• A basic reference guide to help you understand the key terms used in printed materials and large format productions.

🖨️ General Print Terminology

• • • CMYK – Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key (Black): The color model used for print. Different from RGB, which is used for screens.
      
    • DPI – Dots Per Inch: The resolution of a printed image.
      (Higher DPI = sharper print; 300 DPI is standard for quality print materials)
    • Bleed – The extra space around the edges of a design that is cut off after printing. Usually 3-5 mm.
      (Prevents white borders after trimming)
    • Trim Size – The final dimensions of your printed product after cutting.
    • Safe Area – The zone within the trim where all important text and visuals should stay to avoid being cut off.
    • Crop Marks – Small lines placed in the corners of a print file to indicate where to cut.
    • Vector File – A graphic that can be resized without losing quality (usually .AI, .EPS, .SVG).
    • Raster File – An image made of pixels (e.g., .JPG, .PNG), which can lose quality when resized.
    • Pantone (PMS) – Pantone Matching System: A standardized color system for exact color matching, often used in logos and branding.

📄 Common Print Products

• • • Flyer – A single-sheet handout for events or promotions.
    • Brochure – A folded print piece, often used to present services or products.
    • Business Card – A small card with your contact details, logo, and branding.
    • Poster – A printed visual for indoor or outdoor display.
    • Booklet – A small multi-page printed document, often bound with staples (saddle-stitched).
    • Roll-Up Banner – A portable vertical banner for events or receptions.

📐 Paper & Material Options

• • • GSM – Grams per Square Meter: The thickness of paper.
      (Example: 150gsm = thin flyer, 350gsm = thick business card)
    • Coated Paper – Glossy or matte finish; smooth and good for vibrant colors.
    • Uncoated Paper – More natural feel, often used for writing or eco-friendly look.
    • Matte Finish – A non-glossy, elegant surface.
    • Gloss Finish – A shiny, reflective surface.
    • UV Coating – A high-gloss layer applied to highlight parts of the design.
    • Lamination – A plastic layer applied to protect the print.
      (Available in matte, gloss, or soft-touch)

🏢 Large Format & Outdoor Printing

• • • Billboard – A large outdoor advertising board, often printed in sections.
    • Mesh Banner – A perforated material used for outdoor banners; allows wind to pass through.
    • PVC Banner – A solid, weather-resistant banner material.
    • Foamex – A lightweight plastic board for signs and displays, used for indoor or short-term outdoor use.
    • Acrylic Print – High-end signage with polished finish, used for indoor branding or decoration.
    • Vinyl Cut Lettering – Custom-cut adhesive letters for windows, walls, or cars.
    • One-Way Vision – A window graphic that allows people to see out from the inside but not in from the outside.
    • Backlit Film – A material used for signs that are lit from behind (lightboxes).

⚙️ Print Production Process

• • • Proof – A test version of the file to approve before full production.
    • Print Run – The total number of copies being printed.
    • Offset Printing – High-volume printing method with superior color accuracy, ideal for large quantities.
    • Digital Printing – Faster and more cost-effective for short runs.
    • Die-Cut – A custom shape cut out of the paper or material.
    • Embossing / Debossing – Raised (embossed) or recessed (debossed) effects on paper for texture and style.
    • Spot UV – Gloss coating applied only to specific areas for contrast and shine.