Binding

Definition: Binding is the process of assembling and securing the pages of a book or booklet. Common binding methods include saddle stitching, perfect binding, and spiral binding, each offering different finishes and durability.

Bleed

Definition: Bleed is the extra area around the edges of your print document that gets trimmed off after printing. It ensures that the colour or image extends right to the edge of the page, avoiding any white borders. Typically, a 2mm bleed is recommended to account for any slight variations in cutting.  More information about print specifications.

CMYK

Definition: CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). It’s the colour model used for printing, where colours are created by layering these four inks. Unlike RGB, which is used for digital screens, CMYK provides a more accurate colour match for printed materials. More information about colour matching.

Colour Mode

Definition: Colour mode defines how colours are represented in a digital file. CMYK is used for print, while RGB is used for digital screens. Converting your design to the appropriate colour mode ensures accurate colours in the final print.  More information about colour matching.

Contrast

Definition: Contrast is the difference between the darkest and lightest parts of an image or text. Good contrast enhances readability and visual appeal, especially in print. Ensure there is sufficient contrast between text and background for clear readability. More information about print specifications.

Crop Marks

Definition: Crop marks are lines printed on the edges of your document to indicate where it should be trimmed. They assist with the cutting process to ensure the final print matches the intended size and layout.

DPI (Dots Per Inch)

Definition: DPI measures the resolution of an image, showing how many dots of ink are used per inch. For sharp and clear print jobs, aim for a minimum of 300 DPI. Lower DPI can result in pixelated or blurry prints.

Die Cut

Definition: Die cutting is a process that uses a custom-made die to cut paper or cardstock into specific shapes. This technique allows for unique designs, such as custom business cards or promotional materials.

Embossing

Definition: Embossing creates a raised design or text on paper by pressing it into the surface. It adds a tactile and visual element to print materials, often used for business cards, stationery, and invitations.

File Types

Definition: For printing, file formats like PDF, TIFF, or EPS are preferred due to their high resolution and compatibility with professional design software. Avoid formats such as MS Word, MS Publisher, and Canva files as they may not meet print quality standards.  More information about file types.

Foil Stamping

Definition: Foil stamping involves applying a metallic or coloured foil to a printed surface using heat and pressure. This technique adds a shiny, reflective quality to text or graphics, commonly used for high-impact design elements.

Fonts

Definition: Fonts are the different styles of text used in your design. To ensure your text appears as intended in print, embed all fonts within your file before submission. This prevents font substitutions and maintains consistency across different devices.  More information about fonts.

GSM (Grams per Square Meter)

Definition: GSM measures the weight and thickness of paper. It indicates how many grams a square metre of paper weighs, affecting the quality and durability of printed materials. Higher GSM values usually correspond to thicker and more durable paper.  More information about what is GSM.

High-Resolution

Definition: High-resolution refers to images or files with a high number of pixels per inch (ppi), ensuring detailed and sharp prints. For quality printing, images should generally have a resolution of at least 300 ppi.

Image Resolution

Definition: Image resolution refers to the amount of detail an image holds, measured in pixels per inch (ppi). Higher resolution images are clearer and more detailed, which is crucial for high-quality prints.

Layout

Definition: Layout refers to the arrangement of text, images, and other elements on a page. A well-designed layout ensures that content is visually appealing and easy to read, and it adheres to the specifications of the print project.

Layout Grid

Definition: A layout grid is a structure of horizontal and vertical lines used to organise content on a page. It helps designers create a balanced and consistent layout, making the design visually appealing and easy to navigate.

Margins

Definition: Margins are the blank spaces around the edges of your print document. Adequate margins prevent important content from being cut off during the printing and trimming process. Check the margin guidelines in the spec sheet to ensure accuracy. More information about margins.

Mockup

Definition: A mockup is a visual representation of your design in a real-world context. It helps you see how the final printed product will look, whether it’s a digital or physical preview, and assists in visualising the end result before production.

Pantone Matching System (PMS)

Definition: PMS is a standardised colour matching system used to ensure consistent colour reproduction across various prints. It uses pre-mixed inks to achieve precise colours, making it ideal for brand colours and special shades. More information about colour matching.

Perforation

Definition: Perforation involves creating a series of small holes or cuts in paper to allow it to be easily torn or separated. It is commonly used in tickets, coupons, and tear-off forms.

Pre-Press

Definition: Pre-press encompasses all the steps and preparations needed before printing, such as checking files, proofing, and making adjustments. It ensures that everything is set up correctly for the final print.

Proof

Definition: A proof is a preliminary version of a print job used to check for errors and confirm that colours and design elements appear as intended. Proofs are essential for verifying print accuracy before the final run.

Printer’s Marks

Definition: Printer’s marks are additional marks and notations added to a design to assist with the printing process. These include crop marks, registration marks, and colour bars, which help ensure accuracy and alignment.

Resolution

Definition: Resolution refers to how clear an image is, measured by the number of pixels per inch (ppi) or dots per inch (dpi). For quality prints, ensure your images have at least 300 ppi to keep them sharp and detailed.

Raster Image

Definition: A raster image is a type of image made up of pixels, such as JPEG or PNG files. Raster images can lose quality when resized, so they need to be high resolution to ensure clarity in print.

Score

Definition: Scoring is the process of creating a crease or indentation in paper to facilitate folding. This technique is often used for brochures, cards, and packaging to ensure neat, precise folds.

Spot Colour

Definition: Spot colour refers to a specific colour applied using a single ink, rather than mixing CMYK inks. Spot colours are used for precise colour matching and branding to ensure consistency.

Trim Marks

Definition: Trim marks are lines printed on the edges of your document to indicate where it should be cut. They ensure that the final print is trimmed to the correct size, preventing any unwanted white space or misalignment.

Trim Size

Definition: Trim size is the final dimensions of your printed piece after it has been cut to size. Make sure your design fits within the trim size and includes the appropriate bleed and margin allowances for a clean, professional finish.

Vector Image

Definition: A vector image is made up of paths defined by mathematical equations, allowing it to be scaled infinitely without loss of quality. Vector images are ideal for logos and illustrations that need to maintain sharpness at any size. More information about file types.

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