Friendly Tips

There are a number of choices to make when printing. Knowing the answers to some of these questions ahead of time is helpful. Consider the following options.

Economy

Let us know your budget. We can suggest competitively-priced, common-sense options that provide you with quality printing you can afford.

Standards

Knowing your required size helps. We offer several standard sizes:

Tabloid (11in. by 17in.)
Legal (8.5in. by 14in.)
Letter (8.5in. by 11in.)
Special (5.5in. by 4.25in.) (5.5in. by 8.5in.)
Other sizes available

Stock

Consider the stock you need. There are several types. Some examples are:

• Coated on one or both sides
• Gloss and matt finish
• Coloured or various shades of white
• Text or cover weight

Weight

Paper comes in a variety of weights, from 50 to 100 pounds. The 'basis weight' is figured by weighing one ream (500 sheets) of paper in a particular paper's standard or 'parent' size. Cover weights are used for folders and business cards while text weights are used for letterhead, flyers and sometimes brochures.

Prepress Basics

First and foremost be compatible; be sure that the programs and fonts you are using will work for your printer or service bureau. Do not be afraid to contact your printer if you are not sure about a specific aspects of building an electronic file.

Create the digital document the size you expect it to be when cut down and do not forget the bleeds, if applicable.