At Print Image, we've done our best to create a Web site that anticipates and satisfies our customers' needs. With that goal in mind, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions. If you do not find an answer to your question here, contact us at 011 447 3133 or email us at sales@printimage.co.za

1. How do I find the right printer?
2. What quantities should I print?
3. What paper should I use?
4. How do I keep my image professional?
5. What is a proof?
6. How do I avoid hidden costs?
7. Can you help me with ideas?
8. How do I request a quote?
9. How long will my job take to print?
10. How do I set up my artwork for business card in Corel?

1. HOW DO I FIND THE RIGHT PRINTER?
Not every printer can print everything. Some printers specialise in different types of printing. At Print Image we specialise in printing the normal office stationery from business cards, letterheads to NCR books. We can print in all spot colours and in full colour, and offer a comprehensive range of finishing services. We also offer a full graphic design service and are able to handle a job from concept to final print.

2. WHAT QUANTITIES SHOULD I PRINT?
Print only what you need. American studies show that approximately 30% of every print job goes to waste. Take the time to determine accurate quantities, and resist the temptation every printer will put in front of you by quoting for higher quantities at a lower cost per unit. Only if you know your printing won't change, should you take the higher quantities. You must keep your ear to the ground to determine if things like phone numbers, directors, addresses, web sites, are going to change shortly. Then only order enough printing to tide you over until the change occurs. 

3. WHAT PAPER SHOULD I USE?
Choose your paper carefully. Paper normally constitutes 30% or more of your printing bill. Paper comes in a wide range of grades, weights, colours and finishes. Normally the local equivalent of an imported paper is cheaper. Discuss with us to see if there is a cheaper alternative that does not reduce the quality.

The printing industry works on standard size papers based on ISO sizes. So the most cost effective jobs are in the A4/A3 size range or divisors or multiples of this size. Envelopes, files, computer printers are pre-made for these standard sizes as well. The more unusual the finished size, the higher the price.

Consider using 80GSM bond. This is the high quality paper that is used for most office paper and due to the economies of scale at the paper mills, it is amongst the cheapest high quality paper available.

The basic rule of thumb for paper choice is go light, white and uncoated. Lightweight paper is cheaper than heavier paper. White paper is cheaper than coloured paper and uncoated paper is cheaper than coated paper. Don't forget that paper can effect your postage costs to the extent that postage can cost more than the printing. So consult us about your paper choice as paper changes continuously.

4. HOW DO I KEEP MY IMAGE PROFESSIONAL?
Draw up a comprehensive range of print specifications. We can assist you in drawing up these specifications, which ensures a consistent and professional image. These specifications cover the typeface, ink colour, layout and paper size amongst other things. Then when changes occur, only the details change and not your corporate image. This also removes the temptation from print users to change fonts, layouts and logos. If this needs to be done, they must follow your internal procedure to update the specifications and also be made aware of the impact of this.
 

5. WHAT IS A PROOF?
A proof is a trial version for checking that we have set your design accurately and what will be printed is to your requirements. Take proofreading seriously. You or your designated proofreader (not the printer or the graphic designer) is responsible for signing off the proof and giving the OK to print . Don't assume that others, such as the printer or graphic designer, will be proofing your printing. If there are last minute changes to printing and this results in mistakes, you will be charged. Don't skimp on this important step, as you cannot send out any printing with typos, it is unprofessional. The cost of reprinting must also be factored in and the time available for reprinting.

6. HOW DO I AVOID HIDDEN COSTS?
Plan ahead and avoid hidden costs. Most of our printing jobs are produced in a few days. For larger quantities and complicated projects more time is required. We have to schedule press time, buy the paper, show you proofs several times for your approval and deliver. Rush jobs cost more, as the production schedule has to be changed. Jobs that are already set up have to be stopped etc. These costs are all included in the price. Bear in mind that printing is customised manufacturing. Each job is new and different. There are many hidden costs and pitfalls, which you can avoid by proper planning.

7. CAN YOU HELP ME WITH IDEAS?
At Print Image we have several ideas that could save money. Also we have a range of corporate gifts that is unique and designed to enhance your image. If your budget is tight, you can look at one colour print on coloured textured paper. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your ideas with you and we can throw some of our own into the pot. Get us involved early in planning your printing projects so we can give advice on how to control your printing costs.

Printing is very technical, and the more you know, the more you save. Finding the right printer is critical and we want to be that right printer for you. If you want to discuss this further, contact us and a representative will come and discuss how to manage your printing process to your advantage.
 
8. HOW DO I REQUEST A QUOTE?
As every job is different, we need certain information to quote accurately and quickly. You will need to supply the following information:

• Quantity required
• Size required
• Number of colours to be printed
• Number of sides to be printed ie front only or front and back
• Type of paper required
• How artwork will be supplied.

9. HOW LONG WILL MY JOB TAKE TO PRINT?
As every job is different, there is no straight answer to this question. Some jobs are quick and can be done on the spot, whereas others are more complicated and might take a few days. Speak to us about your deadline and we will let you know if it can be done.

10. HOW DO I SET UP ARTWORK IN COREL FOR BUSINESS CARDS?
If you have designed your own business cards in Corel and wish to submit the artwork to us for printing, please follow these guidelines to ensure accurate printing of your file.