tips on printing
If you have something you need to print, a good first step is to decide which type of printer is right for your project. What is the lifespan of your finished printed item, is it a flyer people will glance at and throw away, or a calendar to be hung on a wall for 12 months? Your answers will help determine the type of paper and the quality of print you should use. Special projects, such as signage, will require a specialized printer.
The quantity want printed will determine whether it is more cost effective to print on color laser printer in your home office or at a copy center? If you are printing a significant quantity you may need to book time with a professional printer.
The lifespan and users of the item you are printing will give you direction on how much time and money to spend on design. Could you design it yourself using inexpensive home publishing software? Is this a project for your graphic designer friend, or do you need to hire a professional advertising or design firm? Shop around for the right match to your needs. Keep in mind printers offer design services and working with the same printer for both design and print might save you money. The printer will also help you with paper selection and coordination of any finishing services you may need, such as bindery, assembly, 3-hole punching, stapling etc.
Make sure the designer knows how to prepare the digital files to be press ready. A professional printer will be able to provide file specifications for the submission of your files.
The most importaNT of these tips on printing is proof, proof and proof again. Get your friends, family and the girl at the coffee shop to read through your copy. It is amazing how quickly you can see a typo when you have the final printed piece in your hand.