Marstan Press are a Kent based printing company specialising in Litho Print and Digital Printing for UK customers. We have over 50 years years experience in delivery Commercial Print of the highest quality.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Monday, June 20, 2011
How important is social media to your business?
Social Media Networking divides opinion. Some companies have dedicated Twitter account handlers, some have facebook pages as a token gesture and some haven't got a clue what all the fuss is about! Put simply, social media does not suit all companies. For example if you sell zimmer frames there is a good chance that your customer base haven't even heard of Facebook or Twitter! Similarly websites such as http://www.fondfarewellfuneralstationery.co.uk/ which sells personalised funeral stationery would not benefit from a Facebook page. People just don't want to 'Like' a funeral related website! The site also won't have a large base of repeat customers due to the nature of the products. Therefore there is no benefit in having a group of customers that you can communicate to through Facebook.
On the other hand personalised greeting card and gift site http://www.winstonandharry.com/ is well positioned to benefit from using Facebook and Twitter. Both sites allows customers to be kept up to date with offers and promotions which can lead to repeat business. The core market for a personalised gifts website is 18-40 year olds, so it is likely that customers are familiar with, and use Facebook or Twitter.
Both the examples so far have been of businesses selling to the public - i.e. business to consumer. However a lot of business is done between businesses, i.e. business to business selling. Again social media will suit some more than others. For example if the company is in a very niche market with only a hand full of very large customers there is little need for them to adopt any social media marketing. However companies selling products which are in high demand can benefit. For example Marstan Press is a Litho and Digital Printing Company based in Kent. There is a good chance that a lot of people know someone who buys print for their company, bearing in mind that most companies have some level of digital or litho printing requirement. By building up a network of followers Marstan Press is able to communicate offers and promotions very easily, such as the recently relaunched Refer a Friend Scheme. Marstan's followers can then Retweet or repost the promotion so that Marstan's message is seen by more than just it's own followers. Indeed all news stories on the Marstan Press website have social network 'buttons' which allow visitors to easily post the story to their own facebook wall, Stumbleupon account or Twitter account.
In my opinion, Linkedin provides the best tool for businesses. Essentially it is a business version of Facebook, where you add people you've done business with. You can see who your connections are linked to and ask for introductions and referrals. Its a great way of identifying people in a certain role, and if used actively can prove to be an essential business tool.
Want to get cash back on your purchases?
Recommended:
A friend told me about Quidco a few months ago. I have since earnt myself nearly £100 in cash back simply by visiting the Quidco website and linking through to the online store that I wanted to purchase from. I have also earnt some cash back from using my debit or credit card in high street shops.
Because Quidco has so many members, they are capable of pushing significant traffic to retailers. Therefore the retailers pay Quidco a commission for anyone who clicks through from the Quidco site on to the retailer's site. I'm lucky as I use this for my company purchases as well. The two I earn most cash back on is Viking Direct for my stationery and Ebay for a range of items. Quidco pass on all their commission, and make their money by keeping the first £5 each year.
Marstan Press are not currently affiliated with cash back sites like Quidco, however we are able to offer retrospective discounts to our litho print customers based on volume. We also offer people the chance to get a free Wii or iPod Nano through our refer a friend scheme. All you need to do is give us the details of a friend or family member who buys either digital printing or litho print services and if they spend £1500 with Marstan Press you get a Wii or Nano!
A friend told me about Quidco a few months ago. I have since earnt myself nearly £100 in cash back simply by visiting the Quidco website and linking through to the online store that I wanted to purchase from. I have also earnt some cash back from using my debit or credit card in high street shops.
Because Quidco has so many members, they are capable of pushing significant traffic to retailers. Therefore the retailers pay Quidco a commission for anyone who clicks through from the Quidco site on to the retailer's site. I'm lucky as I use this for my company purchases as well. The two I earn most cash back on is Viking Direct for my stationery and Ebay for a range of items. Quidco pass on all their commission, and make their money by keeping the first £5 each year.
Marstan Press are not currently affiliated with cash back sites like Quidco, however we are able to offer retrospective discounts to our litho print customers based on volume. We also offer people the chance to get a free Wii or iPod Nano through our refer a friend scheme. All you need to do is give us the details of a friend or family member who buys either digital printing or litho print services and if they spend £1500 with Marstan Press you get a Wii or Nano!
Need a quick printing quote?
UKPrintingQuote.co.uk has launched giving users the opportunity to generate their own printing quotes using a simple and easy to use online quote system.
The system has been configured with accurate rates provided by Kent and London Litho and Digital Print Services provider Marstan Press. The print industry is very fast moving, so allowing clients to produce their own accurate print quotes benefits the client as they get their price immediately, whilst there is less demand on quoting resources in the office at Marstan Press.
The UKPrintingQuote.co.uk system allows users to generate a quote, place an order, upload artwork and pay in one easy to use process. Companies with a regular print spend can apply for a credit account.
Acknowledging that not everyone wants to utilise this facility, Marstan Press still give visitors the opportunity to fill out a simple form for one of their trained estimators to produce a quote. Alternatively print buyers wanting a competitive quote can email Quotes@themarstanpress.co.uk
The system has been configured with accurate rates provided by Kent and London Litho and Digital Print Services provider Marstan Press. The print industry is very fast moving, so allowing clients to produce their own accurate print quotes benefits the client as they get their price immediately, whilst there is less demand on quoting resources in the office at Marstan Press.
The UKPrintingQuote.co.uk system allows users to generate a quote, place an order, upload artwork and pay in one easy to use process. Companies with a regular print spend can apply for a credit account.
Acknowledging that not everyone wants to utilise this facility, Marstan Press still give visitors the opportunity to fill out a simple form for one of their trained estimators to produce a quote. Alternatively print buyers wanting a competitive quote can email Quotes@themarstanpress.co.uk
Is the Thomson Local Directory a Sign of the Print Industry's Decline
The new Thomsons Directory popped through the door this morning, and appeared smaller than ever. Now reduced to less than A5 in size and maybe only 20mm thick, it made me think about how this is a reflection of how the economy is, and how some people now perceive printed directories. Although this is a totally different sector to the litho print services provided by Marstan Press I feel it illustrates some of the difficulties the print industry faces.
More and more companies are feeling the pinch of the economic downturn, and many wrongly decide to cut their marketing budget. What money is left often seems to be spent on online activities such as Pay per Click advertising, Search Engine Optimisation or Email Campaigns. This means that millions of pounds are no longer being spent on printing services.
Looking at the Thomsons Directory as a good example, I struggle to see who uses it that much nowadays. More and more people have internet enabled phones or iPads, and a large percentage of people have broadband internet in their homes. Does this mean printed materials are on the way out?
I don't think so, but printers and marketeers need to change the way that they use their printed materials. Print runs are being reduced, but companies are now able to take advantage of digital printing to create personalised printed marketing. Targetting consumers on a personal level like this is proven to achieve better reply rates. Companies are able to reduce their postage costs and their raw material usage by using digitally printed personalised marketing both of which can be quite considerable.
Printed items will decline, but won't disappear as people will always like the tactile nature of having something in their hands, rather than just viewing something on screen. Marketeers just need to be clever with their use of print.
More and more companies are feeling the pinch of the economic downturn, and many wrongly decide to cut their marketing budget. What money is left often seems to be spent on online activities such as Pay per Click advertising, Search Engine Optimisation or Email Campaigns. This means that millions of pounds are no longer being spent on printing services.
Looking at the Thomsons Directory as a good example, I struggle to see who uses it that much nowadays. More and more people have internet enabled phones or iPads, and a large percentage of people have broadband internet in their homes. Does this mean printed materials are on the way out?
I don't think so, but printers and marketeers need to change the way that they use their printed materials. Print runs are being reduced, but companies are now able to take advantage of digital printing to create personalised printed marketing. Targetting consumers on a personal level like this is proven to achieve better reply rates. Companies are able to reduce their postage costs and their raw material usage by using digitally printed personalised marketing both of which can be quite considerable.
Printed items will decline, but won't disappear as people will always like the tactile nature of having something in their hands, rather than just viewing something on screen. Marketeers just need to be clever with their use of print.
Fine Landscaping in Kent
Recommended
If you are looking to get your garden landscaped, then look no further. Find Fillow is a family owned landscaping company based in Kent offering both building and landscaping services. Whether the project is small or large they can help.
They carry out both commercial and domestic projects ranging from the renovation and restoration of public parks and the building and landscaping of corporate premises through to suburban private gardens and large country estates. At their disposal they have a highly experienced team and have an excellent supply of trees, shrubs and plants grown by their own Walnut Hill Nursery.
In preparation for their first showing at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show (5th -10th July 2011), they have prepared a beautifully designed leaflet which was printedby local Kent Printer Marstan Press.
If you are looking to get your garden landscaped, then look no further. Find Fillow is a family owned landscaping company based in Kent offering both building and landscaping services. Whether the project is small or large they can help.
They carry out both commercial and domestic projects ranging from the renovation and restoration of public parks and the building and landscaping of corporate premises through to suburban private gardens and large country estates. At their disposal they have a highly experienced team and have an excellent supply of trees, shrubs and plants grown by their own Walnut Hill Nursery.
In preparation for their first showing at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show (5th -10th July 2011), they have prepared a beautifully designed leaflet which was printedby local Kent Printer Marstan Press.
Get a Free iPod Nano or Nintendo Wii!
Marstan Press, a print company which provides both litho and digital printing services to clients in London, Kent and the wider UK have recently relaunched their Refer a Friend Scheme.
Formerly the scheme offered a cash incentive, however according to Sales and Marketing Director Martin Lett Jnr some organisations did not like their staff receiving a cash reward. Therefore in the relaunch, the Kent printing company is now offering either a Nintendo Wii or an iPod Nano.
To receive one of these excellent gadgets, you simply need to refer a friend, family member or colleague to use Marstan Press for either Litho Printing or Digital Printing, including wide format poster printing. The referred person just needs to spend £1500 to qualify. (doesn't have to all be in one order) If they go on to spend £10,000 you will receive a further thank you by receiving £100 worth of iTunes vouchers. To participate click here and fill out the very short form on the Marstan website.
Marstan Press is a long established company that people can trust their most important print requirements with. Whether its magazine printing or the printing or annual report and accounts, Marstan Press will produce excellent results.
Formerly the scheme offered a cash incentive, however according to Sales and Marketing Director Martin Lett Jnr some organisations did not like their staff receiving a cash reward. Therefore in the relaunch, the Kent printing company is now offering either a Nintendo Wii or an iPod Nano.
To receive one of these excellent gadgets, you simply need to refer a friend, family member or colleague to use Marstan Press for either Litho Printing or Digital Printing, including wide format poster printing. The referred person just needs to spend £1500 to qualify. (doesn't have to all be in one order) If they go on to spend £10,000 you will receive a further thank you by receiving £100 worth of iTunes vouchers. To participate click here and fill out the very short form on the Marstan website.
Marstan Press is a long established company that people can trust their most important print requirements with. Whether its magazine printing or the printing or annual report and accounts, Marstan Press will produce excellent results.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Print Term Glossary
Litho and Digital Printing is full of technical terms, which can be confusing. Below I have compiled a glossary of terms, which will hopefully be useful to you. I am keen for you to comment and add any definitions tht you feel will be beneficial to others. I'm also happy to try and give you a defintion of any other term that you're struggling to find a definition for.
A-Sizes
The most common paper sizes used for stationery, leaflets and other publications
Sizes Millimetres
A0 841x1189
A1 594x841
A2 420x594
A3 297x420
A4 210x297
A5 148x210
A6 105x148
A7 74x105
A8 52x74
A9 37x52
Art Board/Paper
A term used for coated paper, in particular gloss.
Artwork
Text, graphics and illustrations arranged individually or in any combination for subsequent printing. Artwork will normally be computer-originated, in which case it will be supplied as an electronic file. This may be the native file in a program such as Quark or InDesign or as a Hi-res PDF. Artwork may also be in the form of a full-colour drawing or picture which requires specialist reprographic colour separation. This enables the separation to be printed in the four basic printing process colours (cyan, magenta, yellow and black).
Author Amendments
Changes made by the customer, usually at the proofing stage. These are normally chargeable, as they require studio time to make the corrections and re-rip the file.
B sizes
ISO International sizes intended primarily for posters, wall charts and similar items where difference in size of the larger sheets in the A series represents too large a gap. B sizes are also used for our printing services to print B sized finished work (e.g. a B5 booklet), or a bespoke size where the job fits more economically onto a B sized sheet than an SRA sheet size.
Back Up
To print on the reverse of a sheet which has already been printed on one side
Bitmap
An image arranged accordingly to bit location in columns. Resolution of a PostScript file processed through a RIP will have a bitmap image with the characteristics and resolution of the particular output device.
Bleed
Where the image to be printed extends (usually by 3mm) over the crop marks. This makes trimming easier and means the finished documents will run to the edges, rather than having unsightly white paper showing.
Blind Emboss
A type of embossing where no ink is used. Instead, the design or text is only visible as a raised area on the paper/card. Also see debossing which has the opposite effect.
Block Foiling
Where a design is stamped into the paper/board, usually in a metallic foil.
Bond Paper
Uncoated paper often used for stationery.
Bulk
Thickness of paper measured in Microns, as opposed to the weight (see gsm)
Burst Binding (or slot binding)
A method similar to perfect binding where the text pages are glued in to the cover. In burst binding, slots are cut in to the sections to help the adhesive seep into the spine for a stronger hold. This has somewhat been superseded by PUR binding, which uses a much stronger glue and achieves similar results to Burst Binding.
C-Sizes
Paper sizes used for envelopes. These correspond to A-sizes (e.g. C4 envelope will hold A4 sheets)
C3 - 324 x 458 mm
C4 - 229 x 324 mm
C5 - 162 x 229 mm
C6 - 114 x 162 mm
DL - 110 x 220 mm (holds A4 folded twice)
CMYK
Abbreviation of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black. These make up the standard 4 colour process used for printing in full colour.
Coated Paper
Paper which has a coating on one or both sides. This can have a gloss or silk (matt) finish. Coated papers are used for the majority of printed products, but not for stationery where an uncoated (or bond) paper is used. Coated materials can have a different number of coatings. The more coatings, the better quality material is produced.
Coating
See sealing
Crease
Where a line is scored to allow for easier and tidier folding. We score any board over 171gsm, as this helps us prevent cracking on the fold.
Crop Marks
Lines marking where the paper is to be trimmed after printing. These should be set up in the artwork.
Cutting Forme (or Die or Tool)
The custom made cutter used when die-cutting printed work to a particular shape.
Debossing
Where an image is pressed or stamped into the paper creating a depression as opposed to an embossed, raised impression.
Die-cut
Where an irregular shape is cut from the paper instead of trimming square edges. This can be any shape but requires a die or cutting forme to be made up specially.
Digital Printing
Low cost method of printing best suited for short run jobs. It works directly from electronic files without the need for printing plates. This makes the process very quick and as you can make ready so quickly, prices are extremely competitive on short run printing. On 9 out of 10 jobs you may struggle to tell the difference between digital and litho work. However Digital Printing still struggles with solids, in particularly pastel colours. We have two Xeroxes and and an OCE digital press backed up by extensive finishing.
Digital Proofs
Printed digitally on our Epson 7800 wide format printers. These are suitable for checking layout and pagination and colour thanks to our GMG Colour Proofing system, which calibrates the proofs to the ISO12647-2 standard. However our proofs are printed on a satin material, and if the job is being printed on uncoated material there will be a considerable colour difference.
Blister packaging
Is the method of packaging in which an object is placed in a pre-formed, clear plastic tray and backed by a printed card.
Broadsheet
Any sheet in its basic size (not folded or cut); also denotes a newspaper size.
Contract proof
A colour, hard copy representation of the printed image, made from the electronic files which will be used to make the final printing plates. The word "contract" comes from the fact that, when signed by the client, a contract is formed, which states that the final printed job should be a close match to the contract proof. (contract proof can also mean colour accurate proof)
Desktop publishing
A generic title given to the introduction of personal computers (PC) to typesetting, page composition and image handling. The combination of all these gives electronic control within a single system of what was traditionally a specialist and segmented operation. The most common desktop publishing program is Publisher, although we still get some artwork supplied in Word and Powerpoint! For best results, a professional program such as Quark or InDesign is recommended.
Diestamping
An intaglio process of printing in which the resultant impression stands out in relief above the surface of the stamped material, either coloured (using inks) or blind (that is, without colour): relief stamping.
DL
Envelope size to hold an A4 sheet folded twice (or a compliment slip). 220 x 110mm. See C-sizes
DPI
Dots per inch, or the image resolution. For print, all images in a document should always be a minimum of 300dpi
Drawn On Covers
A paper back cover with the text pages glued in. (see perfect binding & burst binding)
Drilling
Where holes are drilled. This is essentially hole punching but on a larger scale.
Dummy
A Mock up of the finished product. This can be printed or unprinted, depending on the purpose. See proofs.
Embossing
Where designs are pressed in to the paper to leave a raised effect
Encapsulation
Where printed material is fully enclosed and sealed in plastic. This leaves a small, clear plastic border around the sheet where it is sealed. Encapsulation is durable and water resistant.
Finished Size
The size once trimmed and folded.
Flat Size
The size before folding, after trimming. Can also be used if a product is to be supplied creased but unfolded.
Folding
There are a large number of different folding options. Some common folds are:
• Simple Fold
• Concertina or Z fold
• Gate fold
• Roll fold
• Cross Fold
Four-colour process
Colour printing by means of the three subtractive primary colours (yellows, magenta, cyan) and black superimposed; the colours of the original having been separated by a photographic or electronic process.
FSC
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC.org) is an independent, non-governmental, not for profit organisation established to promote the responsible management of the world's forests. Certain paper brands are accredited by the FSC.
Full Colour
Printing in CMYK, as opposed to using spot colours.
Grain
The direction of the fibres of paper. It is easier to fold with the grain.
Gloss coated paper
These papers have a smooth surface and a high shine, perfect for producing printed promotional items e.g. flyers and leaflets
gsm
Abbreviation of grams per metre. A method of indicating the substance of paper or board (whatever the size of the paper/board or number of sheets in the package) on the basis of weight in grams per square metre.
Hot-foil
A printing technique using very thin aluminium foil in a variety of metallic colours, such as gold, silver, red and blue. The metallic foil is released from carrier base onto a substrate by the application of heat and pressure from a metal printing plate which bears the image to be hot-foiled.
Imposition
The pages of the artwork are arranged such that after printing, cutting and folding, the pages will be in the correct order. Sometimes seen when an imposition proof is supplied electronically, the pages will not be in chronological order.
Ink jet
A non-impact printing process in which droplets of ink are projected onto paper or other material, in a computer-determined pattern.
Insert
A piece of paper or card laid between the leaves of a book and not secured in anyway.
Kiss Cut
To die-cut the top layer but not the backing of a two layered sticker/label.
Laminating
Where a thin plastic film is fixed to one or both sides of the paper. This can create a silky matt or a high gloss finish, depending on the intended purpose and personal preference. It also acts as a protective barrier if the print needs to be more durable or is likely to encounter a demanding environment.
Landscape
Where a document is oriented so the long edges are at the top and bottom. As opposed to portrait.
Lithography / Lithographic (or litho printing)
The most popular print process, a metal plate is treated so that the image area attracts the oil-based inks, while the wet non-image areas resist them.
Make-ready
All work associated with setting up the print press and finishing equipment before production.
Mockup
See dummy
Origination
The files to be printed which make up the artwork. Usually a print ready PDF. (Hi-res, CMYK, 3mm bleed)
Offset printing
A lithographic method of printing in which the ink is first transferred from the image to an offset blanket and then to the stock which may be paper, card, metal or other material.
Original
The term applied to copy which is to be reproduced.
Overs
The quantity of unit production, for example, books and sheets, delivered to the customer above the net amount ordered; also allowance to cover wastage.
Page
One side of a sheet of paper. For example, an A4 sheet has 2 pages. An A4 sheet folded in half to A5 has 4 pages.
Pantone
Pantone, Pantone Matching System and PMS + are standard trademarks for colour standards, colour data, colour reproduction and colour reproduction materials, and other colour related products and services, meeting its specifications, control and quality requirements.
PDF
Portable Document Format. Universal file format which combines images and text.
Perfect Binding
Where the text is glued into the cover with a square back spine.
Perfecting
Printing the second side of a sheet on one pass; backing-up. Our 10 colour press perfects 5/5 and our 5 colour press perfects 3/2.
Portrait
Where a document is oriented so the long edges are on either side. As opposed to landscape.
PostScript
A Page Description Language (PDL) developed by Adobe, which describes the contents and layout of a page. PostScript also serves as a programming language whereby the PostScript code is executed by a PostScript RIP in the output device in order to produce a printout or film containing the page.
Proof
A version of a document or colour illustration produced specifically for the purpose of review prior to reproduction.
PMS
Pantone Matching System. Followed by 3 or 4 digits to make up a code e.g. PMS 072. See spot colours.
PP
Printed pages. Refers to the number of pages in a document e.g. 12pp (12 pages)
Quality
The totality of features and characteristics of a product or service that bear on its ability to satisfy a given need or requirement; also described as "fitness for purpose" or value for money as perceived by the customer.
Ream
500 sheets of paper.
Register
The printing of two or more plates in juxtaposition so that they complete a design if printing on the same side of the sheet or back up accurately if printed on opposite sides of the sheet.
Saddle-Stitch
Where a document is wire stitched on the spine, also known as stapled.
Saddle-wire stitching
To stitch with wire through the back of the folded work.
Screen Printing
The oldest method of printing. Ink is applied to a porous silk screen and passes through a stencil or template to leave an impression. Normally used when printing on fabric and banners and when printing on board that is too thick to pass through a standard litho print press.
Seal or Sealer
A coating applied over the print. This helps prevent set off and smudging.
Section
A folded sheet of paper forming part of a book; sections are sometimes made of insetted folded sheets of four, eight sixteen or more pages.
Self-Cover
Where the cover and text pages are on the same paper stock
Set Off
This is where the ink from one sheet is transferred on to the reverse of the sheet above. Leaving ample time for the ink to dry and applying a sealer helps to prevent this
Silk Coated Paper
Silk papers have a low surface shine, a smooth finish, but not glossy.
Sheet-fed
A sheet-fed printing press uses individual sheets, instead of continuous rolls of paper used on web offset.
Spot Colours
Refers to solid colours which are found in commercially obtainable colour ranges such as Pantone®, these are mostly used in addition to CMYK where CMYK is not available e.g. Printing gold or silver. When using Pantone colours, it is worth bearing in mind for future jobs that should you want to print in CMYK, the chosen Pantone® may not have a suitable CMYK equivalent, which may in turn lead to the expense of using additional plates .
Shrink wrap
Method of packing printed products by surrounding them with plastic, then shrinking by heat.
Side stitching
To stitch through the side from front to back at the binding edge with thread or wire. Also known as stab stitching.
Spot Gloss UV Varnish
A high gloss finish applied to specific areas of print. This differs from gloss laminating which has to cover the whole sheet.
TIFF
Tagged Image File Format, a file format for exchanging bitmapped images (usually scans)
between applications.
Tints
Mechanical shading in line areas, normally available in 5% steps from 5% to 95%.
Uncoated Paper
Paper which has not been coated, not gloss or silk
Varnishing
To apply oil, synthetic, spirit, cellulose or water varnish to printed matter by hand or machine to enhance its appearance or increase its durability.
Vignette
This term usually refers to a single dot pattern that may start at 50% dot and gradually decrease to say 5% in a smooth graduation.
Web Offset
Reel-fed offset litho printing. Three main systems of presses exist blanket-to-blanket in which two plate and two blanket cylinders per unit print and perfect the web of paper or board; three-cylinder system in which plate, blanket and impression cylinders operate in the usual manner to print one side of the paper or board; and satellite or planetary systems in which two, three or four plate and blanket cylinders are arranged around a common impression cylinders to print one side of the web in several colours.
Wet Proof
This is a fully made up, printed proof. The same machine and materials will be used as for the finished product. Whilst this is quite expensive, it does leave you with an exact mock up of what is to be printed. This is suitable for colour checking. Only recommended for large runs and specialist items.
A-Sizes
The most common paper sizes used for stationery, leaflets and other publications
Sizes Millimetres
A0 841x1189
A1 594x841
A2 420x594
A3 297x420
A4 210x297
A5 148x210
A6 105x148
A7 74x105
A8 52x74
A9 37x52
Art Board/Paper
A term used for coated paper, in particular gloss.
Artwork
Text, graphics and illustrations arranged individually or in any combination for subsequent printing. Artwork will normally be computer-originated, in which case it will be supplied as an electronic file. This may be the native file in a program such as Quark or InDesign or as a Hi-res PDF. Artwork may also be in the form of a full-colour drawing or picture which requires specialist reprographic colour separation. This enables the separation to be printed in the four basic printing process colours (cyan, magenta, yellow and black).
Author Amendments
Changes made by the customer, usually at the proofing stage. These are normally chargeable, as they require studio time to make the corrections and re-rip the file.
B sizes
ISO International sizes intended primarily for posters, wall charts and similar items where difference in size of the larger sheets in the A series represents too large a gap. B sizes are also used for our printing services to print B sized finished work (e.g. a B5 booklet), or a bespoke size where the job fits more economically onto a B sized sheet than an SRA sheet size.
Back Up
To print on the reverse of a sheet which has already been printed on one side
Bitmap
An image arranged accordingly to bit location in columns. Resolution of a PostScript file processed through a RIP will have a bitmap image with the characteristics and resolution of the particular output device.
Bleed
Where the image to be printed extends (usually by 3mm) over the crop marks. This makes trimming easier and means the finished documents will run to the edges, rather than having unsightly white paper showing.
Blind Emboss
A type of embossing where no ink is used. Instead, the design or text is only visible as a raised area on the paper/card. Also see debossing which has the opposite effect.
Block Foiling
Where a design is stamped into the paper/board, usually in a metallic foil.
Bond Paper
Uncoated paper often used for stationery.
Bulk
Thickness of paper measured in Microns, as opposed to the weight (see gsm)
Burst Binding (or slot binding)
A method similar to perfect binding where the text pages are glued in to the cover. In burst binding, slots are cut in to the sections to help the adhesive seep into the spine for a stronger hold. This has somewhat been superseded by PUR binding, which uses a much stronger glue and achieves similar results to Burst Binding.
C-Sizes
Paper sizes used for envelopes. These correspond to A-sizes (e.g. C4 envelope will hold A4 sheets)
C3 - 324 x 458 mm
C4 - 229 x 324 mm
C5 - 162 x 229 mm
C6 - 114 x 162 mm
DL - 110 x 220 mm (holds A4 folded twice)
CMYK
Abbreviation of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black. These make up the standard 4 colour process used for printing in full colour.
Coated Paper
Paper which has a coating on one or both sides. This can have a gloss or silk (matt) finish. Coated papers are used for the majority of printed products, but not for stationery where an uncoated (or bond) paper is used. Coated materials can have a different number of coatings. The more coatings, the better quality material is produced.
Coating
See sealing
Crease
Where a line is scored to allow for easier and tidier folding. We score any board over 171gsm, as this helps us prevent cracking on the fold.
Crop Marks
Lines marking where the paper is to be trimmed after printing. These should be set up in the artwork.
Cutting Forme (or Die or Tool)
The custom made cutter used when die-cutting printed work to a particular shape.
Debossing
Where an image is pressed or stamped into the paper creating a depression as opposed to an embossed, raised impression.
Die-cut
Where an irregular shape is cut from the paper instead of trimming square edges. This can be any shape but requires a die or cutting forme to be made up specially.
Digital Printing
Low cost method of printing best suited for short run jobs. It works directly from electronic files without the need for printing plates. This makes the process very quick and as you can make ready so quickly, prices are extremely competitive on short run printing. On 9 out of 10 jobs you may struggle to tell the difference between digital and litho work. However Digital Printing still struggles with solids, in particularly pastel colours. We have two Xeroxes and and an OCE digital press backed up by extensive finishing.
Digital Proofs
Printed digitally on our Epson 7800 wide format printers. These are suitable for checking layout and pagination and colour thanks to our GMG Colour Proofing system, which calibrates the proofs to the ISO12647-2 standard. However our proofs are printed on a satin material, and if the job is being printed on uncoated material there will be a considerable colour difference.
Blister packaging
Is the method of packaging in which an object is placed in a pre-formed, clear plastic tray and backed by a printed card.
Broadsheet
Any sheet in its basic size (not folded or cut); also denotes a newspaper size.
Contract proof
A colour, hard copy representation of the printed image, made from the electronic files which will be used to make the final printing plates. The word "contract" comes from the fact that, when signed by the client, a contract is formed, which states that the final printed job should be a close match to the contract proof. (contract proof can also mean colour accurate proof)
Desktop publishing
A generic title given to the introduction of personal computers (PC) to typesetting, page composition and image handling. The combination of all these gives electronic control within a single system of what was traditionally a specialist and segmented operation. The most common desktop publishing program is Publisher, although we still get some artwork supplied in Word and Powerpoint! For best results, a professional program such as Quark or InDesign is recommended.
Diestamping
An intaglio process of printing in which the resultant impression stands out in relief above the surface of the stamped material, either coloured (using inks) or blind (that is, without colour): relief stamping.
DL
Envelope size to hold an A4 sheet folded twice (or a compliment slip). 220 x 110mm. See C-sizes
DPI
Dots per inch, or the image resolution. For print, all images in a document should always be a minimum of 300dpi
Drawn On Covers
A paper back cover with the text pages glued in. (see perfect binding & burst binding)
Drilling
Where holes are drilled. This is essentially hole punching but on a larger scale.
Dummy
A Mock up of the finished product. This can be printed or unprinted, depending on the purpose. See proofs.
Embossing
Where designs are pressed in to the paper to leave a raised effect
Encapsulation
Where printed material is fully enclosed and sealed in plastic. This leaves a small, clear plastic border around the sheet where it is sealed. Encapsulation is durable and water resistant.
Finished Size
The size once trimmed and folded.
Flat Size
The size before folding, after trimming. Can also be used if a product is to be supplied creased but unfolded.
Folding
There are a large number of different folding options. Some common folds are:
• Simple Fold
• Concertina or Z fold
• Gate fold
• Roll fold
• Cross Fold
Four-colour process
Colour printing by means of the three subtractive primary colours (yellows, magenta, cyan) and black superimposed; the colours of the original having been separated by a photographic or electronic process.
FSC
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC.org) is an independent, non-governmental, not for profit organisation established to promote the responsible management of the world's forests. Certain paper brands are accredited by the FSC.
Full Colour
Printing in CMYK, as opposed to using spot colours.
Grain
The direction of the fibres of paper. It is easier to fold with the grain.
Gloss coated paper
These papers have a smooth surface and a high shine, perfect for producing printed promotional items e.g. flyers and leaflets
gsm
Abbreviation of grams per metre. A method of indicating the substance of paper or board (whatever the size of the paper/board or number of sheets in the package) on the basis of weight in grams per square metre.
Hot-foil
A printing technique using very thin aluminium foil in a variety of metallic colours, such as gold, silver, red and blue. The metallic foil is released from carrier base onto a substrate by the application of heat and pressure from a metal printing plate which bears the image to be hot-foiled.
Imposition
The pages of the artwork are arranged such that after printing, cutting and folding, the pages will be in the correct order. Sometimes seen when an imposition proof is supplied electronically, the pages will not be in chronological order.
Ink jet
A non-impact printing process in which droplets of ink are projected onto paper or other material, in a computer-determined pattern.
Insert
A piece of paper or card laid between the leaves of a book and not secured in anyway.
Kiss Cut
To die-cut the top layer but not the backing of a two layered sticker/label.
Laminating
Where a thin plastic film is fixed to one or both sides of the paper. This can create a silky matt or a high gloss finish, depending on the intended purpose and personal preference. It also acts as a protective barrier if the print needs to be more durable or is likely to encounter a demanding environment.
Landscape
Where a document is oriented so the long edges are at the top and bottom. As opposed to portrait.
Lithography / Lithographic (or litho printing)
The most popular print process, a metal plate is treated so that the image area attracts the oil-based inks, while the wet non-image areas resist them.
Make-ready
All work associated with setting up the print press and finishing equipment before production.
Mockup
See dummy
Origination
The files to be printed which make up the artwork. Usually a print ready PDF. (Hi-res, CMYK, 3mm bleed)
Offset printing
A lithographic method of printing in which the ink is first transferred from the image to an offset blanket and then to the stock which may be paper, card, metal or other material.
Original
The term applied to copy which is to be reproduced.
Overs
The quantity of unit production, for example, books and sheets, delivered to the customer above the net amount ordered; also allowance to cover wastage.
Page
One side of a sheet of paper. For example, an A4 sheet has 2 pages. An A4 sheet folded in half to A5 has 4 pages.
Pantone
Pantone, Pantone Matching System and PMS + are standard trademarks for colour standards, colour data, colour reproduction and colour reproduction materials, and other colour related products and services, meeting its specifications, control and quality requirements.
Portable Document Format. Universal file format which combines images and text.
Perfect Binding
Where the text is glued into the cover with a square back spine.
Perfecting
Printing the second side of a sheet on one pass; backing-up. Our 10 colour press perfects 5/5 and our 5 colour press perfects 3/2.
Portrait
Where a document is oriented so the long edges are on either side. As opposed to landscape.
PostScript
A Page Description Language (PDL) developed by Adobe, which describes the contents and layout of a page. PostScript also serves as a programming language whereby the PostScript code is executed by a PostScript RIP in the output device in order to produce a printout or film containing the page.
Proof
A version of a document or colour illustration produced specifically for the purpose of review prior to reproduction.
PMS
Pantone Matching System. Followed by 3 or 4 digits to make up a code e.g. PMS 072. See spot colours.
PP
Printed pages. Refers to the number of pages in a document e.g. 12pp (12 pages)
Quality
The totality of features and characteristics of a product or service that bear on its ability to satisfy a given need or requirement; also described as "fitness for purpose" or value for money as perceived by the customer.
Ream
500 sheets of paper.
Register
The printing of two or more plates in juxtaposition so that they complete a design if printing on the same side of the sheet or back up accurately if printed on opposite sides of the sheet.
Saddle-Stitch
Where a document is wire stitched on the spine, also known as stapled.
Saddle-wire stitching
To stitch with wire through the back of the folded work.
Screen Printing
The oldest method of printing. Ink is applied to a porous silk screen and passes through a stencil or template to leave an impression. Normally used when printing on fabric and banners and when printing on board that is too thick to pass through a standard litho print press.
Seal or Sealer
A coating applied over the print. This helps prevent set off and smudging.
Section
A folded sheet of paper forming part of a book; sections are sometimes made of insetted folded sheets of four, eight sixteen or more pages.
Self-Cover
Where the cover and text pages are on the same paper stock
Set Off
This is where the ink from one sheet is transferred on to the reverse of the sheet above. Leaving ample time for the ink to dry and applying a sealer helps to prevent this
Silk Coated Paper
Silk papers have a low surface shine, a smooth finish, but not glossy.
Sheet-fed
A sheet-fed printing press uses individual sheets, instead of continuous rolls of paper used on web offset.
Spot Colours
Refers to solid colours which are found in commercially obtainable colour ranges such as Pantone®, these are mostly used in addition to CMYK where CMYK is not available e.g. Printing gold or silver. When using Pantone colours, it is worth bearing in mind for future jobs that should you want to print in CMYK, the chosen Pantone® may not have a suitable CMYK equivalent, which may in turn lead to the expense of using additional plates .
Shrink wrap
Method of packing printed products by surrounding them with plastic, then shrinking by heat.
Side stitching
To stitch through the side from front to back at the binding edge with thread or wire. Also known as stab stitching.
Spot Gloss UV Varnish
A high gloss finish applied to specific areas of print. This differs from gloss laminating which has to cover the whole sheet.
TIFF
Tagged Image File Format, a file format for exchanging bitmapped images (usually scans)
between applications.
Tints
Mechanical shading in line areas, normally available in 5% steps from 5% to 95%.
Uncoated Paper
Paper which has not been coated, not gloss or silk
Varnishing
To apply oil, synthetic, spirit, cellulose or water varnish to printed matter by hand or machine to enhance its appearance or increase its durability.
Vignette
This term usually refers to a single dot pattern that may start at 50% dot and gradually decrease to say 5% in a smooth graduation.
Web Offset
Reel-fed offset litho printing. Three main systems of presses exist blanket-to-blanket in which two plate and two blanket cylinders per unit print and perfect the web of paper or board; three-cylinder system in which plate, blanket and impression cylinders operate in the usual manner to print one side of the paper or board; and satellite or planetary systems in which two, three or four plate and blanket cylinders are arranged around a common impression cylinders to print one side of the web in several colours.
Wet Proof
This is a fully made up, printed proof. The same machine and materials will be used as for the finished product. Whilst this is quite expensive, it does leave you with an exact mock up of what is to be printed. This is suitable for colour checking. Only recommended for large runs and specialist items.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Order personalised funeral stationery online
In the world of print, margins are being squeezed and it is important that we always look to diversify our product range and find new markets. Marstan Press is a family owned company, offering both litho print services and digital printing. Thanks to a recent investment in a 'web-to-print' system we have now launched a website allowing people to order personalised funeral stationery online.
The site called www.fondfarewellfuneralstaionery.co.uk allows users to select a product from our templates and personlise them with their own words and pictures. Funeral order of service printing forms a large part of what we produce, however we do offer other items such as Memorial Cards, Commemorative Posters and Mugs and Acknowledgement Cards.
All items are printed digitally with quick turnrounds. We also offer a bespoke design service where our skilled designers can create a custom set of stationery for your loved one.
The site called www.fondfarewellfuneralstaionery.co.uk allows users to select a product from our templates and personlise them with their own words and pictures. Funeral order of service printing forms a large part of what we produce, however we do offer other items such as Memorial Cards, Commemorative Posters and Mugs and Acknowledgement Cards.
All items are printed digitally with quick turnrounds. We also offer a bespoke design service where our skilled designers can create a custom set of stationery for your loved one.
How should I set up my artwork ready for printing?
As a litho and digital printing company, we come across artwork files set up in all sorts of programs including InDesign, Quark, Publisher and even Word!
For the best results you should ideally use a professional program such as Quark or Indesign with all images set up as CMYK and not RGB. 3mm bleed should be added and a hi-res PDF created. It is important that the fonts are either embedded or outlined, which will prevent them corrupting when they are processed through the printer's rip. It is also best to set the file up as single pages, rather than printer's spreads.
At Marstan Press we provide quality print services for clients across Kent, London and the wider UK. If you are interested in extending your printing knowledge, we run a free monthly print induction day.
For the best results you should ideally use a professional program such as Quark or Indesign with all images set up as CMYK and not RGB. 3mm bleed should be added and a hi-res PDF created. It is important that the fonts are either embedded or outlined, which will prevent them corrupting when they are processed through the printer's rip. It is also best to set the file up as single pages, rather than printer's spreads.
At Marstan Press we provide quality print services for clients across Kent, London and the wider UK. If you are interested in extending your printing knowledge, we run a free monthly print induction day.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Marstan recommend 'Green Business' during the economic downturn
Simple changes throughout any business in increasing recycling or energy efficiency, will have immediate benefits to profitability and the environment. The Commercial Print industry overall has made significant progress in reducing chemicals in the production process.
Being more energy efficient and environmentally friendly has been at the centre of our company ethos for many years. Within our Litho Print we use Chemical free plate making, we also use recycling methods during our production process. Over the last four years we have introduced Hybrid vehicles into the company fleet, which increases efficiency and reduces costs.
Are you looking for a Digital Printing company that doesn't cost the earth? Get a quote for your print services with Marstan Press.
Fantasy Football League Winner presented with Real Madrid shirt
Martin Rayfield of Motorsport Vision is the mid-season winner of the Marstan Press Fantasy Football League. Martin is a designer at Motorsport Vision, a Commercial Printing client of Marstan Press. Upon winning the competition, Martin chose the Real Madrid Home shirt as his prize, along with a meal for two at one of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants.
Martin was presented with his prize, by our Managing Director, Martin Lett. Marstan Press provide print services to Motorsport Vision and print a range of items for them throughout the year, including their prestigious Fixtures Guide which requires printing of the highest quality.
At Marstan Press we produce every aspect of your print production, in-house with exceptional quality and colour consistency. We have in excess of fifty years print industry experience, if you require Litho Printing for large volume printing or Digital Print for large format, short-run or personalised printing - our dedicated print services team can help.
Contact us for Commercial Printing Quote for your business.
At Marstan Press we produce every aspect of your print production, in-house with exceptional quality and colour consistency. We have in excess of fifty years print industry experience, if you require Litho Printing for large volume printing or Digital Print for large format, short-run or personalised printing - our dedicated print services team can help.
Contact us for Commercial Printing Quote for your business.
Marstan Press Invest in HP 3200Z for wide format digital printing
Marstan Press have completed the purchase of a HP 3200Z from Graphic Print Technologies. The 44” wide format digital printer replaces an Epson 9000 and produces high quality posters, the new device is able to match 95% of Pantone colours thanks to its expanded colour gamut.
The HP printer can print up to a 1000mm width and is ideal for large poster printing including A0, A1 and A2 sizes. The HP 3200Z is also capable of canvas printing and roller banner printing.
The HP 3200Z was chosen as its inks are light fast and it has an inbuilt spectrophotometer, which allows for easy colour calibration for excellent colour reproduction. This latest investment in digital printing equipment, is part of our continued commitment to colour consistency and excellence in all aspects of our print production.
Get a Digital Printing Quote from Marstan, our print services team will deliver your job in-budget and on-time.
The HP printer can print up to a 1000mm width and is ideal for large poster printing including A0, A1 and A2 sizes. The HP 3200Z is also capable of canvas printing and roller banner printing.
The HP 3200Z was chosen as its inks are light fast and it has an inbuilt spectrophotometer, which allows for easy colour calibration for excellent colour reproduction. This latest investment in digital printing equipment, is part of our continued commitment to colour consistency and excellence in all aspects of our print production.
Get a Digital Printing Quote from Marstan, our print services team will deliver your job in-budget and on-time.
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