print design - What should you ask the printer?

I come late to the party so there is no much to add, but here are my humble additions:

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My art uses overprinting. Will you be able to do so?

I have found that many printers get confused when art uses overprinting, because (apparently) it is not used very often. I always highlight this to them so they are aware that I will be using it. I often set the areas with overprinting to both overprint and multiply, just to make sure is not missed.

I am using unusual inks (such as metal inks). Do you have any suggestions on the order in which they can be printed or overprinted?

Unusual inks can be scary if they are not used correctly. I have seen boxes peeling off because the art was overprinted on a metal flood and it never cured. Highlighting to the printer that you are using the unusual ink and asking for their opinion is always a great idea. Sometimes different printers have different ways of working with the ink. This question might also raise flags that nobody had noticed. Metal inks might need extra curing time, which might move the deadline and/or add to the final cost, for example.

What types of finish do you offer/work with? Do they have any special requirements?

I notice that every time I go to print a project, there are a myriad of new finishes that I did not know existed. I always end up with a new swash book of finishes, which is great. They have sometimes special requirements such as extra curing time or incompatibility with metal inks, so it is always good to ask.

Can the finish be applied inline?

A finish that can be applied inline saves time. Not all finishes come in this style though, and not all printers carry all of them. Sometimes asking this question just allows you to learn that the finish you had selected was an old fashion one that needed for the ink to be 100% cured but they have a new one that can be applied inline and be done with it as opposed to waiting for the curing time.

Can the finish be spot-applied?

Not all finishes can be applied in only a spot (area). This depends on the actual finish and on the actual press the provider has.

Do you offer embossing? What types? How should I provide the art?

If either the embossing plates or the whole embossing task are outsourced then there might be different requirements to how you provide the art.

How accurate is the registration of the embossing? What is the maximum acceptable error margin?

Depending on the type of embossing and how old the provider machinery is they might not be able to assure the embossed area will be 100% registered with the art. It is always good to know so in advance to avoid surprises and adapt the art to their capabilities.

What is the maximum acceptable error margin for trimming?

If the trimming is not as straightforward as a rectangle (think a cosmetics box as opposed to a magazine spread) and if their machinery is old, then they might not be able to assure a very tight registration. It is good to know so and to adapt the art for trimming variations.

Do you offer barcode testing?

Certain inks (such as metal inks, for example) render barcodes illegible. Horrible thing to find when the product has already been delivered to the retailer. Most printers I have worked with offer the service of testing the barcode after is printed just to make sure it is readable. They offer this for free, but I often find that if I don't ask for it, they don't do it.

Is any part of the process outsourced?

Sometimes finishing, embossing and trimming are outsourced, because they require extra machinery that the printer might not be interested in buying. If you are adding another provider to the process it is always good to know so, particularly if you need to complain or fine tune. If the other provider is hidden behind the printer and your printer is not doing a good job on representing you, then it can get tricky and add time to the deadline.

Can you assure you will not edit my art once I send it? If you need to do so, can you please let me know what you are doing or, better, let me do it?

This sounds like an idiotic question, but sometimes some adventurous printers take liberties and move things around to fix production problems you might have missed or change colours because they think you made a mistake. Highlighting to them that you don't want them to do so is a good idea. There is usually more than one way of overcoming a production problem and their choice of solution might not be the one you might have preferred.

Can I come to a press approval?

I love press approvals because it is fascinating to see my digital work turned into actual plates and ink; I think offset presses are awesome (as in awe inspiring) and I also learn a lot from press operators. But besides my personal geeky fascinations I find that coming to the a press approval, at least the first run of a project, allows me to catch problems that would have been terrible to catch when the whole thing is already run (like misunderstanding overprinting) and sometimes make last minute decisions (like "OK, overprinting metal is not working, forget about the metal, make it black"). It also allows me to see how careful the printer is. Sometimes they can be sloppy if they are under tight deadlines (hickies much?). Make sure not to micromanage, though, (note to myself) and to trust they know what they are doing.

Printing 101: 12 Tips When Buying Ink For Your Wide Format Printer

In the world of printing, the choice of printer inks is a critical decision that can significantly impact the quality and longevity of your printed materials. Whether you&#;re operating a small home-based print shop or managing a large-scale commercial printing business, the right printer inks are essential to achieving vibrant, accurate, and consistent results. As technology continues to advance, the market offers a wide array of ink options, each with its unique features and advantages.

In this article, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting printer inks, the various types available, and how to make an informed choice that aligns with your business&#;s specific needs and objectives. Whether you&#;re seeking to enhance the colour accuracy of your photographic prints, improve the durability of your outdoor signage, or simply looking for cost-effective ink solutions, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the dynamic world of printer inks.

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Why Knowing the Right Ink Is Important?

Knowing the right printer inks for your printing business is of paramount importance due to its direct impact on the quality, durability, and overall success of your printed materials. First and foremost, the choice of ink significantly influences the colour accuracy and vibrancy of your prints. Whether you&#;re producing stunning outdoor billboards, eye-catching trade show banners, or architectural renderings, the right ink ensures that the final output matches your intended vision. This is particularly crucial for businesses involved in graphic design, advertising, and marketing, where colour consistency and precision are paramount for effective communication with customers.

Moreover, the right printer inks play a pivotal role in determining the longevity and durability of your printed products. For instance, if you&#;re in the outdoor signage or vehicle wrap industry, using UV-resistant and weatherproof inks is essential to ensure that your prints can withstand the elements and maintain their quality over time. In addition, some industries, such as textile and garment printing, require inks that can withstand repeated washing without fading or degrading. Choosing the wrong ink can result in costly reprints, dissatisfied customers, and a damaged reputation. Therefore, understanding the properties and compatibility of different printer inks is crucial for achieving the best results and optimizing your business&#;s overall efficiency and profitability.

Different Types of Inks For Your Wide-Format Printer

Printers utilize a variety of ink types to cater to diverse printing needs and applications. One common ink type is pigment ink, known for its durability and resistance to fading. It&#;s often used in applications where longevity and water resistance are critical, such as outdoor signage and archival photo printing. Pigment ink particles are larger and sit on the surface of the paper, which contributes to their robustness.

On the other hand, dye-based inks are known for their vibrant and saturated colours. They are often used in photo printers to achieve high-quality, glossy photo prints. Dye-based inks are more affordable but tend to fade faster than pigment inks, making them better suited for indoor applications or short-term use.

Another ink type is solvent ink, which is commonly used in large format and outdoor printing. Solvent inks are designed to adhere to various materials, including vinyl, canvas, and textiles, and they offer excellent outdoor durability and resistance to environmental factors like UV rays and water.

Eco-solvent inks are eco-friendly alternatives to solvent inks, providing similar outdoor durability while emitting fewer harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These inks are commonly used in vehicle graphics, banners, and outdoor signage.

UV-curable inks are unique in that they dry instantly when exposed to UV light. This fast-drying characteristic makes them suitable for various applications, from rigid materials like glass and metal to flexible substrates like vinyl and fabric. UV-curable inks are known for their scratch resistance and vibrant colours.

Dye-sublimation ink is primarily used for textile and apparel printing. It works by turning into a gas when heated, allowing it to penetrate the fabric&#;s fibres. This results in durable, wash-resistant prints ideal for clothing, sportswear, and soft signage.

Each ink type has its strengths and weaknesses, making it essential for businesses to choose the right ink based on their specific printing requirements and intended applications.

Tips When Buying Printer&#;s Ink

When purchasing printer ink, there are several important tips to keep in mind to ensure you get the right ink for your needs and make the most out of your printing experience:

1. Check Compatibility: Ensure that the ink is compatible with your specific printer model. Printer manufacturers often produce inks designed for their printers, and using compatible ink ensures optimal performance and print quality.
2. Warranty Consideration: Choosing an after-market ink, although might be well-reviewed and quite popular, will void your printer&#;s warranty. Even if the ink manufacturer may offer you a warranty head replacement, you should be careful and probably wait until the warranty period has expired.
3. Consider Ink Type: Determine the type of ink that suits your printing needs. As mentioned earlier, there are various ink types. Select the ink type that matches your intended applications, whether it&#;s standard documents, high-quality photos, outdoor signage, or textile printing.
4. Choose Quality: Opt for high-quality ink cartridges or bottles from reputable manufacturers. While generic or third-party inks may be more affordable, they can sometimes lead to print quality issues or damage your printer. Stick to trusted brands to ensure consistent results.
5. Consider Page Yield: Pay attention to the page yield of the ink cartridges. Page yield indicates how many pages you can print before needing to replace the cartridge. This helps you estimate the cost per page, making it easier to budget for your printing needs.
6. Look for XL or High-Capacity Cartridges: If you do a lot of printing, consider purchasing high-capacity or XL cartridges. These cartridges contain more ink and can be more cost-effective in the long run, even with a higher upfront cost.
7. Check Expiration Dates: Be aware of the ink&#;s expiration date. Ink can deteriorate over time, affecting print quality. Avoid using expired ink, and if you have cartridges that have been sitting for a while, consider checking their status before use.
8. Read Reviews: Research and read user reviews and expert opinions on the specific ink you&#;re considering. This can provide valuable insights into the ink&#;s performance, longevity, and overall quality.
9. Store Properly: Once you&#;ve purchased ink, store it according to the manufacturer&#;s recommendations. Exposure to extreme temperatures or sunlight can degrade ink quality.
10. Consider Refilling: Some printers allow you to refill ink cartridges, which can be more cost-effective than buying brand-new cartridges. However, not all printers support this, so check your printer&#;s compatibility.
11. Buy in Bulk: If you anticipate regular usage, buying ink in bulk can often lead to cost savings. Many retailers offer multipacks or bundles that reduce the per-cartridge cost.
12. Recycle Old Cartridges: Consider recycling your empty ink cartridges. Many printer manufacturers and office supply stores have recycling programs that may offer incentives or discounts for returning used cartridges.

By following these tips, you can make informed decisions when purchasing printer ink, ensuring that you get the right ink for your printing needs while maximizing your printer&#;s performance and longevity.

In conclusion, making informed choices when it comes to printer ink is essential for achieving the best results in your printing endeavours. By following these tips, you can ensure that your printer consistently delivers outstanding prints while keeping your printing budget in check.

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