Printing methods that we use

A lot of you would probably like to know why there are differing prices in printing invitations. In this post, we'd try our best to give you an easy-to-understand explanation, and if you're still in doubt, do give us a call -- 62203044.

At Cardblanche, we strive to give you the highest quality printing, on lovely textured papers or shimmery card stock. As many of these papers are thick, we cannot use a regular laser or inkjet printer to print on them. The method we most prefer to use is known as offset printing. In offset printing, invitation card designs are sent off to professional printers to be printed on the textured or shimmer papers. Offset printing is similar to the type of printing you see in books or magazines, which is one of the highest standards of printing today. However, because the machines used are pretty big and run many copies by the minute, a minimum of 100 cards are required. More time is also needed as the printed cards need time to dry before cutting and/or folding.

What if you don't meet the minimum number of cards required? The answer is to rely on digital printing. Digital printing is a process where a much smaller machine capable of handling one piece at a time is used. At Cardblanche, we offer two types of digital printing. The first is the laser printer, which prints quickly on demand, and the finish is usually glossy in nature. However, because of the machine's paper restrictions, only smooth papers can be used, and they cannot be very thick as the machine can be jammed.

The other, more superior type of digital printing we use is similar to offset printing. In this method, shimmer, textured or smooth card stock can be used. The outcome is sharp, clear and vibrant, and the process is also faster than offset printing. For both types of digital printing, a minimum of 20 pieces is required. However, because of the small quantities, we will need to manually trim the cards so more labour costs are involved. There is also the limitation of colours in digital printing. With offset printing, special inks are used so bright colours like fuchsia, orange and lime green are achievable. In digital printing, colours are mixed via CMYK inks and thus, very bright colours are not possible.

Whether you're considering offset printing, laser, or digital printing, do make an appointment with us to see the samples we have of each method, so that you can make a more discerning decision.