3 Quick Tips For Getting Print Delivered On Time

1). It sounds simple but check you have the full delivery address (including postcode, telephone number and contact name if possible). Most of the overnight couriers use postcodes these days, so if your shipment is important and time crucial, it’s worth spending the time double checking it’s correct. These can be can be verified for free online at www.royalmail.com/postcodes4free Make sure the address label is securely fixed to the package/s and include a return address, just in case!

2). Use suitable packaging. If you want your shipment to arrive in one piece use sturdy corrugated boxes (minimum of double walled) of the correct size and weight for the content and use bubble wrap. Cramming something into the wrong sized box will end in tears as the box will either split from being overfilled or damage the goods if they are rattling around in a part filled box. Ensure these are securely fixed and sealed with packaging tape.

3). Use the correct courier for the size of the job. We use several different overnight carriers depending on the size of the shipment, we wouldn’t necessarily send an envelope containing a printing proof out with the same company that we would use to send 6 boxes or a pallet. It’s a competitive market use it to your advantage.

p.s. Much to my colleagues disapproval I always try and re-use packaging, it’s good for the environment and saves on costs. It may not look smart, but what does that matter as long as the content is received in perfect condition!

How to achieve a dense black - Litho printing

How to achieve a dense black? 
Many contemporary designs use large areas of solid dark colours. Black solid areas in particular, have a tendency to look dull or washed out when printed in 4 colour process, especially on uncoated and matte paper finishes. Generally speaking this is because the black ink used in CMYK (litho process), is less dense, than that used in a single colour 'black only' job.

"The best way to 'achieve a dense black' is by using an underpin; it isn't as complicated to set up as some people may think."

The solution is an 'underpin'
An underpin works by boosting the black's density with a neutral colour underneath; but without creating an overly large amount of ink on the sheet.  For a designer, or an artworker, the easiest option is to create a 'special black' for the areas they want to appear dense and dark. 

A 'special black'? 
The 'special black' needs to contain the underpin colour and can be easily created in most design packages.  The most commonly used underpin is a 40% tint of Cyan. So our custom black needs to be created as a 4 colour process colour with a 4 colour break down of: 40% Cyan, 0% Magenta, 0% Yellow, and 100% Black. See below for a visual

Advantages! 

For an easy way to create a dense black, the use of a 'special black' colour works brilliantly.  The main advantage of this method, is to keep the normal process black colour available for any type used in the design (which would look messy with an underpin). 

Also, this technique is the most widely used, and litho printers are generally comfortable printing files which use the special black method.