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Design Tips for Print Marketing Materials

When putting your brand out into the world with your marketing materials, everybody wants them to grab attention and convey their brand to their audience. Developing effective print marketing materials requires paying close attention to some design principals that will capture attention while conveying a clear message. You want to make a lasting impression on your audience, and there are a number of ways to accomplish this. 

Working with a trusted Denver commercial printer will maximize your efforts, as they will be able to provide insight into the right methods to use to optimize your print marketing materials. They’ll also be able to implement consistency throughout all of your items – keeping your colors and logos uniform across many different types of marketing. From posters and banners to pamphlets and other handouts, consistency in your message along with the following tips will make a big difference in how your marketing materials are received. 

Understand Your Audience

Before implementing any design, it is critical to understand who your target audience is and the exact message you want to convey to them. By tailoring your design choices to resonate with your audience’s preferences and interests, they’ll be able to reach the right demographic. By understanding your target audience, it will go a long way in creating the right materials. One of the best ways to do this is to keep up with industry trends and changes in consumer behavior, because that will allow you to zero in your messaging. 

There are a number of ways to uncover your target audience and changes within that audience. The easiest way is to engage with your clients – whether directly or through things like email marketing or social media. Using analytics can allow you to gather data about who is visiting your website and the preferences of your target audience. Whichever method you use to gather this information will be extremely helpful in understanding what needs to go into designing your print marketing materials. 

Keep Things Simple

Don’t clutter your design by using too much text or too many graphics. White space in your printed materials can allow the most important elements of your design to breathe, and focuses the reader’s attention on your message. You want your message to be easily understandable at a glance, because that will help keep the viewer of the materials invested. When designing things like print marketing materials, less can definitely be more. 

You want your logos and text to be sharp, and those are the things you want people to remember from the marketing materials. Making them too busy distracts from the overall message and can cloud the overall message. Attention spans are getting shorter and shorter, making a compact and easily understandable message imperative. By tightening up your wording, you can make more of an impact as the message is easier to digest. It will also allow for more attention to your logos and images, which will also hold the viewer’s focus. 

High-Quality Graphics & Materials

Investing in high-resolution images and other graphics will deliver sharpness and clarity in your print materials. The last thing you want is a blurred or messy logo – or one that doesn’t portray your colors correctly. Nothing will detract from the overall message and design of your marketing materials quicker than low-quality visuals. You want the attention to be on the message you’re trying to get across instead of how your logo doesn’t look right or a photo that is out of focus. 

It’s also important to choose high-quality paper stock and finishes that align with your overall brand. High-quality materials deliver the impression of professionalism that you want to convey, and can go a long way in making that impression last. It might seem like a small thing, but recipients of those top-notch materials will remember the quality of the item. Budget is always a concern with any project, but using the best materials will have a lasting impact on those that come into contact with them – and it’s a great way to set yourself apart from your competition.

Maintain Brand Consistency

Along the same lines of using high-quality images and other materials, it’s important to choose print materials that best reflect your brand identity. Colors, fonts, and even imagery has to remain consistent throughout the process to convey a look of professionalism and dedication to your brand. There are multiple reasons why business owners choose the colors for their logo and other branding, and consistency with those colors across multiple platforms will reinforce that brand recognition and build credibility.

Most importantly, you want your company’s logo to be sharp with the proper coloration. This is the centerpiece of your branding, so it has to be right. Making sure you are getting consistent color of your logo across multiple forms is crucial to maintaining your brand. When your logo looks the same on a banner as it does on a tri-fold pamphlet, it makes it easier for consumers to remember your message. That is the first step in building a relationship with consumers through your brand, as all consumers want consistency from the vendors they use. 

Create a Focal Point for Your Message

No matter what type of marketing materials you’re using, a great way to capture and hold your audience’s attention is with a focal point that draws the viewer in. This should serve as the main focus of your design. While the importance of logos has already been mentioned, this doesn’t have to be the focal point for every piece of marketing material. There are multiple things that can keep the viewer of the marketing material invested, from a compelling image to a bold headline or something else that’s prominent. 

This is where keeping the overall design uncluttered comes into play, as well. By utilizing a focal point, it will draw in the viewer quickly without distractions. Using that specific focal point to guide the viewer through the rest of the material is a great way to not only capture their attention, but hold it so they can digest the entire message of the piece. Strategic use of this focal point can also make the item more memorable, which is one of the main goals of your marketing materials in the first place. 

Craft Compelling Content

Your marketing materials are likely designed with one primary goal in mind: Generating more business. If the copy on your marketing materials is boring or overflowing with industry terms, you may lose your target audience quickly. Marketing content needs to speak directly your audiences needs and pain points, and how you’ll be able to address those needs. Don’t get bogged down in telling them all of the bells and whistles of a particular service or product, but rather inform your audience on the benefits. 

One of the best things you can do with your marketing content is to simply communicate how your offering solves their problem or fulfills a need. Since the main directive is to drive business, don’t shy away from persuasive language to motivate your audience. Crafting persuasive calls to action will compel the readers to respond more quickly. Keep the information relevant and valuable without getting into too much minutiae about your process. 

Use Fonts that are Easy to Read

Putting together the right content is one thing, but making sure that content is easy to read is just as important. A lot of businesses may use cursive fonts or other fonts with unique looks. These are fine to use in some instances, but not with your marketing materials. You want to use fonts that are easy to read when they’re printed or bumped up to larger sizes for large-format printing projects like posters and banners. If something like a cursive or flowing font is the main font of your branding, it’s certainly usable, but using a secondary font that’s easier to read for vital pieces of content is recommended. 

It’s also important to avoid using too many fonts, because it can clutter your overall image. A lot of different fonts can also create visual confusion, distracting from the focal point and/or other images within the materials. Again, consistency is key, so sticking to two or three complementary fonts will help create consistency and reduce confusion across all of your platforms. You want to get your message across, and the easiest way to accomplish that is by making sure your audience can read that message.

There are a variety of ways to enhance the design of your print marketing materials. Even in the digital age, the tangible aspect of printed materials can still make a heavy impact for your business and your brand. As a business, your first impression is crucial, and these marketing materials wind up being just that for many consumers. For more information – and even more tips – on how to maximize your print marketing materials, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

How Can Businesses Achieve Consistency & Quality in Commercial Printing?

Your image is one of the most important things your business has, and you don’t want any inconsistency when presenting that image. The best way to do this is by creating a consistent message, and that means all of your printed commercial materials need to come across with your proper branding and colors – every time. Working with a reputable Denver printing company will go a long way in creating that consistency. 

However, you need more than just consistency, as quality can show your customers that you’re going the extra mile for them. Sending the same message of quality every time will help you achieve this, but it’s not as simple as just calling up a commercial printer. There are a number of things that you need to look for when trying to establish a consistent message with your commercial printing. 

Work With the Right Equipment

When searching for the best quality and consistency, it’s important to seek out a printing company that has invested in top-notch, high-quality printing equipment. This isn’t just the printers that are used to create the documents, but also the ink, paper, and other materials that go into the process. High-quality equipment will go a long way in creating the best final output, and that starts with the right equipment. 

The equipment has to be regularly maintained to ensure consistent results, and the right commercial printer will stay up to date by creating and utilizing standardized color profiles. This ensures accurate and predictable color reproduction. There are also other color management tools to maintain consistency, as predictable color reproduction will be vital if you’re printing numerous materials. Knowing you’re working with a printer that uses the best equipment is a great first step in getting the best result for your project.

Quality Control & Proofing Process

Nobody wants a mistake on their final product of any commercial printing project. Working with a commercial printer to implement a thorough proofing process should catch any potential mistakes before you get to the final print. Talk to the commercial printer about providing digital proofs or test prints to get an idea of what the final product will look like. This will help the commercial printer understand your expectations and requirements for each job. 

This is an important process particularly to ensure the colors are right. A lot of branding and imagery for businesses comes down to their official colors, as you don’t want your logo to look off or discolored, for example. This step in quality control will enable the consistency in every piece to come through in adherence to your standards, as well as the printer’s. 

Check Out Samples & Portfolios

Most commercial printers will have samples of previous work or will have built out portfolios that shows the scope of the projects they’ve done for other clients. Commercial printers should be forthcoming with these types of examples, as you want to work with a commercial printer that is proud of their work. Evaluate multiple samples to get a good feeling for the printer’s consistency and quality. 

Every project may be different, but looking at a wide range of examples will show you how consistently the printer creates consistent results. If possible, you also might be able to check out the printer’s facility to get a firsthand look at their operations. A reputable printer should be ready to give insights to their processes and overall commitment to quality. 

Establish Your Standards

If you’re looking for printed items for your business, it is also a good idea to establish your own specifications for a project. By detailing what your requirements will be – such as color requirements, finishing options, or other specifics – it’ll be easier for the commercial printer to understand your vision. This will also help establish a stronger working relationship with the printing company, as it will leave out a lot of the questions they may have, leading to a better understanding of your expectations.

Don’t be afraid to come up with a style guide for your own brand’s standards. This will leave no surprises for the printer, as they’ll understand your colors, fonts, and other must-haves when developing your project for printing. This can also help out in the quality control and proofing process, since there won’t be any question as to the necessities for your projects. The clearer the specifications, the easier it will be for the commercial printer to realize your vision. 

Communication is Crucial

Perhaps the most important aspect of getting the right quality for your printed materials is working with a commercial printer that is open and able to communicate regularly. Partnering with a reliable and reputable Denver printing company that has a track record of producing consistent results is vital. They should be able to show you examples of their work and provide you with testimonials from pleased clients. Communicating clearly with the printer will allow you to convey exactly what you’re looking for from the projects, setting the expectations for each job. 

The printer should be receptive every step of the way, keeping you informed on how the progress of your project. Communication is the most important step in customer service, especially with projects that require the attention to detail that many commercial printing projects require. Constant feedback will not only allow for the best result in the completed project, but it will also help the printer understand what needs to be done with other projects moving forward.

Remember, even though it’s your printing project, the commercial printer wants it to come out just as perfect as you do. Detailed communication from both sides can go a long way in establishing your wants and needs for the project. Working with a printer that provides exceptional customer service will result in quality communication, potentially leading to a relationship for future projects, as well. For more information on how to get the most out of your commercial printing project, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

Best Practices for Preparing Artwork for Commercial Printing

Commercial printing projects are a great way to market your brand. However, using artwork in these commercial projects can get tricky, as you want the artwork to maintain its original integrity through reproduction. The best way to accomplish this is to use a trusted Denver commercial printer that has a reputation for top quality work, and a regular process that backs it up. 

There’s an attention to detail required when preparing artwork for commercial printing to make sure the final product meets the standards of the customer. The commercial printer should also have their own high standards in place, and that comes along with the best practices of getting the project to emerge exactly as the customer intended. 

Color is Crucial

When printing large projects, one of the most important things is making sure the color comes through properly. No one wants colors to look muted when they’re supposed to be bright. Colors are also critical in logos and other branding, so they have to be exact. Using the CMYK color mode for full-color printing is crucial, instead of the RGB mode (which is used for digital displays).

The right resolution is also vital for large projects, and images should have a resolution of at least 300 dots per inch (DPI). This will make the images crisp and clear, and keep away from distracting pixilation of images. The overprint settings are also important to getting the right colors. This is the process of printing colors on top of each other, and maintaining the right settings will make sure the colors come through properly. 

Get Graphics in Order

One of the most important things is making sure your document size matches the final print size. This includes double checking the dimensions and resolution. If you’re using custom fonts, embed them within your document to make sure they display correctly. His is especially important when saving your files. If possible, use a print-ready format. PDFs are widely used, as they will maintain image quality and properly embed fonts. 

Whenever possible, use vector graphics for logos and text to make sure the sharpness is maintained. Vector graphics can also deliver better clarity regardless of size. It’s also important to collaborate with the printer to understand the specific process that will be used. Different processes may have different color profiles or resolution requirements, and working together with the printer will give you all of the information you need to get them the right images and files to make the project a success. 

One of the most important things throughout this process is communication, and working with a printer focused on customer service is crucial. They’ll be able to get all the right information to you, and walk you through the entire process. Be sure to get a proof of the project before the final product is created, so that you can get the peace of mind of knowing that it’s going to come out the way you want it. For more information, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

Where to Get Large Custom Banners Printed for Events

Putting on an event takes a lot of work. Marketing before the event is crucial, but sometimes you need a big custom banner to promote your event on the day everything comes together. These large banners make a great first impression, so it’s important that they are easy to read, colorful, and make a splash at your event. 

When searching for custom large banners for your events, it’s important to find a trusted source to create the product. Large format printing in Denver should be made professionally by an experienced printer that focuses on your needs. Every banner needs to be unique, and that means finding a printer that gives the proper attention to the individual needs of your project. 

Things to Look for in Your Printer

Creating a large custom banner has to be done right. One of the most important things you want in your banner is the quality of printing. That means finding a large format printer with experience. Check out the company’s portfolio or samples of their previous work. Signs of high quality should be apparent by checking out the print’s vibrant colors and high resolution. It’s also a good idea to ask about the printers and types of materials they use to make sure your banner will be made up to your standards. 

The printing company should have a proven track record of making large formant prints, and it’s even better if that experience extends into making banners for events. Check out their reputation by investigating reviews and testimonials from previous clients. A top quality printer may also be able to provide you with references from clients that needed similar projects printed. 

Communication is Key

Having proper communication is imperative when creating a large format printing project. Staying in constant communication will ensure that the printer can handle the size and other format requirements for your banner. They’ll also be able to communicate customization options, to make your banner to your exact specifications. This will also give insight into the printer’s technical expertise. 

Clear communication should be present throughout the entire process, and choosing a printer that communicates effectively shows they’re open to collaboration. This process has to include input from both sides. Your banner needs to be created to certain specifications and expectations, and the printer should be able to offer different options and opinions to help make it a successful project. This improves the overall value of the project, as customer service and communication go a long way in making your unique idea a reality. 

There’s more that goes into creating a great custom banner than just the right materials. Working with the right printing partner can sometimes turn your project into something bigger and better than you dreamed of. Finding the right printing partner is a crucial decision, so make sure you’re comfortable with the large format printer you’re working with. For more information on how to get the most out of your custom printed banner, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

How Can I Request a Quote or Estimate from a Printing Company?

Printing projects come in all shapes and sizes, and no two are alike. Working with a dynamic Denver printing company will usually get you lined up for the best results, but it’s also important to do your homework. Finding the right mix of experience, craftsmanship, creativity, customer service and budget can be tricky, but you want to make sure you’re getting the right experience, as well. 

When comparing prices between printing companies, it’s important to remember that not all printing companies are created equal, and sometimes the cheapest quote will get you the cheapest result. However, that shouldn’t stop you from looking for the best combination for your particular project. Getting quotes or estimates from printing companies is part of the deal, and there are a few things to consider to make sure all your bases are covered. 

Organize Your Project Details 

It’s important that you know all the details of your printing project before finding estimates. This means the type of printing you’re looking for, the number of items that need to be printed, paper type, color, size, and if you need finishing options like lamination. Having all of these specific requirements detailed early will prevent the surprise of added costs popping up later. Providing a brief description of your project with any special instructions will also go a long way in giving the printer the necessary information. 

If you have any digital files for your project, share them with the printing company. This will give the printer insight into the complexity of your project and help with a more accurate quote. This will also help you clearly communicate the details of your project to the printing company, allowing them to cover all the relevant aspects. This will also offer good information to the printer in regards to the quality of the prints, as well as color options and other details. 

Communicate Questions or Concerns

Clearly communicating the details of your project – from the types of printing to your timeline – will make sure everything gets covered. The more information, the better. Customer service is a major differentiator between printing companies, and they should be able to answer all of your questions and give you other insight into your project. Asking questions and offering insights should be welcomed by the printer, and give you an indication as to how it will be to work with them throughout your project. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations about aspects of the printing process. The printing company will likely be able to suggest options that will suit your particular needs and budget. Ask about the estimated turnaround time – especially if you have a specific deadline – and clarify the terms and conditions of your payment. The printer should be forthcoming with all of this information, and there shouldn’t be any questions surrounding the estimate. 

It’s important to know what to expect with your printing project, and to have the customer service to communicate with you throughout the creation of your printed items. For more information on printing projects and how important customer service is during the process of getting quotes or estimates, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

Can Large Format Prints Be Used for Both Indoor and Outdoor Applications?

When done the right way, large format prints can be a great way to produce a big image that can turn a lot of heads. From canvas wraps and posters to full-fledged banners that are several feet and length, there’s a lot of things large format printing can do. Getting large format printing in Denver done properly is key, as there is much more to it than slapping an image on a big piece of vinyl. 

Service and expertise are key to getting the right materials for your documents or images into large format, and that’s especially important if you’re item is going to be exposed to the elements. Large format prints can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications, but that’s when it’s important to make sure you’re getting it completed the right way. 

outdoor fair image

Indoor Applications for Large Format Prints

When thinking of posters or images on canvas, many people are looking at getting those in large format to hang on walls indoors. When working to create something for inside, you can print on a multitude of materials like paper, poster board, canvas, or other fabrics. Since they’ll likely remain indoors, they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight or other harsh elements, and don’t require the same durability as outdoor prints. 

There are endless possibilities for large format prints to be used indoors. From the previously mentioned posters and canvas images, to things like wall graphics or other art reproductions. Large format printing is also fantastic for creating stunning images for trade show displays or other events. Retractable stand-up banners have become increasingly popular (and are easy to transport), and the larger, horizontal banners can also make a splash indoors. 

Outdoor Applications for Large Format Prints

The most important thing for using large format printing on items that will be outdoors is durability. Be sure to consider things like wind, rain, and the fluctuations in temperature. Common outdoor examples of large format prints outside are things like signs for an event, large banners for a grand opening or other event, and larger signage when things like posters won’t cut it. Every application might pose different threats, so it’s crucial to work with a professional to make sure you’re getting the best items for your budget. 

Outdoor large format prints are generally made out of vinyl, mesh, durable fabric and other more durable materials. Larger banners can be made with perforations to help them stand up better in the wind, and there are also ways to make the items more resistant to weather’s other harsh elements. Laminating can also add another layer of protection, but that also depends on what the product will be exposed to. 

Whether you need large format printing for indoors or outdoors, you should discuss the project with a professional printer before making any decisions. You want these prints to hold up under any circumstance, so getting the best material and the right quality will go a long way in making the print a success. For more information, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Printing Company?

If you’re going to a printing company with a project, there are a few things you’re probably expecting. You want it done right, for the right price, on your schedule. When it comes to finding the right Denver printing company, not all of them are created equal. Some specialize in particular items, while others pride themselves on being a one-stop shop for all of your needs. 

Price and budget is always a factor, but there are a number of other things that should play into your decision before you start worrying about the price point. Having a number of important factors for your project will show the printer you’re prepared, and that you’re serious about the project. You want to find a printer that mirrors that seriousness, and is dedicated to your project from start to finish. 

Quality Should Be First & Foremost

When searching for a printing company, you obviously want to see some examples of the quality of their work. Ask for samples of items they’ve previously done that are similar to your project. This will give you a good idea of the print quality you’ll receive. Whether you need images or text printed, you want high-resolution to make sure everything is crisp and clear. It’s also important to make sure they can match your colors accurately to specifications. 

High-quality work is only one aspect, however. Making sharp prints is one thing, but you also want to have quality in the customer service. Choosing a printing company that has a reputation of respecting your schedule and all of the particulars of your project is paramount in crafting a successful experience. Don’t be afraid to check out online reviews or seek out other client testimonials to find out how consistently they go above and beyond for their clients. That’s the best indication of how you will likely be treated throughout the process. 

Versatility, Technology & Turnaround Time

Most printers can do a variety of different things, so ask about the types of printing they do. You might have one thing in mind, but an experienced printer might have a better option for you. If you’re looking for something to be duplicated on a large scale for a professional engagement, ask if they do finishing services. This can include things like lamination, binding printed materials, or even embossing or foil stamping. 

Many people don’t think about the equipment the printer uses, but it’s worth it to see how modern their printers are. If your project requires newer printing technologies, ask if they’ll be able to handle it. Another crucial item to ask about is how long the process will take. Make sure to get clear and concise information about the production time it will take to produce the products, and how soon they’ll be delivered. 

There are a lot of things to consider when using a printing company, but almost all of them boil down to simple communication. Customer service will be uncovered by how quickly they answer your questions or address your concerns, and there should be a support system to help throughout the entire process. For more information, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

What Materials Can be Used for Large Format Printing?

Large format printing is a beneficial tool for businesses because it allows them to display messages and graphics bigger and better. Regardless of your need for a large banner or a floor sign, your message will be seen thanks to large format printing.

What Is Large Format Printing?

Large format printing is any printing job done on large sheets of paper or other materials. Typically, these jobs are too big to be done on normal commercial printing presses. They necessitate specific tools to give you an enlarged printing space.

Graphic-heavy projects and printing projects that must be seen from a distance are excellent candidates for large format printing. Popular large format print products are canvas wraps, posters, banners, and window graphics.  

Typical Large Format Printing Materials

The first step in a large format printing project is choosing the surface. Here are typical large format printing materials: 

  • Canvas
  • Vinyl 
  • Plastics
  • Cloth
  • Coated or uncoated paper
  • Foams
  • PVC
  • Metals
  • Wood

Typical Large Format Printing Products

Here are typical large format printing products:

  • Business signs
  • Posters
  • Canvas wraps
  • Window graphics
  • Banners (indoor and outdoor)
  • Wall and floor graphics

Advantages of Large Format Printing

Regardless of your business or service, large format printing is a great way to get your message across to your community and make a lasting impression. Whether it's an industrial complex, shopping mall, retail store, or office building, there are numerous settings in which large format printing makes a significant impact. Since the material and size are customizable, large format printing fits any needs and budget. 

Considerations for Large Format Printing

There are a few things to consider before requesting a large format printing job. A business that specializes in large format printing in Denver will be able to provide some assistance on the matter. 

When you begin to plan your large format printing project, you’ll need to think about how you want the final product to be seen. For example, if you are creating a sign for a trade show, the product is probably going to be viewed up close by attendees. In this situation, you may want to enhance the dots per inch (DPI) as much as possible. Likewise, if your finished product is going to be a banner, then the target audience will be viewing it from a great distance. Therefore, you need to use lower dots per inch. 

High-Quality Large Format Printing in Denver

For over 50 years, we have been serving Denver, CO and the surrounding areas with high-quality large format printing. We've lasted this long in the printing industry because our service is based on our core values of integrity, affordability, and excellence. Our team works diligently to give our customers the best large format printing product possible within the deadline they need it. Contact us to get started on your next printing project.

Do printing companies help with graphic design?

Printing companies have long been used to implement your branding into eye-catching brochures, pamphlets, as well as banners and signs. However, their expertise doesn’t stop there. For those still trying to establish their brand, a trusted Denver printing company can help you establish and fine tune your branding by offering help with graphic design and other services. 

Many business owners don’t necessarily have the design skills to create print-ready artwork themselves. From advice on adjusting colors and resolution, to creating visually appealing logos and designs, many printing companies can help establish your branding from start to finish. 

Many printing companies have their own in-house graphic designers – or partnerships with outside design professionals – that can help their clients develop visually appealing designs for print materials. Whether it’s the small stuff like designing a business card to designing the layout of a brochure to coming up with a new logo for your business, these designers can do it. They’ll work with you to create a new or updated design that suits your needs and branding. 

Even if you have your own design, the printing company’s designers can perform a review of the artwork to make sure it meets all of the technical requirements for printing. By adjusting colors, dimensions, and other elements, they can make sure that your design will translate well onto the final printed product. Printing companies will also provide you with proofs of your design before any prints are finalized. This allows for your own approval before anything moves forward, correcting any mistakes and making sure it meets your expectations. 

Take Advantage of Technology

Branding needs to go to a number of different places in today’s fast-paced world. Billboards and banners are still around, but your logos and other images have to get across multiple platforms including social media and your website. Consistency is key with branding, and printing companies can help manage your color profiles to make sure that the colors of your design remain consistent no matter where they’re displayed. 

Printers can also use their software to format your artwork correctly to meet the specifications when creating printed materials, reducing the risk of errors with margins, bleeds, and other technical details during the printing process. They can also put your images into vector format, which helps make low-resolution images look crisp and clear – even when they need to be printed at a larger size. Scaling your logo and branding is crucial, especially when splashing it across multiple platforms. These expert designers can take the stress out of this process, so you know it’s going to look the same everywhere. 

Printing companies that offer help with graphic design can be a big benefit during any branding process. They’ll make sure you’re getting the most out of your printed products, and the branding across all platforms. For more information on how this may help your business, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

How to Choose the Right Paper Type and Weight for Your Printing Project

When you have a printing job, you might want it to be as simple as giving your file to the printing professional and getting the work done.

But then you must answer a question that’s not so simple: what type of paper do you want your job printed on?

If you’re confused about which paper is best for your printing project, you’re not alone. Numerous individuals are uncertain about their paper choice when asked the question. Professionals in the printing industry believe the best approach to helping people is to give them all the info they need to make an informed decision about their jobs.

It can be difficult to know all the various paper types and weights for printing. Possessing some knowledge of the common paper types can help you know why one type and weight of paper is better than another one. Check out these tips on how to select the correct type of paper for your printing project.

Pounds

When it comes to pounds, the word essentially means how much paper weighs. The thicker the paper stock is, the bigger the weight is going to be. For instance, bond paper weighs approximately 20 to 80 pounds. Heavier card stock weighs around 50 and 140 pounds. Paper weight is calculated not by an individual sheet, but by a ream which is typically 500 sheets.

Points

Points rate the thickness of the paper rather than the weight, which don’t always match directly to each other. Using points to establish paper thickness is more scientific, than using instruments to calculate the thickness. 

The greater the point value, the thicker the paper. While this might not seem important when measuring up numbers to numbers, it becomes very apparent in the completed printed product.

Bond Paper Types for Print Jobs

Lightweight Bond Paper

Lightweight bond paper is a budget-friendly, versatile option for everyday printing needs. It’s widely used for office printers and copiers, making it an excellent choice for printing faxes and emails, as well as making copies without having to spend a lot of money.

Creating stationery and letterhead is another common use for lighter-weight bond paper. Additionally, lightweight bond paper works well in high-speed copiers, delivering clear, neat copies even at a rapid speed.

Mid-Weight Bond Paper

Mid-weight bond paper is a multipurpose solution for an assortment of printing needs, serving as an excellent choice for creative and office usage.

This paper type provides the perfect balance of professionalism and durability. It’s best for:

  • Double-sided reports
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Legal documents

Mid-weight bond paper is an essential part of any workplace.

Best Printing Company in Denver

Well-known as the best Denver commercial printer company, our family-owned business can help you promote and market your brand whether you need business cards, store signage, booklets, brochures, or any other commercial business product. Contact us today and let’s discuss your next print job.