Here are all the common terms used in the printing industry. Familiarize yourself with these term so it’s easier to understand and navigate this website and the printing world!
Bleed
Process of printing to the edge. While there is a standard 1/4″ white space margin on finished product, a bleed may be applied to print all the way to the edge. To properly do this, we require the design to extend 1/2″ beyond the desired finished product.
CMYK
Abbreviation for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (black). CYMK is the the color model used in most digital printing instead of RGB, which is the standard model for displaying colors on a monitor. This is why it’s important to design your print files in CMYK Mode.
Collate
To assemble in numerical or logical order. If you are printing a 3 page document, then collate together would result in the desired number of copies as a group of three pages, instead of all copies of page 1, stacked on all copies of page 2, stocked on all copies of page 3.
DPI
Abbreviation for dots per inch. While web images and graphics are presented at 72dpi, it’s best to design print files at a minimum resolution of 300dpi.
Gloss
Coating applied to give paper a shiny appearance. Generally best for visual graphics or photos.
Matte
Dull and flat finish; without a shine. Text is generally easier to read on a matte finish.
Pixel
A single point in a graphic image.
RGB
Color model that uses light of three primary colors, red, green, and blue, to produce visual results. RGB is the color model used for monitors. This is why it’s best to design your print documents and graphics in CMYK mode for accurate results.
UV Coating
High gloss that is applied to paper after the printing process and then cured with UV radiation. This coating generally results in more shine and protection.
Vector
Image constructed using mathematical formulas rather than individual colored blocks, such as EPS, AI and PDF file types, excellent for creating graphics that frequently require resizing. Vectors are commonly used for creating logos, illustrations and print layouts.
Z-Fold
Zigzag fold for a brochure. May also be referred to as an accordion fold.
