Introduction to Custom Printing

Custom printing services are as varied as the types of printing you are looking for. Custom printing services expand your options beyond the postcard, flyer or brochure. Look to a custom print shop to get special jobs done.

Specialty print shops

The screen printing shop is a type of specialty printer that is especially popular for printing on fabric. Shops that specialize in this type of work don’t usually do much work on paper. There are some exceptions though. Where fine detail isn’t a factor and you are seeking something unique with a quality handmade feel, silk screen printing may be just what you need.

Some companies specialize in printing books. Their facilities will include sheet-fed offset presses and a book bindery. Different binding options may be offered—hardcover, perfect, saddleback, or punch and bind.

A hardcover binding will consist of many smaller sections stitched together, that are then bound together, often to an open-weaved fabric. These sections are then bound or glued into a hard cover. Perfect binding involves gluing all the pages into a cover made of a cover stock. Saddleback binding involves stapling or stitching the book together through the center. This is the type of binding you find in many magazines. Punch and bind matches its description. The paper is punched along one edge and bound together with a plastic or wire spine. Occasionally a three or five-ring binder may be used instead. Most book printers offer proof-reading and editing services for an additional fee.

Others printers specialize in giclée art prints. Their facilities revolve around specialized inkjet printers that use museum-quality archival inks. They are able to print on watercolor paper and canvas so the art work is replicated almost perfectly. Giclée is rapidly replacing lithography as the method of choice for creating limited editions. The quality of the reproduction is unparalleled. An artist can add paint right on top of the giclée print and personalize the work if desired.

Some companies specialize in printing on pens, pencils, cups, and other promotional items. These items continue to be a good way to promote a company. They let people know you exist.

There are even companies that specialize in printing toilet paper. While this might not be a great promotional idea for a lawyer, it could be a neat item for a septic pumping company, or a gag gift for a friend.

Custom Printing Q&A

How do I find the right custom printer?

The internet is a great place to start. Most websites tell you a lot about a company. A professional site is important.

If a company only works locally, they may only have a one-page site. Don’t discount that company unless their site looks sloppy. If they are in your local area, give them a call. Are they professional and helpful? Do you get the feeling they are only in it for the money, or do they seem ready to meet your needs?

If a company provides online service, their website will give you clues into their reliability. Do the links work on the site? Are they easy to contact? Is the copy readable? Is the site informative? If you make an inquiry, do they get back to you promptly (allow two days over the weekend)? If the custom printer passes these preliminary screens, then move on to evaluating cost, quality of materials, etc.

If you’re in the market for printing things like brochures, postcards, business cards, and related items, try our printing price search here at PrintingChoice.com to find the best prices for your custom print job today. We only select the top custom printing companies on the web for you to choose from.

Summary

No matter what type of printing job you have in mind, there is a custom printer that can do the job for you. With the internet, your options have expanded. Now you don’t have to hope there is a custom printer for your type of job in your location. Custom printing is as close as an internet search.