Before placing any order, ask yourself: What exactly are you printing, and why? A bunch of flyers for a local event won’t need the same paper or finish as a set of wedding invitations. Knowing the purpose helps you make better choices about materials, sizes, and finishes—so you don’t end up spending more than you need to.
Most printing providers offer different paper weights and textures for a reason. Thicker cardstock can make your business cards feel more premium, while a matte finish might be best if you want people to write on them. And don’t forget about color—what looks good on screen doesn’t always translate perfectly to paper.
Don’t Skip the Proofing Stage
You’d be surprised how many people hit “submit” on an order without checking the final version. A small typo or color mismatch can ruin an entire print job. Always ask for a proof—even a digital one—before going ahead. This extra step gives you a chance to catch layout issues, misaligned elements, or anything that just feels off.
If possible, print a sample at home on your own printer. Even if the quality isn’t the same, it’ll help you spot obvious issues with spacing, font size, or general layout.
Pay Attention to File Types and Formatting
One of the easiest ways to delay a print job is by sending the wrong type of file. Most printing services will ask for PDFs with embedded fonts and high-resolution images. If you’re working with a designer, make sure they’re providing print-ready files, not just something pulled from Canva or PowerPoint.
You’ll also want to check bleed settings. If your design goes all the way to the edge of the paper, it needs to extend beyond the trim line to avoid white borders. This little detail makes a big difference in how polished your final product looks.
Ask Questions If You’re Not Sure
Not everyone is a print expert—and you don’t have to be. Reputable providers are happy to answer questions before you commit. If you’re unsure about paper stock, turnaround times, or whether your file is ready to print, just ask. It’s better to get clarification than to assume and be disappointed later.
Sometimes it’s even worth talking to someone in person if the order is large or important. Many find that a quick conversation saves time and stress down the track.
Think Beyond Just the Price
It’s easy to go straight for the cheapest option, especially if you’re printing in bulk. But low cost doesn’t always mean good value. Look at reviews, turnaround times, and whether they charge extra for things like proofing or design tweaks.
If you’re ordering something that represents your brand—like signage, product packaging, or brochures—cutting corners might hurt more than it helps. Instead, try looking for reliable printing services for small runs or personalized jobs that give you better control over quality without blowing the budget.
Know When to Go Digital Instead
Not every project needs to hit paper. In fact, digital alternatives are sometimes the smarter choice. Got a last-minute event announcement? Social media or email newsletters might be faster and more effective than printed posters. Even menus, loyalty cards, or brochures can be digitized with QR codes or app-based tools.
It’s all about matching the method to the message. If you still want the tactile experience of print, go for it—but don’t ignore digital just because you’re used to doing things the old way.
Watch Out for These Common Mistakes
Some pitfalls show up over and over again. Small text that’s hard to read. Logos that get blurry when resized. Choosing glossy paper for something that needs to be written on. These mistakes are easy to avoid once you’re aware of them.
Another big one? Not leaving enough time. Rush jobs often cost more and leave less room for review or correction. Try to plan ahead, especially during busy periods like holidays or the start of a school year.
Get Creative—But Stay Practical
There’s no shortage of ways to make your print materials stand out. Foil stamping, die cuts, embossing—they all add flair. But make sure it fits the purpose. A bold design can grab attention, but it shouldn’t make the piece harder to read or use.
Need inspiration? Spend some time browsing design galleries or checking out how to make a business card stand out. Sometimes the best ideas come from seeing what others are doing, then putting your own spin on it.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to printing, the best results usually come down to preparation. A bit of planning, asking the right questions, and paying attention to details can save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re printing something simple or going all-out with a creative project, make sure it works for you—not just the printer.
