What is the difference between Offset and Digital Printing?

How do I know whether Digital or Offset printing is right for my project?

What is the Pantone matching system?

What's the difference between "Spot Colors" and "Four  Color Process"?

Is white considered a printing color?

Why do the printed colors look different from the colors on my screen?

At what resolution should I save my photos and graphics?

What type of files do you accept?

What is a PDF proof?

How do I prepare my text for the printer?

Once I submit the documents, how long will it take to finish my job?

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OFFSET AND DIGITAL PRINTING?

Offset printing is a widely used printing technique where the inked image is transferred (or “offset”) from a plate first to a rubber blanket, then to the printing surface. Based on the repulsion of oil and water, paper obtains ink from ink rollers, while the non-printing area attracts a film of water, keeping the nonprinting areas ink-free.

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HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER DIGITAL OR OFFSET PRINTING IS RIGHT FOR MY PROJECT?

Typically, it depends on the number of pieces you need, types of special finishes and the end use of the piece. Generally speaking, if you need more than 500 pieces printed, it becomes more cost-effective to use offset printing. If you want to individualize each piece using variable data, digital is the way to go. The fastest way to find out what’s right for you is to call us. With a few basic questions, one of our experts can point you in the right direction.

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WHAT IS THE PANTONE MATCHING SYSTEM?

The Pantone Matching System (PMS) is a color reproduction standard in which colors all across the spectrum are each identified by a unique, independent number. The use of PMS allows us to precisely match colors and maintain color consistency throughout the printing process.

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WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN “SPOT COLORS” AND “FOUR COLOR PROCESS?

Spot colors are individual colors that are specially made to match the Pantone Matching System. Four color process is a technique of printing that uses black, magenta, cyan and yellow to simulate full-color images. Also called color process printing, full color printing and process printing.

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IS WHITE CONSIDERED A PRINTING COLOR?

Not typically. Because white is the default color of paper, it is simply recognized as the absence of any ink. However, when using colored paper, white ink may be used if any text or graphic requires it.

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WHY DO THE PRINTED COLORS LOOK DIFFERENT FROM THE COLORS ON MY SCREEN?

In short, printers and monitors produce colors in different ways. Monitors use the RGB (red, green, blue) color model, which usually supports a wider spectrum of colors. Printers use the CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) color model, which can reproduce most—but not all—of the colors in the RGB color model. Depending on the equipment used, CMYK generally matches 85–90% of the colors in the RGB model. When a color is selected from the RGB model that is out of the range of the CMYK model, the application chooses what it thinks is the closest color that will match. Programs like Adobe Photoshop will allow you to choose which color will be replaced. Others may not.

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AT WHAT RESOLUTION SHOULD I SAVE MY PHOTOS AND GRAPHICS?

Resolution should be set to 300 dpi. Pictures and graphics pulled from the internet are often low resolution, typically 72 dpi or 96 dpi. Avoid these graphics, as they will appear pixilated and blocky when printed. Also note that you should save all photos in CMYK mode, not RGB mode when possible. Images saved in RGB mode may not print properly. If you are unable to save your image in CYMK mode, please let us know.

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WHAT TYPE OF FILES DO YOU ACCEPT?

We prefer print-ready PDFs. Although not preferred, we can also proof from EPS, TIFF, and JPG files. We can also work with PSD, AI, INDD, QXP, and CDR files, however there could be issues between versions, fonts, links, etc., so it is preferred you use the tools within those programs to make a print-ready PDF.

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WHAT IS A PDF PROOF?

A PDF proof allows you to review and approve your final print design from a digital file. It represents the product we will print according to your specifications. The PDF file will also include necessary bleeds (outer margins that will be trimmed) and alignment. When you receive a proof, please examine it carefully and then give us your approval to print your order.

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HOW DO I PREPARE MY TEXT FOR THE PRINTER?

Adobe PDF is the preferred text format used by most printers. It works with virtually all imagesetters, platesetters and digital output devises. Most popular file formats, including MS Word, Word Perfect, MS Publisher are easily converted to PDF. PDF is a “locked” format so there is no problem with fonts and reflow when the files are opened on different computers. PDF can be read on any PDF reader which is free at the Adobe website.

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ONCE I SUBMIT THE DOCUMENTS, HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO FINISH MY JOB?

Simple digital jobs are often completed the same day. Some jobs, however, may take several days to complete depending on their complexity and size. Our normal turnaround time is 5-7 business days. We always strive to provide an accurate estimate of time for each job we do and we’ll always work with you to find ways to complete your project when you need it.

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