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Best Practices for Preparing Artwork for Commercial Printing

Commercial printing projects are a great way to market your brand. However, using artwork in these commercial projects can get tricky, as you want the artwork to maintain its original integrity through reproduction. The best way to accomplish this is to use a trusted Denver commercial printer that has a reputation for top quality work, and a regular process that backs it up. 

There’s an attention to detail required when preparing artwork for commercial printing to make sure the final product meets the standards of the customer. The commercial printer should also have their own high standards in place, and that comes along with the best practices of getting the project to emerge exactly as the customer intended. 

Color is Crucial

When printing large projects, one of the most important things is making sure the color comes through properly. No one wants colors to look muted when they’re supposed to be bright. Colors are also critical in logos and other branding, so they have to be exact. Using the CMYK color mode for full-color printing is crucial, instead of the RGB mode (which is used for digital displays).

The right resolution is also vital for large projects, and images should have a resolution of at least 300 dots per inch (DPI). This will make the images crisp and clear, and keep away from distracting pixilation of images. The overprint settings are also important to getting the right colors. This is the process of printing colors on top of each other, and maintaining the right settings will make sure the colors come through properly. 

Get Graphics in Order

One of the most important things is making sure your document size matches the final print size. This includes double checking the dimensions and resolution. If you’re using custom fonts, embed them within your document to make sure they display correctly. His is especially important when saving your files. If possible, use a print-ready format. PDFs are widely used, as they will maintain image quality and properly embed fonts. 

Whenever possible, use vector graphics for logos and text to make sure the sharpness is maintained. Vector graphics can also deliver better clarity regardless of size. It’s also important to collaborate with the printer to understand the specific process that will be used. Different processes may have different color profiles or resolution requirements, and working together with the printer will give you all of the information you need to get them the right images and files to make the project a success. 

One of the most important things throughout this process is communication, and working with a printer focused on customer service is crucial. They’ll be able to get all the right information to you, and walk you through the entire process. Be sure to get a proof of the project before the final product is created, so that you can get the peace of mind of knowing that it’s going to come out the way you want it. For more information, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

Where to Get Large Custom Banners Printed for Events

Putting on an event takes a lot of work. Marketing before the event is crucial, but sometimes you need a big custom banner to promote your event on the day everything comes together. These large banners make a great first impression, so it’s important that they are easy to read, colorful, and make a splash at your event. 

When searching for custom large banners for your events, it’s important to find a trusted source to create the product. Large format printing in Denver should be made professionally by an experienced printer that focuses on your needs. Every banner needs to be unique, and that means finding a printer that gives the proper attention to the individual needs of your project. 

Things to Look for in Your Printer

Creating a large custom banner has to be done right. One of the most important things you want in your banner is the quality of printing. That means finding a large format printer with experience. Check out the company’s portfolio or samples of their previous work. Signs of high quality should be apparent by checking out the print’s vibrant colors and high resolution. It’s also a good idea to ask about the printers and types of materials they use to make sure your banner will be made up to your standards. 

The printing company should have a proven track record of making large formant prints, and it’s even better if that experience extends into making banners for events. Check out their reputation by investigating reviews and testimonials from previous clients. A top quality printer may also be able to provide you with references from clients that needed similar projects printed. 

Communication is Key

Having proper communication is imperative when creating a large format printing project. Staying in constant communication will ensure that the printer can handle the size and other format requirements for your banner. They’ll also be able to communicate customization options, to make your banner to your exact specifications. This will also give insight into the printer’s technical expertise. 

Clear communication should be present throughout the entire process, and choosing a printer that communicates effectively shows they’re open to collaboration. This process has to include input from both sides. Your banner needs to be created to certain specifications and expectations, and the printer should be able to offer different options and opinions to help make it a successful project. This improves the overall value of the project, as customer service and communication go a long way in making your unique idea a reality. 

There’s more that goes into creating a great custom banner than just the right materials. Working with the right printing partner can sometimes turn your project into something bigger and better than you dreamed of. Finding the right printing partner is a crucial decision, so make sure you’re comfortable with the large format printer you’re working with. For more information on how to get the most out of your custom printed banner, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

How Can I Request a Quote or Estimate from a Printing Company?

Printing projects come in all shapes and sizes, and no two are alike. Working with a dynamic Denver printing company will usually get you lined up for the best results, but it’s also important to do your homework. Finding the right mix of experience, craftsmanship, creativity, customer service and budget can be tricky, but you want to make sure you’re getting the right experience, as well. 

When comparing prices between printing companies, it’s important to remember that not all printing companies are created equal, and sometimes the cheapest quote will get you the cheapest result. However, that shouldn’t stop you from looking for the best combination for your particular project. Getting quotes or estimates from printing companies is part of the deal, and there are a few things to consider to make sure all your bases are covered. 

Organize Your Project Details 

It’s important that you know all the details of your printing project before finding estimates. This means the type of printing you’re looking for, the number of items that need to be printed, paper type, color, size, and if you need finishing options like lamination. Having all of these specific requirements detailed early will prevent the surprise of added costs popping up later. Providing a brief description of your project with any special instructions will also go a long way in giving the printer the necessary information. 

If you have any digital files for your project, share them with the printing company. This will give the printer insight into the complexity of your project and help with a more accurate quote. This will also help you clearly communicate the details of your project to the printing company, allowing them to cover all the relevant aspects. This will also offer good information to the printer in regards to the quality of the prints, as well as color options and other details. 

Communicate Questions or Concerns

Clearly communicating the details of your project – from the types of printing to your timeline – will make sure everything gets covered. The more information, the better. Customer service is a major differentiator between printing companies, and they should be able to answer all of your questions and give you other insight into your project. Asking questions and offering insights should be welcomed by the printer, and give you an indication as to how it will be to work with them throughout your project. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations about aspects of the printing process. The printing company will likely be able to suggest options that will suit your particular needs and budget. Ask about the estimated turnaround time – especially if you have a specific deadline – and clarify the terms and conditions of your payment. The printer should be forthcoming with all of this information, and there shouldn’t be any questions surrounding the estimate. 

It’s important to know what to expect with your printing project, and to have the customer service to communicate with you throughout the creation of your printed items. For more information on printing projects and how important customer service is during the process of getting quotes or estimates, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

Can Large Format Prints Be Used for Both Indoor and Outdoor Applications?

When done the right way, large format prints can be a great way to produce a big image that can turn a lot of heads. From canvas wraps and posters to full-fledged banners that are several feet and length, there’s a lot of things large format printing can do. Getting large format printing in Denver done properly is key, as there is much more to it than slapping an image on a big piece of vinyl. 

Service and expertise are key to getting the right materials for your documents or images into large format, and that’s especially important if you’re item is going to be exposed to the elements. Large format prints can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications, but that’s when it’s important to make sure you’re getting it completed the right way. 

outdoor fair image

Indoor Applications for Large Format Prints

When thinking of posters or images on canvas, many people are looking at getting those in large format to hang on walls indoors. When working to create something for inside, you can print on a multitude of materials like paper, poster board, canvas, or other fabrics. Since they’ll likely remain indoors, they won’t be exposed to direct sunlight or other harsh elements, and don’t require the same durability as outdoor prints. 

There are endless possibilities for large format prints to be used indoors. From the previously mentioned posters and canvas images, to things like wall graphics or other art reproductions. Large format printing is also fantastic for creating stunning images for trade show displays or other events. Retractable stand-up banners have become increasingly popular (and are easy to transport), and the larger, horizontal banners can also make a splash indoors. 

Outdoor Applications for Large Format Prints

The most important thing for using large format printing on items that will be outdoors is durability. Be sure to consider things like wind, rain, and the fluctuations in temperature. Common outdoor examples of large format prints outside are things like signs for an event, large banners for a grand opening or other event, and larger signage when things like posters won’t cut it. Every application might pose different threats, so it’s crucial to work with a professional to make sure you’re getting the best items for your budget. 

Outdoor large format prints are generally made out of vinyl, mesh, durable fabric and other more durable materials. Larger banners can be made with perforations to help them stand up better in the wind, and there are also ways to make the items more resistant to weather’s other harsh elements. Laminating can also add another layer of protection, but that also depends on what the product will be exposed to. 

Whether you need large format printing for indoors or outdoors, you should discuss the project with a professional printer before making any decisions. You want these prints to hold up under any circumstance, so getting the best material and the right quality will go a long way in making the print a success. For more information, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Printing Company?

If you’re going to a printing company with a project, there are a few things you’re probably expecting. You want it done right, for the right price, on your schedule. When it comes to finding the right Denver printing company, not all of them are created equal. Some specialize in particular items, while others pride themselves on being a one-stop shop for all of your needs. 

Price and budget is always a factor, but there are a number of other things that should play into your decision before you start worrying about the price point. Having a number of important factors for your project will show the printer you’re prepared, and that you’re serious about the project. You want to find a printer that mirrors that seriousness, and is dedicated to your project from start to finish. 

Quality Should Be First & Foremost

When searching for a printing company, you obviously want to see some examples of the quality of their work. Ask for samples of items they’ve previously done that are similar to your project. This will give you a good idea of the print quality you’ll receive. Whether you need images or text printed, you want high-resolution to make sure everything is crisp and clear. It’s also important to make sure they can match your colors accurately to specifications. 

High-quality work is only one aspect, however. Making sharp prints is one thing, but you also want to have quality in the customer service. Choosing a printing company that has a reputation of respecting your schedule and all of the particulars of your project is paramount in crafting a successful experience. Don’t be afraid to check out online reviews or seek out other client testimonials to find out how consistently they go above and beyond for their clients. That’s the best indication of how you will likely be treated throughout the process. 

Versatility, Technology & Turnaround Time

Most printers can do a variety of different things, so ask about the types of printing they do. You might have one thing in mind, but an experienced printer might have a better option for you. If you’re looking for something to be duplicated on a large scale for a professional engagement, ask if they do finishing services. This can include things like lamination, binding printed materials, or even embossing or foil stamping. 

Many people don’t think about the equipment the printer uses, but it’s worth it to see how modern their printers are. If your project requires newer printing technologies, ask if they’ll be able to handle it. Another crucial item to ask about is how long the process will take. Make sure to get clear and concise information about the production time it will take to produce the products, and how soon they’ll be delivered. 

There are a lot of things to consider when using a printing company, but almost all of them boil down to simple communication. Customer service will be uncovered by how quickly they answer your questions or address your concerns, and there should be a support system to help throughout the entire process. For more information, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

What Materials Can be Used for Large Format Printing?

Large format printing is a beneficial tool for businesses because it allows them to display messages and graphics bigger and better. Regardless of your need for a large banner or a floor sign, your message will be seen thanks to large format printing.

What Is Large Format Printing?

Large format printing is any printing job done on large sheets of paper or other materials. Typically, these jobs are too big to be done on normal commercial printing presses. They necessitate specific tools to give you an enlarged printing space.

Graphic-heavy projects and printing projects that must be seen from a distance are excellent candidates for large format printing. Popular large format print products are canvas wraps, posters, banners, and window graphics.  

Typical Large Format Printing Materials

The first step in a large format printing project is choosing the surface. Here are typical large format printing materials: 

  • Canvas
  • Vinyl 
  • Plastics
  • Cloth
  • Coated or uncoated paper
  • Foams
  • PVC
  • Metals
  • Wood

Typical Large Format Printing Products

Here are typical large format printing products:

  • Business signs
  • Posters
  • Canvas wraps
  • Window graphics
  • Banners (indoor and outdoor)
  • Wall and floor graphics

Advantages of Large Format Printing

Regardless of your business or service, large format printing is a great way to get your message across to your community and make a lasting impression. Whether it's an industrial complex, shopping mall, retail store, or office building, there are numerous settings in which large format printing makes a significant impact. Since the material and size are customizable, large format printing fits any needs and budget. 

Considerations for Large Format Printing

There are a few things to consider before requesting a large format printing job. A business that specializes in large format printing in Denver will be able to provide some assistance on the matter. 

When you begin to plan your large format printing project, you’ll need to think about how you want the final product to be seen. For example, if you are creating a sign for a trade show, the product is probably going to be viewed up close by attendees. In this situation, you may want to enhance the dots per inch (DPI) as much as possible. Likewise, if your finished product is going to be a banner, then the target audience will be viewing it from a great distance. Therefore, you need to use lower dots per inch. 

High-Quality Large Format Printing in Denver

For over 50 years, we have been serving Denver, CO and the surrounding areas with high-quality large format printing. We've lasted this long in the printing industry because our service is based on our core values of integrity, affordability, and excellence. Our team works diligently to give our customers the best large format printing product possible within the deadline they need it. Contact us to get started on your next printing project.

Do printing companies help with graphic design?

Printing companies have long been used to implement your branding into eye-catching brochures, pamphlets, as well as banners and signs. However, their expertise doesn’t stop there. For those still trying to establish their brand, a trusted Denver printing company can help you establish and fine tune your branding by offering help with graphic design and other services. 

Many business owners don’t necessarily have the design skills to create print-ready artwork themselves. From advice on adjusting colors and resolution, to creating visually appealing logos and designs, many printing companies can help establish your branding from start to finish. 

Many printing companies have their own in-house graphic designers – or partnerships with outside design professionals – that can help their clients develop visually appealing designs for print materials. Whether it’s the small stuff like designing a business card to designing the layout of a brochure to coming up with a new logo for your business, these designers can do it. They’ll work with you to create a new or updated design that suits your needs and branding. 

Even if you have your own design, the printing company’s designers can perform a review of the artwork to make sure it meets all of the technical requirements for printing. By adjusting colors, dimensions, and other elements, they can make sure that your design will translate well onto the final printed product. Printing companies will also provide you with proofs of your design before any prints are finalized. This allows for your own approval before anything moves forward, correcting any mistakes and making sure it meets your expectations. 

Take Advantage of Technology

Branding needs to go to a number of different places in today’s fast-paced world. Billboards and banners are still around, but your logos and other images have to get across multiple platforms including social media and your website. Consistency is key with branding, and printing companies can help manage your color profiles to make sure that the colors of your design remain consistent no matter where they’re displayed. 

Printers can also use their software to format your artwork correctly to meet the specifications when creating printed materials, reducing the risk of errors with margins, bleeds, and other technical details during the printing process. They can also put your images into vector format, which helps make low-resolution images look crisp and clear – even when they need to be printed at a larger size. Scaling your logo and branding is crucial, especially when splashing it across multiple platforms. These expert designers can take the stress out of this process, so you know it’s going to look the same everywhere. 

Printing companies that offer help with graphic design can be a big benefit during any branding process. They’ll make sure you’re getting the most out of your printed products, and the branding across all platforms. For more information on how this may help your business, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

How to Choose the Right Paper Type and Weight for Your Printing Project

When you have a printing job, you might want it to be as simple as giving your file to the printing professional and getting the work done.

But then you must answer a question that’s not so simple: what type of paper do you want your job printed on?

If you’re confused about which paper is best for your printing project, you’re not alone. Numerous individuals are uncertain about their paper choice when asked the question. Professionals in the printing industry believe the best approach to helping people is to give them all the info they need to make an informed decision about their jobs.

It can be difficult to know all the various paper types and weights for printing. Possessing some knowledge of the common paper types can help you know why one type and weight of paper is better than another one. Check out these tips on how to select the correct type of paper for your printing project.

Pounds

When it comes to pounds, the word essentially means how much paper weighs. The thicker the paper stock is, the bigger the weight is going to be. For instance, bond paper weighs approximately 20 to 80 pounds. Heavier card stock weighs around 50 and 140 pounds. Paper weight is calculated not by an individual sheet, but by a ream which is typically 500 sheets.

Points

Points rate the thickness of the paper rather than the weight, which don’t always match directly to each other. Using points to establish paper thickness is more scientific, than using instruments to calculate the thickness. 

The greater the point value, the thicker the paper. While this might not seem important when measuring up numbers to numbers, it becomes very apparent in the completed printed product.

Bond Paper Types for Print Jobs

Lightweight Bond Paper

Lightweight bond paper is a budget-friendly, versatile option for everyday printing needs. It’s widely used for office printers and copiers, making it an excellent choice for printing faxes and emails, as well as making copies without having to spend a lot of money.

Creating stationery and letterhead is another common use for lighter-weight bond paper. Additionally, lightweight bond paper works well in high-speed copiers, delivering clear, neat copies even at a rapid speed.

Mid-Weight Bond Paper

Mid-weight bond paper is a multipurpose solution for an assortment of printing needs, serving as an excellent choice for creative and office usage.

This paper type provides the perfect balance of professionalism and durability. It’s best for:

  • Double-sided reports
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Legal documents

Mid-weight bond paper is an essential part of any workplace.

Best Printing Company in Denver

Well-known as the best Denver commercial printer company, our family-owned business can help you promote and market your brand whether you need business cards, store signage, booklets, brochures, or any other commercial business product. Contact us today and let’s discuss your next print job.

What Types of Marketing Materials Can Be Produced With a Commercial Printer?

One of the most important things you can do for your business is get the word out through marketing. While much of the focus is on maximizing your online presence, printed marketing materials can still make a big impact. From business cards to banners and other signage, a Denver commercial printer can help deliver your message and make a splash while doing it. 

The versatility of commercial printers means they will be able to handle many of your needs, as they do more than just print business cards. By getting all of your printing needs in the same place, you make sure that your message is getting across with consistency in your branding.

Stand Out at Sales Meetings

Even if your business has a rocking website, you still likely need to meet with potential clients face-to-face. A commercial printer can deliver a wide array of items to help you stand out in those sales meetings to help lock down those clients. Commercial printers can make stunning business cards that are essential for networking, as well as beautiful presentation folders that allow you to present your sales information in an organized and professional manner. 

Commercial printers can also create all of your brochures and flyers for these meetings, or just to deliver information on your business. Brochures can come in a number of forms, and offer detailed information about your products and services. Flyers can be used as attention-grabbing printed materials that promote events, special offers, or just general awareness of your brand. Using a commercial printer will make sure all of these products align to get your message across cleanly. 

Get Consistency With Your Branding

Branding and marketing go hand in hand, and making sure you’re staying consistent with your message is paramount – but how the message looks is also important. Commercial printers can develop things like letterheads and catalogs that will be consistent with all of your other marketing materials, like those business cards and presentation folders. Letterheads aren’t the only corporate stationary they can deliver, as many commercial printers can also create envelopes and other items to help you maintain that consistent image. 

From a promotional standpoint, commercial printers can create items like banners and other types of signage that work both indoors and outdoors. Posters can be used for advertising, branding, or for promoting your products. Roll-up banners are a great item to help you stand out at these events, and they’re easy to set up, transport, and store. These are crucial to making you get more attention at things like trade shows and other similar events. 

It’s important to discuss your specific needs and other requirements with your Denver commercial printer to make sure they can deliver the required results. They may also be able to give you some insight on how to improve your branding and marketing. For more information, reach out to the experts at Cottrell Printing today.

Large Format Printing - How to improve your brand visibility

Large format printing has become a popular choice for businesses looking to create eye-catching visuals that make an impact. From signs and banners to trade show booth displays, large format printing offers a variety of uses that can help businesses stand out and make a statement. Here, we’ll breakdown some of the most popular and effective large format options to increase your company’s visibility.

Signs

As the most critical customer facing component of any brick & mortar establishment, signage gives you the opportunity to attract customers and convey your brand image right from the start. Additionally, signs can be used to promote products, direct customers to specific areas, or simply reinforce the company's logo. Our team helps businesses to create signs that are bold, bright, and attention-grabbing. From vinyl banners to rigid signs made of materials like coroplast or foam board, large format printing offers endless possibilities for businesses looking to create signs that will make an impact.

Banners

Banners are an effective way to advertise events, sales, or promotions. They can be hung indoors or outdoors and are printed on vinyl or mesh materials that are durable and weather resistant. Our specialized equipment allows businesses to create banners that are vivid, high-quality, and long-lasting. With the ability to print banners in a range of sizes, businesses can create banners that are the perfect fit for their specific needs.

Banner Stands

Retractable Banner stands are a portable way to display banners in a variety of settings. They are most commonly used at trade shows, conferences, and other events where businesses want to make a big impact.

Trade Show Booth Displays

We offer hundreds of products to help you build your trade show booth. Our goal is to help you showcase your products and services in a way that is engaging and memorable. Large format printing plays a key role in creating trade show booth displays that stand out from the crowd. From backdrop banners to custom-designed booth structures, large format printing allows businesses to create displays that are unique and attention-grabbing.

Our robust large format capabilities provide your business with a range of possibilities for creating visually stunning marketing materials. From signs and banners to banner stands and trade show booth displays, your business can use large format printing to make a lasting impression on potential customers.

Take a look at some of our many options here: Cottrell Printing's Large Format Options