Catalogs come in a variety of sizes and styles. The choice is yours. You may make this decision based on creative ideas, or you may consider the cost effectiveness of each choice. Here are a few tips on catalog printing and mailing to help make your choice easier as well as to make the process go a bit smoother.
Stick to Standard Sizes
Printers run most efficiently with a 32 page web press paper roll. Multiples of 16 are also cost effective. You will save time and money by going with a standard number of pages. In fact, the most cost effective is the standard 32 page 8-3/8″ x 10-7/8″ size.
Order Catalogs with Plenty of Time to Spare
Scheduling catalog printing is a crucial part of the job. Web presses often run 24 hours a day. Your catalogs must secure a place in the lineup if they will be ready to mail in time for your deadline. Send your mailing list a week before your mailing date so that postage can be calculated and the postage paid 2 days prior to ship date.
Make Sure Your Color is Accurate
Check your computer screen to make sure that the color you see is the color you get. Have your graphic design program and computer screen calibrated or invest in a printed color swatch so that you can be sure of the color quality you are ordering.
Check the Size of Your Template
Check each template to make sure that your background goes all the way to the edge, known as full bleed. You will also want to make sure that none of your text goes off the page. Good catalog printing stems from good templates.
Choose the Paper that Works the Best for You
A light weight 70 lb matte or 80 lb gloss will be durable and inexpensive, while the 100 lb paper will be a sturdier and more professional paper choice but also more expensive. It is easier to hold and will last even longer then lighter weight papers.
Proofread the Entire Catalog
Before investing in printing your catalog, check each and every page. There are so many pictures and text that mistake are sure to happen. Looking for mistakes will save you time and money in the long run. It is better to redo one or two templates than 10,000 copies of your catalog.
Catalog Printing and Mailing Tips
Cool Sites
Recent Comments