Printing Tips and Tricks

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You have questions?

Our team has been in the printing industry for a combined 40 years; so if you have questions, we will have answers.
In this section of our website you’ll find the most common tips, tricks and information we give our clients to help the printing process go as smoothly as possible.

Setting up your files

Preparing files for print involves several key steps to ensure that the final printed product looks as expected. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing your files properly before sending them to the printer

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Which Color Mode Should I Pick?

CMYK and PMS and RGB are three color models used in different contexts: CMYK and PMS are for print, while RGB is for digital displays Click the button for a detailed breakdown of each:

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Paper Types

The difference between coated and uncoated papers primarily lies in their surface treatment and how it affects printing quality, appearance, texture, and performance.

Coated Paper

  • Surface Treatment: Coated paper has a smooth, glossy, or matte finish due to a coating of materials like clay or calcium carbonate. This coating fills the paper’s pores and creates a more uniform surface.
  • Finish Options: Coated paper comes in different finishes:
    • Glossy: Shiny, reflective surface, often used for high-quality image reproduction (magazines, photo books, brochures).
    • Matte: Smooth but non-reflective finish, giving a softer, elegant look.
    • Silk/Satin: A finish between glossy and matte, providing a smooth texture with a slight sheen.
  • Print Quality: Coated paper produces sharper, more vibrant prints, especially for images with high detail and color saturation. Ink sits on the surface, allowing for better color reproduction.
  • Durability: Coated papers are less absorbent, so ink dries more slowly and can be more prone to smudging if not handled carefully. However, they tend to resist dirt and moisture better than uncoated papers.

Uncoated Paper

  • Surface Treatment: Uncoated paper does not have any surface coating. It maintains a more natural, rough texture that is porous, which means ink is absorbed more readily by the paper fibers.
  • Finish: The finish of uncoated paper is typically more textured or fibrous, and it can come in various degrees of roughness.
  • Print Quality: Prints on uncoated paper tend to be less sharp and more subdued because the ink soaks into the paper rather than sitting on top. This can be desirable for certain projects, such as letterpress printing, invitations, or eco-friendly designs.
  • Feel and Appearance: Uncoated paper has a tactile, matte feel that many consider more organic or traditional. The colors tend to be softer, and images may appear less vivid compared to coated paper.
  • Durability: Uncoated paper is more absorbent, meaning ink dries faster, but it can also be more prone to fading or discoloration over time.

Ultimately, the choice between coated and uncoated paper depends on the specific needs of your printing project. If you’re looking for a high-gloss, sharp result for photos and vibrant colors, coated paper is ideal. If you prefer a more natural, textured finish and are working with mostly text or need a more traditional feel, uncoated paper might be a better fit.

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