 Whether you’re a designer, illustrator or photographer, your work will eventually end up in print.
A good working relationship with a printer is one of the most important associations you will require, they must take pride in their work as you do in yours. The printer is there to help you achieve your goal.
The more organized and professional you are, the easier it is for the printer to complete your jobs on time.
There are several types of printers, and it is likely that one will not fulfill all of your printing needs, but it is very important you can find one with whom you can develop a mutually beneficial working relationship.
A CSR (customer service representative) will listen and record on the companies order form as much detail that you give, it is important at this stage that all details are given such as quantity required, type of paper, number of colours ie spot colours or cmyk, type of finish required and deadline.
An estimate can only be given once all details have been recorded.
At this stage being well organized and communicating clearly is essential don’t be afraid to ask as many questions that will benefit you and your client.
One of the most common questions a printer will be asked is "How long will it take to produce your clients work?"
There are many variables that determine the turn around time, you will require to see a proof, type of proof is determined by you the originator, the printer not only requires the file but also requires a hard copy print out of your files to be able to confirm that is all correct. A proof can be sent to you directly to view on screen this is known as a soft proof, colour is determined on screen settings by both parties not recommended for final proof but can save time at first proof stage especially if the printer and designer are not local.
A Laser proof, Digital proof and Inkjet proof are self explanatory, and vary in price to produce.
 A press check is where you can go and see the first few impressions coming off the litho press, the only true proofing method that will give the exact colour measurement, as it is true litho ink on the exact substrate for final output this is the advantage of using a local printer.
The other variables that can delay delivery would be whether the printer had the exact paper or ink in stock, some options like die cutting and spot uv may be sent to a third party thus adding extra days to delivery time.
Some Companies prefer to send their files via the internet and request a final inkjet proof to be sent to them via post this enables them to provide a quality proof to their client, get it signed and returned to the printer confident that all is correct and seen by all 3 parties.
Remember an estimate is just that it is given at the beginning of an order and is option to change on the above variables already mentioned. You can avoid surprises by preparing files correctly and proofing internally some prepress work by the printer is normal but don’t expect numerous proofs, retouching artwork, scanning and typing corrections without being charged, be prepared to pay for this extra time.
Choose the right software for the job make sure it is up to date and is the professional software like Quarkxpress, Adobe InDesign, Freehand, Photoshop always check with your printer that the software used is compatible to their systems.
We use the latest Computer to Plate system with ink volume setting software this enables us to give you a consistent high quality finish to your print project.
If you require further information send your questions via email to
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Printing