tips and tricks Archives - Cascade Print Media

Choosing the Right Image for Your Print Job

Marketing, Print Marketing, Signs, Tips and Tricks

How will you know if the logo image you have placed on your business card file is going to print clearly, rather than blurred or grainy around the edges?

The first thing you can check is the DPI, or Dots Per Inch. This is a measurement of how tightly the printer lays down ink in a 1 inch square. With a high DPI, details are sharp and colors are rich in contrast. 300 DPI is considered the standard for most print jobs, but can be higher the larger the format is.

Resolution also plays a major role in how well an image will appear in print. This is the pixel dimensions of an image on-screen. The closer it is in size to your project’s cut size, the more accurately it will print. It is always better to start with a large image and scale it down for print than it is to start with a small image and blow it up for print!

When choosing an image file type for your print job, there are many factors at play! Should it be a .jpeg or .png? Whether it’s a logo, photograph, or other digital asset, our team of experts can help you make a selection tailored to your specific print needs.

Learn More

(253) 472-5500

3321 South Lawrence St.
Tacoma, WA 98409

info@cascadeprintmedia.com

Bleeds – What To Know About Bleeds In Printing

FAQ, Marketing, New, Tips and Tricks

If you’ve been looking at having goods printed or have dabbled as a graphic designer you’ve likely seen the term “bleed.” But what exactly is bleed and why is it essential for quality prints?

What Does Bleed Mean in Printing?

In printing, “bleed” refers to the area that extends beyond the trim edge of the piece. This extra area helps ensure that no unprinted edges appear on the final piece accommodating for any slight movement of the paper during the trimming operation. Cascade Print Media recommends 1/8^th of an inch or 3mm around all sides to every art file.

Benefits of Adding Bleeds

Adding bleeds to your designs offer several advantages:

Prevents White Edges: Even with quality industrial cutting machines the paper can shift slightly during the trimming cuts. Bleeds help ensure the graphic extends beyond the edge which avoids unsightly white edges on printed pieces.

Professional Finish: Bleeds help provide a high-quality look to your printed pieces.

Consistency: It maintains the integrity of the art across multiple prints. Helps ensure that each piece looks identical even if there are slight variations in the trimming process.

How to Create Bleed in Your Design

1: Setup Your Document With Bleeds

When creating a new document set the bleed area ahead of time. Most design tools such as InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop have options for setting and adding bleeds.

2: Extend the Background

Ensure that any background images, colors or patterns extend into the bleed area at the edges. This ensures those elements will still reach the edge when the paper is trimmed.

3: Keep Important Elements Inside the Safe Zone

While ensuring that the background extends into the bleed area also ensures that all critical elements stay within the safe zone. This is an area usually about ¼” of an inch inside that trim line. This prevents them from being accidentally trimmed off or into. Cascade Print Media also recommends avoiding using thin borders in this area as the natural trim variations will be more noticeable the thinner the border.

4: Use Guides

Most modern design software will allow you to see and add visual guides. Use the guides to accurately position the design elements.

5: Export with Bleed Enabled

When you’re ready to save and export your final file, ensure the bleed settings are included. Most software will include an option to “include bleed” in the export settings. This step is crucial to ensure the printer knows to account for bleeds when trimming down the stock. Bleed from Canva is added via file > view settings > show print bleed. If exporting as a PDF file type ensure “crop marks and bleeds” are selected.

Adding bleeds to your designs is a simple but crucial step to ensure high-quality and professional looking prints. By understanding and applying bleed correctly you can elevate the quality of your pieces and avoid common pitfalls such as white edges or inconsistent borders.

Ready to get started on your next project, but don't know where to start? We can help! Get in touch and we will walk you through the process!

Learn More

(253) 472-5500

3321 South Lawrence St.
Tacoma, WA 98409

info@cascadeprintmedia.com

Print In Your Marketing Plan

Direct Mail, Eco-Friendly, FAQ, Marketing, Print Marketing, Promotional Products, Signs

Creative Ways to Use Print in Your Marketing Plan

In today’s digital-first world, incorporating print into your marketing strategy is a powerful way to stand out. Tangible, eye-catching, and versatile, printed materials can leave a lasting impression on your audience. Here are some creative ideas to effectively use print in your marketing plan.

Stickers for Brand Awareness

Stickers are small but mighty tools for spreading brand recognition. They’re affordable, versatile, and loved by customers. Include your logo, a catchy slogan, or fun designs that align with your brand. Use them as giveaways, packaging seals, or incentives for social media shares.

Pro Tip: Create limited-edition sticker sets to drive excitement and engagement.

Calendars for Year-Round Visibility

Custom calendars ensure your brand stays front and center all year. Include important industry dates, your promotional events, or helpful tips relevant to your audience. Calendars are especially effective as corporate gifts or customer appreciation items.

Pro Tip: Add QR codes linking to your website or digital resources for a modern touch.

Promotional Products with Practicality

Branded notebooks, pens, water bottles, and tote bags are not just giveaways—they’re functional items that keep your brand in sight. Distribute them at trade shows, conferences, or community events.

Pro Tip: Choose high-quality products that reflect the value of your brand to create a positive association.

Branded Apparel for Walking Advertisements

T-shirts, hats, and hoodies with your logo or creative designs turn customers and employees into brand ambassadors. Branded apparel is perfect for giveaways, contests, or employee uniforms. Check out our post here about the power of promotional products

Pro Tip: Use bold designs that make people excited to wear your apparel beyond promotional events.

Banners and Signs for Event Marketing

Large banners and signs are essential for trade shows, community events, or storefront promotions. They grab attention and provide vital information at a glance.

Pro Tip: Use weather-resistant materials for outdoor events and keep your message clear and concise for maximum impact.

Postcards for Direct Marketing

Postcards are a cost-effective way to deliver targeted messages. Use them to announce events, highlight promotions, or share updates. Their compact size makes them easy for recipients to read and keep.

Pro Tip: Add an exclusive discount code or invitation to drive customer action. Ask us about our mailing discounts!

Direct Mail Campaigns for a Personal Touch

Despite the rise of digital marketing, direct mail remains one of the most effective ways to connect with customers. Personalize your mailings to make a stronger impact and ensure your brand stands out in a crowded mailbox.

Pro Tip: Combine direct mail with digital campaigns by including URLs or QR codes to track engagement.

Brochures for Detailed Information

Brochures are excellent for showcasing your products or services in detail. Use them at trade shows, in-store displays, or as inserts in mail campaigns. High-quality design and professional printing ensure they leave a lasting impression.

Pro Tip: Make your brochures interactive by including fold-out sections or augmented reality features.

Posters for High-Impact Messaging

Posters are perfect for promoting events, sales, or new product launches in high-traffic areas. Bold visuals and concise messaging make them an attention-grabbing medium for local or in-store marketing.

Pro Tip: Use double-sided posters to maximize exposure in glass windows or hanging displays.

Custom Packaging to Delight Customers

Turn your packaging into a marketing tool by incorporating custom designs. Branded boxes, tissue paper, and thank-you cards enhance the unboxing experience and foster brand loyalty.

Pro Tip: Include small print items like stickers or postcards in your packaging to surprise and delight customers.

Why Print Works in Marketing

Print materials create a tactile connection that digital marketing can’t replicate. They build trust, reinforce brand identity, and provide long-lasting visibility. By incorporating these ideas into your marketing plan, you can engage your audience in creative and impactful ways.

Ready to amplify your marketing efforts with print? Contact us today to bring these ideas to life!

Learn More

(253) 472-5500

3321 South Lawrence St.
Tacoma, WA 98409

info@cascadeprintmedia.com

Digital vs. Offset Printing: What is the Difference?

FAQ, New, Print Marketing

When it comes to printing, choosing the right method can make all the difference in quality, cost, and turnaround time. Two of the most common techniques—digital printing and offset printing—each have unique advantages and are suited to different types of projects. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the key differences and decide which is best for your needs.

What Is Digital Printing?

Digital printing is a modern method where images are printed directly from a digital file to the substrate (paper, cardstock, etc.), similar to how a home or office printer works. It’s ideal for smaller runs and projects that require quick turnaround.

Advantages of Digital Printing:

Speed: Because there’s no need for setup like creating printing plates, digital printing is faster, making it perfect for tight deadlines.
Cost-Effective for Small Runs: Without setup costs, digital printing is more economical for small quantities.
Variable Data Printing: Digital printing allows for customization, such as personalizing each printed piece with unique names, addresses, or images.
On-Demand Printing: Projects can be printed in smaller batches, reducing waste and inventory costs.

What Is Offset Printing?

Offset printing is a traditional method that uses printing plates to transfer ink onto a rubber blanket and then onto the paper. It’s ideal for large runs and projects that demand the highest quality.

Advantages of Offset Printing:

Superior Quality: Offset printing delivers crisp, vibrant, and precise results, particularly for detailed designs and large areas of solid color.
Cost-Effective for Large Runs: While setup costs are higher, the per-unit cost decreases significantly with volume, making it a more economical option for large quantities.
Wide Range of Materials: Offset printing can handle a broader range of paper types, weights, and finishes, offering more creative options.
Color Accuracy: The use of Pantone colors and precise ink control ensures consistent, high-quality results.

Comparing Digital and Offset Printing

Feature	Digital Printing	Offset Printing
Setup Time	Minimal	Longer
Cost for Small Runs	More affordable	Higher due to setup costs
Cost for Large Runs	More expensive per unit	More cost-effective per unit
Turnaround Time	Faster	Slower due to setup and drying times
Customization	Ideal for variable data and personalization	Limited to fixed designs
Material Options	Limited	Wide variety
Print Quality	Excellent for most needs, but less precise in details	Exceptional, especially for complex designs

When to Choose Each Method

Digital Printing:
- Short runs (usually under 500 copies)
- Personalized or variable data projects
- Tight deadlines
Offset Printing:
- Large quantities (usually around 1,000+ copies)
- Projects requiring Pantone color matching
- High-end marketing materials, like brochures and catalogs

The Best of Both Worlds

Some projects might even combine both methods to maximize benefits. For example, offset printing could be used for the main run of a project, with digital printing handling customized components.

Whether you’re printing business cards, flyers, or a large-scale catalog, understanding the difference between digital and offset printing ensures your project gets the attention it deserves.

Have a printing project in mind? Contact us today to determine which method is right for you!

Learn More

(253) 472-5500

3321 South Lawrence St.
Tacoma, WA 98409

info@cascadeprintmedia.com

5 Benefits of Print Marketing

Eco-Friendly, Marketing, New, Print Marketing

Are you looking to expand your marketing efforts and maximize your ROI? Print marketing is an effective way to reach potential customers and drive conversions. While digital marketing is an important part of any successful marketing strategy, print marketing can be a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes.

Here are five benefits of print marketing that you should consider for your next campaign:

Print Marketing is Tangible:

In today’s digital world, it can be easy to forget about the power of print marketing. But tangible materials, like postcards, brochures, catalogs and flyers, can create a lasting impression with potential customers. They also provide a physical connection to your business, which is something that digital marketing can’t.

Print Marketing is Targeted:

Print marketing allows you to target specific audiences, which is critical for any successful marketing campaign. You can target specific geographic areas, demographics, or interests with precision and accuracy. This allows you to create a more personalized message that resonates with your target audience.

Print Marketing is Cost-Effective:

Print marketing is one of the most cost-effective ways to reach potential customers. Compared to other types of marketing, it’s relatively inexpensive, which makes it a great option for small businesses and startups. Plus, you can track the effectiveness of your print marketing campaigns using metrics like response rates and conversions.

Print Marketing is Versatile:

Print marketing is incredibly versatile, which means that you can use it in a variety of ways. You can use it to create awareness, drive sales, or even launch a new product. You can also use it to reinforce your brand identity and create a stronger connection with your customers.

Print Marketing is Measurable:

Another great benefit of print marketing is that it’s measurable. You can track the effectiveness of your print campaigns using metrics like response rates, conversion rates, and ROI. This allows you to identify what’s working and what’s not so that you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

Print marketing can be a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes. It’s cost-effective, targeted, and measurable, which makes it a great option for any marketing strategy. So if you’re looking to expand your marketing efforts and maximize your ROI, consider adding print marketing to your strategy.

Contact Us Today!

(253) 472-5500

3321 South Lawrence St.
Tacoma, WA 98409

info@cascadeprintmedia.com

Choosing the Right Image for Your Print Job

Bleeds – What To Know About Bleeds In Printing

Print In Your Marketing Plan

Creative Ways to Use Print in Your Marketing Plan

In today’s digital-first world, incorporating print into your marketing strategy is a powerful way to stand out. Tangible, eye-catching, and versatile, printed materials can leave a lasting impression on your audience. Here are some creative ideas to effectively use print in your marketing plan.

Stickers for Brand Awareness

Calendars for Year-Round Visibility

Promotional Products with Practicality

Branded Apparel for Walking Advertisements

Banners and Signs for Event Marketing

Postcards for Direct Marketing

Direct Mail Campaigns for a Personal Touch

Brochures for Detailed Information

Posters for High-Impact Messaging

Custom Packaging to Delight Customers

Why Print Works in Marketing

Print materials create a tactile connection that digital marketing can’t replicate. They build trust, reinforce brand identity, and provide long-lasting visibility. By incorporating these ideas into your marketing plan, you can engage your audience in creative and impactful ways.

Ready to amplify your marketing efforts with print? Contact us today to bring these ideas to life!

Digital vs. Offset Printing: What is the Difference?

Have a printing project in mind? Contact us today to determine which method is right for you!

5 Benefits of Print Marketing

Here are five benefits of print marketing that you should consider for your next campaign:

Print Marketing is Tangible:

Print Marketing is Targeted:

Print Marketing is Cost-Effective:

Print Marketing is Versatile:

Print Marketing is Measurable:

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