1. Artwork & File Types
Artwork is the digital file supplied for printing. This could be a design, document, or image that will appear in the final printed product.
Bleed is a extra area of artwork that extends beyond the trim edge. Bleed ensures that when the product is cut to size, there are no unwanted white borders.
Typical bleed: 3mm on all sides.
Trim is the final size of the printed product after cutting.
Safe Area (or Quiet Zone) is a margin inside the trim where important text or graphics should be kept to avoid being cut off. Usually 3–5mm inside the trim line.
Resolution is the clarity of an image, measured in dpi (dots per inch). For high‑quality print, artwork should be 300 dpi.
Vector File is a piece of artwork made from paths rather than pixels, allowing it to scale without losing quality. Common formats: AI, EPS, SVG, PDF.
Raster Image is a pixel‑based artwork such as photographs. Common formats: JPG, PNG, TIFF.
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2. Colour Terminology
CMYK
The colour mode used for print: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black.
All artwork for print should be supplied in CMYK.
RGB
The colour mode used for screens: Red, Green, Blue.
RGB colours often appear brighter on screen than they will in print.
Pantone (PMS)
A standardised colour matching system used to ensure colour consistency. Pantone colours are pre‑mixed inks rather than combinations of CMYK - For PMS colours you would need to submit a bespoke quote
Colour Profile
A set of data that defines how colours should appear on different devices. Common print profile: ISO Coated v2.
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3. Paper & Finishing Terms
GSM
Grams per square metre — the weight and thickness of paper.
Examples:
- 90–120gsm: standard office paper
- 170–200gsm: leaflets or posters
- 300–450gsm: business cards or covers
Coated Paper
Paper with a smooth, sealed surface. Available in gloss, silk, or matt finishes.
Uncoated Paper
Paper with a natural, slightly textured feel. Common for stationery or letterheads.
Lamination
A protective film applied to the surface of printed items. Options include matt, gloss, and soft‑touch.
Scodix
A glossy varnish applied to specific areas to create contrast and highlight details.
Die‑Cutting
Cutting paper into custom shapes using a metal die.
Scodix Foiling
Applying metallic foil (gold, silver, etc.) to the scodixed area
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4. Print Processes
Digital Printing
Ideal for short runs and fast turnaround. Cost‑effective for small quantities.
Litho (Offset) Printing
Uses plates and ink for high‑volume, high‑quality print. More economical for large runs.
Large Format Printing
Used for posters, banners, signage, and other oversized items.
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5. Common Issues & Checks
Colour Shift
A difference between on‑screen colours and printed colours, often caused by RGB‑to‑CMYK conversion.
Pixelation
Blurry or blocky images caused by low resolution.
Misregistration
When colours or layers don’t align perfectly during printing.
Trapping
A technique used to prevent gaps between colours by slightly overlapping them.