

By Winn Apple   |   Published Feb, 2014

 

Printing seems as though it should be a simple process - you create a business card, brochure or other marketing material and send it the printer. It should come out exactly how you'd invisioned...right? Well, that's not the case.

There are numerous factors that impact the final results in priting - some within your control and others not, like weather. Yup, weather affects printing - heat, moisture and the works.

So in order to give your print job the best chance of turning out beautifully, it’s essential that you thoroughly proof your documents before sending to the printers. Everything needs to be perfect, saving you time, money, and your sanity.

Here are some simple guidelines to follow:

 

Timing

Be sure you know your printer’s turnaround times before starting your project.They can differ slightly. Be aware that the turn around time begins AFTER you approve your proof - as opposed to when you submit your product files.

 

Consider allowing a bit of wiggle room for the timing of your print job. There is no limit to the mishaps that happen in printing - machine failures, and any other unexpected delays should be factored in. Planning guards against panic around the deadline and is essential to getting your product printed and delivered to the client on time and according to specifications.

di-cut printing

 

Embed your fonts for accurate reproduction

Don't expect your printer to have a huge collection of fonts. To prevent font substitutions you can embed your fonts into your file or send the font file to your printer. If you plan on using the same printer for multiple projects, sending the font file would be a great idea.

 

Print size matters

Don't make your viewer squint! There are graphic designers who allow design to trump funtionality. The intention behind any marketing material is delivering information. Ofoucrse a killer design will encourage someone to pick it up, but you need to deliver the information in a clear concise manner.

 

Proof your document thoroughly

One of the best ways to proof your copy is to read it backwards at least once. It may sound illogical, but it makes it much easier to spot any glaring errors. Make sure you have another set of eyes scan your project. Ideally your client should sign off on the content on the card. They will better spot an error in contact information and content.

 

Check your image proportions, dimensions and resolution

Image file size should be atleast 300 dpi. You can certainly go higher, but that is sufficent.

 

Consistency is key

One of the things that separates a highly successful brand from the rest is consistency in their presentation and style. With this in mind, make your margins consistent throughout your work, especially on multi-page documents.

 

For booklets, page margins need to be equal on both the inside and outside. When you change something on one page, make sure that change is repeated on every other page, as anything else will look awkward and unprofessional. Look for consistency as part of your final proofing.

 

di-cut printing

 

Convert your graphic to CMYK

Whether your product is printed on an offset press or a digital press, your project will be printed in CMYK - and occassionally PMS spot colors. Regardless, you'll need to convert your files to CMYK if you are creating them in RGB.

 

The color will look very different on your screen, which is in RGB, than in print.Do not expect the color to match what you see on screen.

 

Get a proof

If the color of your project needs to be spot on, make sure you get a printers proof. It cost a bit extra, but in the long run it will save you money.

 

Bleeds

The standard bleed for your document should be 3mm to allow for any variations in printing and cutting.You don't want to loose any essential information during the cutting process.

If you have questions and concerns, just contact your printer. They wil help guide you through the process.

 

The above examples were all beautifully printed here at PrintingGreen / Bacchus Press. We have over 33 years of experience delivering Award Winning Printing. If you have a print job in the works but need some guidance don't hesitate to drop us a line or submit a quote request for your more complex printing.


 

Do you have Print Ready Files? Why not send them to press! Order Now

 

About the Author

In addition to crafting content and blogs, Winn Apple writes short stories and novellas for middle-grade readers. You can find her short stories along with a portfolio on her site, MysticJunkyard.com or on her soon to release website, snugbuggle.com - the best darn place to find short stories for kids.

 

Tips on Promoting Your Business

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