Articles Index

Use Less Durable Binding Methods

Not all binding methods cost the same.

Kick Off the Covers to Save Money

Covers add to the finished costs. To save money, use a binding method that doesn't require covers or uses less expensive covers.

Case Binding is Used for Hard Cover Books

Case binding is used for hardback books and is generally the most expensive but most durable type of binding available.

Ring Binding is Good for Frequently Updated Publications

Common types and best uses for ring binding.

Comb, Coil, and Wire Binding Provide Inexpensive Lay Flat Binding

Comb, coil, and wire binding use strips of plastic or wire that passes through a series of holes to bind together a stack of paper.

Saddle-Stitched Binding is Common for Booklets

Whether stitched with thread or with staples, saddle-stitching is a common binding method for booklets, calendars, and similiar documents.

Thermal Binding Uses Heat to Provide a Sturdy, Neat Binding

Tape and velo binding use heat to secure the binding.

Use a Binding Method That Doesn't Require Extra Steps

The more steps involved in finishing a print project, the greater the cost. Choose a binding method that doesn't add too much cost to the finishing.

Use Standard Folds in Your Designs

Hand-folding can cost extra. Stick with standard machine folds offered by your printer.

Use Common Diecuts

Many printers often have standard dies on hand for common diecuts.

Use Heavier Paper to Look More Important

Paper weight and thickness may have little or no noticable effect on printed image quality; however, heavier feel more substantial and can lend visual weight to a project.

Use a Lighter Weight Paper

Paper money saving tips

Use Paper Sheets Efficiently

Put more on the page or use a smaller sheet of paper to save money and avoid waste.

Use Smaller Sheets of Paper

Save money on paper.

Use Standard Paper Sizes

Some papers provide faster print turnarounds

Avoid Designs with Bleeds

Designs that bleed off the edge of the page result in more paper waste.

Save Money on Printing Plates

Paper printing plates can save money - when used at the appropriate times.

Simple Guidelines for Graphic Design, Desktop Publishing, and Word Processing

Sometimes you don't need to read the whole book. Here are some easy to miss but good to know tips found buried in various articles on this site. Organized by general topic.

Use Standard Inks

Monday morning blues might save time and money

Use Imposition to Save Money on Color Printing

Reduce the cost of four-color process printing

Use Imposition to Add a Third Color Economically

Reduce the cost of adding a third color to a job

Design With Printing in Mind

Save time and money by planning for printing before and while working on a design.

Uh Oh. We Have a Problem.

Paper money-saving tips

Software Tips

These aren't hard-and-fast rules or formulas but they are tried-and-true guidelines that hold true most of the time when using word processing or desktop publishing software.

Newsletter Tips

If you're looking for some quick ideas on creating or improving a newsletter layout, consider these tips.