Inside FAQs | Printing Questions

Q. What is Digital Printing?

Answer:Digital printing is a modern method of printing that involves transferring digital-based images directly onto various surfaces such as paper, fabric, plastic, or metal. Unlike traditional printing methods that require creating physical plates or screens, digital printing uses digital files, typically in formats like PDF or JPEG, to directly control the printing process.

In digital printing, the image is sent directly from a computer to the printer, which uses inkjet or laser technology to apply the ink or toner onto the printing surface. This method allows for quick turnaround times and the ability to produce small quantities of prints economically. Additionally, digital printing offers greater flexibility in customization and variable data printing, making it ideal for personalized items like business cards, brochures, banners, and labels.

All of our small quantity board books are printed on our Digital Printer in the USA.

Q. What is Offset Printing?

Answer: Offset printing is a traditional method of printing that involves transferring ink from a metal plate onto a rubber blanket, which then applies the ink onto the printing surface, usually paper. Unlike digital printing, offset printing requires the creation of physical printing plates, which are etched with the image to be printed.

In offset printing, the image to be printed is transferred onto the plates through a process involving chemical treatment and exposure to light. Each color in the image requires a separate plate. Once the plates are prepared, they are mounted onto the printing press, where the image is transferred onto the rubber blanket and then onto the paper in a series of precise steps.

Offset printing is known for its high quality and consistency, making it suitable for large-scale printing projects such as newspapers, magazines, books, and packaging materials. While it may have longer setup times compared to digital printing, offset printing is often more cost-effective for large print runs.

All mass production orders of 1000+ are printed on our offset printer. Contact us for a mass production quote.

Q. Should my files be uploaded as CMYK or RGB?

Answer:As with most printers, our machines will work best with CMYK files. We are able to print RGB, however they may not print in the color they expect or colors may be off.

To ensure that CMYK colors will print correctly, it's essential to follow a few key steps. First, make sure your design software is set to CMYK mode rather than RGB, as CMYK is the color model used for print. Then, carefully choose CMYK color values for your design elements, keeping in mind that colors may appear differently on screen compared to in print. Utilize color swatches or color guides to accurately select CMYK values that match your desired colors. Additionally, it's crucial to proof your design using a calibrated monitor.

Q. Are you uploading dark images?

Answer: When uploading dark images for printing, it's important to be aware that they may print out darker than expected due to the limitations of the printing process. To ensure that the printed result matches your intended brightness and detail, it's advisable to lighten the images before uploading them. This can be done using image editing software by adjusting the brightness, contrast, and exposure levels. By increasing the brightness and adjusting the contrast, you can help compensate for the potential darkening effect during printing, resulting in a final print that accurately reflects the details and tones of your original image. Taking this precaution can help avoid disappointment with the printed outcome and ensure that your dark images are reproduced as intended.

Q. Need a book that reads right to left?

Answer: When you are uploading your files, please upload in order they need to be read, (Spread 1 is Cover, Spread 2 is interior spread 1, Spread 3 is interior spread 2, etc.) but rotate your spreads 180 degrees (This will make the spreads appear upside down on our interface). Although this will appear visually incorrect, this method will ensure our printer prints the pages in the correct order and format. Please contact us if you have any questions.

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