Printing FAQs in Cape Town
Things to know about printing

What details do I need to supply for a quote?
Please specify: colours, size, quantity, paper type/weight as well as any other features you may require such as number of pages, and finishing options.

What is print bleed and how much bleed is necessary?
It's best to make your design a little bigger than the final size it will be cut to. This means that when the blade cuts the stack of paper it will have a little bit of play on the edges. We usually add at least 3 mm bleed to be safe, so that there are no white edges if the blade is out by a mm or so.

What is trim size?
The trim size is the size that the document will be once it is cut, so if you are designing an A4 brochure, the document will be 216mmX303mm with bleed, but will be trimmed to A4.

How far away from the edges should I design to?
We recommend that you design no closer then 5 mm to the edge to be safe.

What are pantone colours?
Pantone colours are pre-mixed colours that you can choose from on a chart. This allows you to choose your logo colour and make sure it is always the same no matter when you print. Pantone colours can only be printed accurately on litho printing.

Digital vs litho, what are the benefits?
Digital printing on short runs can be more cost effective and less time consuming. Litho printing has the benefit of being cheaper on large runs and the option of printing pantone colours for accuracy.

How long does printing take?
Digital printing on short runs can be same day service, however it will depend on the size of the order and the required finishing options. Litho printing takes longer as the setup process involved is more time consuming. Most basic jobs can be completed in 3 -5 working days.

If you are unsure how to design or do layout, then download one of the templates below for the size that you need: