Question
What are the best practices for choosing between different types of printing?
Answer
Picking a printing method comes down to two numbers first: how many pieces you need and when you need them. Quantity and deadline point you toward offset or digital, and then file setup keeps the result clean regardless of method.
- High volume (5,000+): offset usually wins on per-piece cost once plates are made.
- Short runs (under 1,000): digital skips setup fees and turns around faster.
- Files: submit CMYK at 300 DPI with proper bleed to avoid color and trimming surprises.
- Always proof: approve a proof before the full run, especially on color-critical work.
- Multi-format jobs: keep one color profile across every file so paired pieces match.
| Quantity | Method | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1,000 | Digital | No plate cost, fast, personalization |
| 5,000+ | Offset | Lowest cost per piece, tight color control |
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