Blog posts of '2023' 'November'

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.