Printing seems like a simple task, but you may make many simple errors that slow the process. Unfortunately, some of us forget to check for these errors, such as printing in black-and-white when we mean to select a color. Delve into the common printing mistakes you can easily avoid keeping your business moving efficiently.
Printing Despite Errors
Before printing a written document, read through it to search for spelling or grammatical errors. For example, let’s say you print 20 flyers on glossy paper for your business. After making all these prints, you realize you misspelled a word or misplaced a comma. Using these flyers is out of the question since the mistakes will reflect poorly on your brand reputation. You also just wasted 20 sheets of glossy paper.
Examining designs is as important as searching for language errors on a document. If you need to create a blueprint for a new building, ensure you’ve noted all the key areas, such as doors and bathrooms. Have a coworker review your work like you would with a written document.
Reviewing Tip
Review the document once yourself, then have a coworker do the same. Sometimes, we don’t catch errors in our own work because our brain fills in the information that should be there. Likewise, you may forget to place key elements of a design. Partner up with a coworker so that you can review for one another.
Not Reviewing the Color
Whether the document is in color or black and white, check the setting on your computer before verifying the print. If you have an image that should print in black and white, accidentally selecting color can be a significant issue. Large, colored images require a lot of ink, and you don’t want to waste your business assets on simple mistakes.
Printing at the Wrong Resolution
Always check the document’s resolution, specifically if it includes an image or other type of graphic. If the resolution is 72 DPI or lower, it may appear blurry. Instead, aim for 300 DPI to achieve a crisp image. You can view this information by right-clicking on the file, selecting Properties, then Details. The information is under the Image section of the details—listed as horizontal resolution and vertical resolution.
Forgetting to Check Boarders
Not checking the border is another common printing mistake to avoid. Verify the dimensions of the finished product and compare it to what’s on the screen. The software you work in may have larger margins than what you’ll print, which means the printing process could cut off pieces of the image. Likewise, you don’t want text or other design elements right at the edge of the paper—this doesn’t look good. Usually, you should have at least 5mm around the document as a border.
Using the Wrong Paper
Finally, open your printer’s paper tray and verify that the appropriate option is inside. Some projects required glossy, bonded paper, but others needed unbonded. Don’t risk wasting your time and money.
Buy Quality Paper
Shop at Plotter Paper Guys for 24 lb. coated bond paper. We have everything you need to print quality papers, graphics, and other media. Trust the format experts as you purchase your printer paper and ink cartridges.
