The Ultimate Guide for Professional Printing: A Cheat Sheet!

Got poor results with your last print project?

Well, not to point any fingers, but the problem could be in the file. A lot could go wrong from your monitor to the printer if the file resolution is not the most appropriate one to your print size.

Whenever you are ordering extreme custom prints, sending the right file is the key to a great result. We decided to make a cheat sheet for ideal printing results.

What type of printing services do printing companies offer?

Printing companies typically offer a range of professional digital printing services including digital printing, offset printing, large format printing, and specialty printing such as screen printing or flexography. They may also provide additional services like graphic design, binding, finishing, and mailing services.

Take a look at the following tips before sending the art to your next digital and offset printing project:

1. File Format: check which file formats are accepted by your printer. Sending an unsupported file will lead to delays as they will require for you to resend it. JPEG, PNG and PDF are the most common exchangeable formats. However, other file formats are accepted by most printers. Usually Photoshop, InDesign, Quark and Illustrator will be available, if you don't want changes made to your file export and keep the backup at hand in case your printer requires it.
2. Image Resolution: not to be confused by image size. Remember that an image might look great on screen, but if the resolution is too low, it won’t look good in print. The standard printing resolution varies from 150dpi to 300dpi. Consult your printer for their requirements.
3. Trim Size: when your files are meant to be cut, as most print advertising does (flyers, business cards, etc.), it is really important to consider the bleed area and trim size. Allow enough blank space between your design and the cutting area so you won’t lose information afterwards.
4. Color System: some files are created with the RGB color system. This will not work for a printer. Send the file on a CMYK format or Pantone colors if it’s the case. Have in mind that Pantone or spot colors are printed separately and have different costs. If you did not intend to include a spot color in the design, remove it before sending it to print. Also remember that while spot colors have no variation from web to print, CMYK does. So sample your printed color before making large orders.
5. Print size: research the available printing sizes before sending the file and ordering professional printing. A file can look great on a Keychain, but it might be too small for a custom T-shirt. Take your time to decide what is the exact product you want, if you are not familiar with the terms, you could end up ordering posters when all you wanted were flyers.
6. Cutting, scoring and folding: once your file has been printed, it is time to shape it up. Professional printers will do it for you but you need to consider your design size and distribution before. Trimming and folding lines need to be very clear so you won't end up with out of place text or incomplete information on any side. While designing a brochure or folded card, define your spaces and text boxes. Leave enough space in between for folding purposes. Require online proof and if possible test print at home just to check information distribution on paper.At 4over4, we try to make this process easy and effective - you can contact us for any custom design templates for your file designs and printings.

Conclusion

Starting a printing business can be a lucrative venture for small business owners. With the right printing equipment, a solid business plan, and a focus on a specific niche like t-shirts or apparel, you can attract potential customers and grow your business from home. The 2024 guide outlines the steps you need to take to start a t-shirt printing business, including investing in high-quality digital printing equipment and using design software like shopify to create custom designs. By utilizing digital marketing strategies and starting an online print store, you can reach a broader target audience and break into the competitive printing market.

When considering which printing service is best to use, it's important to research different printing techniques and invest in the tools you need to produce quality printing. Whether you're interested in sign printing or starting a t-shirt printing business, having the right printing equipment can make all the difference in your business growth. By offering personalized print solutions and consistently delivering high-quality products, you can attract business owners looking for reliable printing services. Use these printing business guide as a checklist for your next printing project and avoid any final product disappointment. Are there any other steps you take before printing? Or is there any doubt you’d like to ask about? Leave us a comment a let us know!

FAQs

Q: How can I start a printing business?

A: To start a printing business, you will need a business plan, printing equipment such as a printing machine, and design software. It's also important to research your target market and create a strong online presence.

Q: What are the key steps to starting a t-shirt printing business?

A: The key steps to starting a t-shirt printing business include identifying your target audience, sourcing quality t-shirts and printing materials, creating unique designs, and marketing your business effectively.

Q: How do I set up an online print business?

A: To set up an online print business, you need to choose an ecommerce platform, create a user-friendly website, showcase your print products, and implement online payment solutions.

Q: What type of printing machine do I need for a small print shop?

A: For a small print shop, it is recommended to invest in a versatile and cost-effective printing machine that can handle various printing tasks efficiently.

Q: What are the advantages of starting a home-based printing business?

A: Starting a home-based printing business offers benefits such as low overhead costs, flexible working hours, and the convenience of working from home.

Q: How important is a business plan to the success of a printing business?

A: A well-thought-out business plan is crucial to the success of a printing business as it outlines your business goals, target market, financial projections, and marketing strategies.

Q: How can social media platforms help promote my printing business?

A: Social media platforms can help promote your printing business by reaching a wide audience, showcasing your print products, engaging with customers, and driving traffic to your online store.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when starting a printing business?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when starting a printing business include not researching the market, underestimating startup costs, neglecting customer service, and not having a solid business plan in place.