PRINT FAQ
FAQ
Everything you need to know before starting your print project.
Whether you’re ordering business cards, brochures, packaging, or large format graphics, we’ve answered our most common questions below.
File Preparation
Proper file setup helps ensure your project prints exactly as you envision. Here are answers to common file and design questions.
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We accept print-ready PDF, Adobe Illustrator (AI), Adobe InDesign (INDD), Adobe Photoshop (PSD), EPS, and high resolution JPG or PNG files. A print-ready PDF is the preferred format because it preserves your fonts, images, colours, and layout exactly as intended.
If your artwork was created in Canva, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint a supporting PDF is re or another design program, we can often work with those files as well. If your files require any adjustments before printing, we'll review everything and let you know exactly what is needed before production begins.
You don't need to be a print expert. Simply send us what you have, and we'll help ensure your project is prepared correctly.
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A print-ready PDF is the preferred file format for professional printing because it contains all the information needed to reproduce your artwork accurately. It helps preserve fonts, images, colours, page size, and layout while reducing the chance of unexpected printing issues.
A properly prepared PDF typically includes high resolution images, the correct page size, bleed where required, and embedded or outlined fonts.
If you're unsure how to create a print-ready PDF, don't worry. Send us your artwork in its original format and we'll review it before printing. If anything needs to be adjusted, we'll take care of it or explain the options available.
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Yes. We regularly print artwork created in Canva.
For the best results, we recommend exporting your design as a PDF Print with crop marks and bleed enabled, along with the highest quality image setting. This helps ensure sharp graphics, accurate trimming, and professional print quality.
If you're unsure which export settings to use, simply send us your Canva file or exported PDF. We'll review it and make sure it's suitable for commercial printing before your order goes into production.
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Bleed is a small area of extra artwork that extends beyond the finished trim size of your printed piece. It helps prevent unwanted white edges after the paper is cut.
Most commercial printing projects require a bleed of 0.125 inches on all sides. Background colours, images, and graphics that extend to the edge of your design should continue into this bleed area.
If your artwork doesn't include bleed, don't worry. In many cases we can add it or recommend the best solution before printing.
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RGB and CMYK are two different colour systems. RGB is used for digital screens such as computers, tablets, and smartphones, while CMYK is used for commercial printing.
Because printed ink and digital screens reproduce colour differently, some bright colours visible on your monitor cannot be matched exactly in print.
Whenever possible, artwork should be designed in CMYK for the most predictable results. If your file is in RGB, we'll review it and let you know whether colour conversion is recommended before production.
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For professional printing, images should be at least 300 DPI at their final printed size. Higher resolution images produce sharper photographs, cleaner graphics, and better overall print quality.
Images downloaded from websites or social media are often designed for screens and may not be suitable for printing at larger sizes.
If you're unsure whether your images are high enough quality, simply send them to us. We'll check everything before printing and let you know if improvements are recommended.
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To ensure your design prints exactly as intended, fonts should either be embedded within the PDF or converted to outlines before printing.
If the printer does not have the same font installed, the software may replace it with another font, changing the appearance of your artwork.
If you're providing a PDF, embedded fonts are usually sufficient. If you're sending original design files, we can review them and advise whether any font adjustments are required.
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Absolutely. We review every file before production and can often correct common artwork issues.
Some of the most common problems include low resolution images, missing bleed, incorrect page size, RGB colours, missing fonts, and spacing that is too close to the trim edge.
Some adjustments are quick and simple, while more extensive changes may require additional design work. If that's the case, we'll explain what needs to be done, why it's important, and provide a quote before making any changes.
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Don't worry. Many of our clients are business owners, marketers, and organizations rather than professional designers.
If your artwork isn't ready for print, we'll review it before production and explain any issues we find in plain language. Whenever possible, we'll make the necessary adjustments or recommend the best solution to ensure your finished product looks professional.
Our goal is to make the printing process simple while helping you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary delays.
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In most cases, no. Images found through Google Search are often protected by copyright and are usually too low in resolution for professional printing.
If you need high quality images, we can recommend licensed stock photography or help source appropriate visuals for your project. Using properly licensed, high resolution images helps ensure your printed materials look professional while respecting copyright laws.
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Crop marks are small lines placed outside your artwork that indicate where the finished piece will be trimmed after printing. They help ensure accurate cutting, especially for business cards, brochures, postcards, and other printed materials that include bleed.
Many design programs can automatically add crop marks when exporting a print-ready PDF. If you're not sure whether your file includes them, don't worry. We'll review your artwork and prepare it correctly before production if needed.
Helpful Tip
Not sure if your artwork meets these specifications? That's perfectly okay.
Most of our clients are experts in running their business, not preparing files for commercial printing. Send us the files you have, and we'll review everything before production. If any changes are needed, we'll explain them clearly and help you get your project ready for print.
Ordering & Timeline
Ordering professional printing should be straightforward. Whether you have print-ready artwork or need help from start to finish, we'll guide you through the process and keep you informed every step of the way. Every project is different, so we'll always confirm timelines, pricing, and specifications before production begins.
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Most standard print projects are completed within 5 to 7 business days after your artwork has been approved. Some products can be produced more quickly, while specialty materials, custom finishes, or large quantity orders may require additional production time.
When you request a quote, we'll provide an estimated turnaround based on your specific project. If you have a deadline for an event, trade show, product launch, or marketing campaign, let us know as early as possible. We'll recommend the best production schedule and advise whether rush printing is available.
Our goal is always to deliver your project on time without compromising quality.
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Yes. Rush printing is available for many products, depending on the type of project, production schedules, and material availability.
If you have a tight deadline, contact us before placing your order. We'll review your timeline and let you know what is possible. In some cases, alternative materials or finishes may help meet your deadline while still producing a professional result.
Whenever possible, we will recommend the fastest and most practical solution for your project.
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Getting started is easy.
Simply contact us with a description of your project, including the type of product, quantity, preferred size, and any deadlines you may have. If you already have artwork prepared, send it along with your request. If you don't have artwork yet, we can help with the design as well.
We'll review your project, answer any questions, provide a detailed quote, and recommend the best options based on your goals and budget.
Once you approve the quote and artwork, production begins.|
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The more information you provide, the more accurate your quote will be.
Helpful details include:
Product type
Finished size
Quantity
Single or double sided printing
Paper or material preference
Any special finishes
Required delivery date
Whether you already have artwork or need design assistance
Don't worry if you don't know all of these details. Tell us what you're trying to achieve, and we'll help determine the best specifications for your project.
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Yes. Many of our products are available in smaller quantities, making it easy to review the finished product before committing to a larger order.
Minimum quantities vary depending on the product and production method. If you're unsure what makes the most sense, we'll recommend an option that balances quality, flexibility, and cost.
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Absolutely.
If we've printed your project before, we can often reorder it quickly using your existing artwork and specifications. This helps maintain consistency across future print runs while saving time.
If your information has changed, such as contact details, pricing, or branding, we can update your files before reprinting.
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Once a proof has been approved and production has started, changes are usually no longer possible.
That's why we encourage you to carefully review your proof for spelling, contact information, colours, quantities, and layout before giving final approval.
If you notice an issue before production begins, let us know immediately. We'll do everything we can to make the necessary adjustments.
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Yes. We offer delivery throughout the Greater Toronto Area and select surrounding communities for an additional fee. Delivery costs vary depending on the size of your order and the destination.
If you're unsure whether we deliver to your location, simply let us know where you're located and we'll confirm availability and provide a delivery estimate as part of your quote.
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Absolutely.
Every print project is different, and sometimes a quick conversation is the easiest way to determine the best solution.
We're happy to answer questions about materials, finishes, quantities, design, file preparation, or timelines before you commit to anything. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision and ensure your project is set up for success from the beginning.
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Once we receive your request, we'll review your project and contact you if we need any additional information.
You'll receive a detailed quote outlining the recommended specifications, pricing, and estimated turnaround time. If your artwork needs adjustments before printing, we'll explain what is required and discuss the available options.
Once everything has been approved, production begins. Throughout the process, we're available to answer questions and keep you informed until your order is complete.
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Absolutely, and this is one of the reasons many clients choose to work with us.
You don't need to know paper weights, finishes, bleed, or production methods before contacting us. Simply tell us what you're creating, how it will be used, and your budget or timeline. We'll recommend the best solution based on your goals.
Whether you're ordering business cards, brochures, packaging, signage, or promotional materials, we're here to guide you through the process and make professional printing simple.
Helpful Tip
You don't need all the answers before requesting a quote. If you're unsure about quantities, materials, finishes, or print specifications, we'll walk you through your options and recommend the best solution for your project. That's part of the service we provide.
Materials & Finishes
The right paper, material, and finish can make a big difference in how your printed piece looks and feels. Whether you're creating business cards, brochures, postcards, packaging, or signage, we'll help you choose the options that best suit your goals, budget, and brand. If you're unsure what you need, we're happy to make recommendations based on your project.
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We offer a wide variety of paper stocks and materials to suit everything from everyday marketing pieces to premium branded products. Options include standard text and cover stocks, premium cardstock, recycled papers, synthetic materials, and specialty substrates.
The best choice depends on how your printed piece will be used. A brochure may benefit from a lighter coated stock, while a business card or presentation folder often looks and feels more professional on a heavier premium cardstock.
If you're not sure which paper is right for your project, we'll recommend the most suitable option based on your goals, budget, and intended use.
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Matte and gloss are two of the most popular print finishes, each creating a different look and feel.
A matte finish offers a smooth, non-reflective appearance that feels modern and professional. It reduces glare and is often preferred for corporate materials, luxury brands, and pieces with a lot of text.
A gloss finish reflects more light, making colours appear brighter and photographs more vibrant. It's a popular choice for postcards, brochures, menus, and marketing materials that rely on bold imagery.
If you're unsure which finish is best, we'll recommend the option that complements your design and the way your printed piece will be used.
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Soft touch lamination is a premium finish that gives printed pieces a smooth, velvety texture while adding durability and protection.
It is commonly used for business cards, presentation folders, book covers, and luxury marketing materials because it creates a sophisticated appearance and feels distinctive in your hands.
Soft touch lamination can also be combined with finishes like Spot UV or foil to create striking visual contrast and enhance important design elements.
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Spot UV is a clear, glossy coating applied to specific areas of a printed piece to create contrast and draw attention to selected design elements.
It is often used to highlight logos, text, patterns, or photographs while the rest of the piece remains matte or soft touch. This creates a premium look that adds depth without changing the printed colours.
Spot UV is a popular finish for business cards, presentation folders, postcards, packaging, and marketing materials where you want to leave a lasting impression.
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Spot Clear Dry Ink is a premium clear coating that adds gloss, texture, and dimension to selected areas of your printed piece, helping logos, text, patterns, and images stand out. Like traditional Spot UV, it creates eye-catching contrast and a high-end finish, but it can be produced much more efficiently for shorter print runs.
Using our Xerox Proficio PX300 Digital Press, we're able to apply Spot Clear Dry Ink inline during the printing process. This eliminates many of the extra production steps associated with traditional Spot UV, making it possible to produce premium finishes on shorter runs with faster turnaround times and without the high setup costs typically associated with specialty finishing.
Spot Clear Dry Ink is an excellent choice for:
Business cards
Postcards
Brochures
Booklets
Presentation folders
Invitations
Packaging
Marketing materials
Short-run promotional pieces
If you're looking to create a premium printed piece but don't need thousands of copies, Spot Clear Dry Ink offers an affordable way to add impact and make your materials stand out.
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The ideal paper weight depends on the type of product you're printing and the impression you want to create.
Flyers and brochures often use lighter stocks that are easy to distribute and fold, while business cards, postcards, and presentation folders generally benefit from heavier materials that feel more substantial.
Rather than choosing based on numbers alone, tell us how your printed piece will be used and we'll recommend the most appropriate stock for your project.
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Yes. Certain products can be printed on synthetic or specialty materials designed to resist water, moisture, and tearing.
These materials are commonly used for menus, outdoor signage, identification cards, instruction sheets, tags, and other applications where durability is important.
We'll recommend the most appropriate material based on where and how your printed piece will be used.
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In addition to standard matte and gloss finishes, we offer a variety of premium finishing options that help your printed materials stand out.
Depending on your project, available options may include:
Soft touch lamination
Spot UV
Foil stamping
Embossing and debossing
Die cutting
Rounded corners
Folding and scoring
Perfect binding
Saddle stitching
Wire and coil binding
Not every finish is suitable for every project. We'll explain the advantages of each option and recommend the best combination for your budget and design.
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Absolutely.
Many of our clients know what they want to achieve but aren't sure which paper, finish, or production method is best. That's where our experience makes the difference.
Tell us about your project, who it's for, and the impression you want to make. We'll recommend materials and finishes that fit your goals without overspending on features you may not need.
Our role is to make the decision easier by explaining your options in plain language.
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Coated paper has a smooth surface that enhances colour, image sharpness, and overall print quality. It is commonly available in gloss, satin, or matte finishes and is ideal for brochures, postcards, magazines, and marketing materials.
Uncoated paper has a more natural texture and is easier to write on, making it a popular choice for letterhead, notepads, envelopes, forms, and stationery.
The right choice depends on the purpose of your printed piece. If you're unsure, we'll recommend the option that best suits your project and your brand.
Helpful Tip
The most expensive paper isn't always the best choice. The right material depends on how your printed piece will be used, who will receive it, and the impression you want to create. If you're unsure, tell us about your project and we'll recommend the option that delivers the best value and the best results.
Pricing & Costs
Every print project is unique, which is why we provide customized quotes rather than one-size-fits-all pricing. Factors such as quantity, size, paper stock, finishing options, and turnaround time all influence the final cost. We'll explain your options clearly and help you find the right solution for your budget without compromising quality.
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The cost of printing depends on several factors, including the type of product, quantity, finished size, paper or material, printing method, specialty finishes, and delivery requirements. Because every project is different, we provide personalized quotes to ensure you're only paying for what you need.
Whether you're printing business cards, brochures, booklets, signage, packaging, or promotional materials, we'll recommend the most cost-effective solution based on your goals and budget.
If you're unsure where to start, simply tell us about your project and we'll guide you through the available options.
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Unlike many online print providers, we don't believe every project fits into a standard template.
Two brochures may look identical but have completely different pricing depending on the paper stock, folding, quantity, finishing, or delivery requirements. Rather than providing generic pricing that may not apply to your project, we prepare a customized quote based on your specific needs.
This allows us to recommend the best combination of quality, value, and turnaround time while avoiding unnecessary costs.
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Several factors influence the final price of a print project, including:
Quantity
Finished size
Paper stock or material
Single or double sided printing
Colour or black and white printing
Specialty finishes such as Spot Clear Dry Ink, foil, or lamination
Folding, binding, or other finishing services
Delivery requirements
Production timeline
We'll explain each option and help you determine which features add value and which may not be necessary for your project.
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Most standard digital print projects do not require setup fees when print-ready artwork is supplied.
If your project requires graphic design, artwork revisions, file preparation, or extensive prepress work, we'll discuss those costs with you before any work begins. We believe in transparent pricing, so you'll always know what's included in your quote.
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In most cases, yes.
Many printing processes become more economical as quantities increase because production costs are spread across a larger number of pieces. This often reduces the cost per item.
When preparing your quote, we'll often provide pricing for multiple quantities so you can compare your options and choose the best value for your project.
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Absolutely.
Every project has different priorities. Some clients are focused on premium finishes and luxury presentation, while others are looking for the most cost-effective solution.
Tell us your budget, and we'll recommend materials, quantities, and finishing options that help you achieve the best possible result without overspending.
Our goal is to maximize value, not simply increase your order.
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Yes.
Many businesses benefit from ordering larger quantities or reordering the same materials over time. Depending on the project, volume pricing and repeat orders may offer additional savings and greater production efficiency.
If you're ordering for multiple locations, recurring events, or ongoing marketing campaigns, let us know and we'll discuss the most economical approach.
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Our quotes are designed to be clear and easy to understand.
Depending on your project, your quote may include:
Printing
Paper or material
Standard finishing
Specialty finishes
File review
Production
Delivery (if requested)
If any additional design work or artwork preparation is required, we'll discuss it with you before proceeding.
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Professional printing creates a stronger first impression, improves brand credibility, and helps your marketing materials stand out.
From premium business cards and brochures to signage and packaging, professionally produced materials communicate quality and attention to detail. Choosing the right materials and finishes can make a lasting impression on customers and help reinforce your brand.
We'll help you select the options that provide the greatest value for your investment.
Helpful Tip
The lowest price isn't always the best value. Choosing the right paper, finish, or quantity can often have a greater impact on the success of your project than simply selecting the least expensive option. We'll help you find the right balance between quality, performance, and budget.
Quality & Colour
Professional printing is about more than putting ink on paper. It's about producing consistent, high-quality results that represent your brand with confidence. Every project is reviewed before production, and we're here to help ensure your printed materials look their best from the first proof to the finished product.
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It's normal for printed colours to look different from what you see on a computer monitor, tablet, or phone. Screens display colour using light (RGB), while printing uses ink (CMYK). Because these colour systems work differently, some colours cannot be reproduced exactly.
Screen brightness, monitor calibration, and device settings can also affect how colours appear.
If colour accuracy is important, we'll review your artwork, discuss your expectations, and recommend the best approach before printing. Our goal is to produce colours that are consistent, professional, and representative of your brand.
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Yes. If your business has established brand colours, we'll work to reproduce them as accurately and consistently as possible.
If you have Pantone (PMS), CMYK, RGB, or HEX colour values, please include them with your artwork. This gives us the best starting point for achieving consistent colour across your printed materials.
It's important to understand that commercial printing is a manufacturing process, and slight colour variation is considered normal throughout the printing industry. Factors such as paper stock, coating, finishing, and the printing method can all influence the final appearance. For CMYK digital printing, a small colour variation is generally considered acceptable within industry manufacturing tolerances, typically around 5% to 7%.
If precise colour reproduction is critical, such as for corporate branding or colour-sensitive projects, let us know before production begins. We'll discuss the most appropriate printing method, proofing options, and colour management process to help achieve the best possible results.
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Yes.
A digital proof is provided for approval before your project goes into production. This allows you to review your artwork for spelling, layout, contact information, image placement, and overall appearance.
Please review your proof carefully, as it represents the final version that will be printed. Once approved, production begins.
If you have any questions during the proofing process, we're happy to review the artwork with you before moving forward.
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For some projects, yes.
If colour, material, or finish is especially important, we can discuss proofing options before full production. Depending on the project, this may include printed samples, material swatches, or a short test run.
We'll recommend the most practical option based on your project, budget, and timeline.
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Pantone colours, also known as PMS colours, are standardized colour references used to achieve consistent brand colours across different print projects.
Many digital printing projects are produced using CMYK, which provides excellent results for most applications. If your project requires a specific Pantone colour, let us know and we'll recommend the most appropriate printing method.
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Yes.
The paper stock you choose has a noticeable impact on how colours appear when printed.
Gloss and coated papers typically produce brighter, more vibrant colours, while matte and uncoated papers create a softer, more natural appearance.
Paper colour, texture, and finish all influence the final result. If you're unsure which stock is best, we'll recommend one that complements your design and helps achieve the look you're after.
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Every project goes through a quality review before production begins.
We check artwork for file issues, image quality, page size, bleed, margins, fonts, and other details that could affect the final result. During production, we work with trusted equipment and proven workflows to maintain consistent quality.
Before your order is delivered, we inspect the finished product to ensure it meets our quality standards.
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Customer satisfaction is important to us.
If you believe there's an issue with your printed order, contact us as soon as possible. We'll review the situation, determine the cause, and work with you to find an appropriate solution.
Our goal is to ensure you receive printed materials you're proud to represent your business.
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The best print results begin with properly prepared artwork, high resolution images, and choosing the right materials for your project.
If you're unsure about any part of the process, don't worry. We'll review your files, recommend appropriate paper stocks and finishes, and explain any improvements that may help produce a better result.
Professional printing is a collaborative process, and we're here to help every step of the way.
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Yes.
Consistent colour reproduction begins with properly maintained and calibrated equipment. Regular calibration helps ensure colours remain accurate and consistent from one print run to the next.
While some variation is normal between different printing methods and materials, colour management is an important part of our production process and helps us deliver reliable, professional results.
Helpful Tip
The best way to achieve consistent print quality is to involve your printer early in the process. If you're designing a brochure, business card, booklet, or packaging, we're happy to answer questions before your artwork is finalized. A quick conversation early on can prevent delays, improve colour accuracy, and help you avoid costly revisions later.
Working with
Pixel Plus Solutions
Printing is only one part of a successful project. Whether you already have finished artwork or need help developing an idea from scratch, we're here to guide you through the process. From graphic design and file preparation to print production and delivery, our goal is to make the experience simple, collaborative, and stress free.
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Not at all.
Many of our clients come to us with nothing more than an idea. Whether you need help creating a new design, updating existing artwork, or simply deciding which product is right for your business, we're happy to guide you through the process.
If you already have print-ready artwork, we'll review it before production. If you need design assistance, we can take your project from concept to completion, ensuring it's prepared correctly for professional printing.
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Absolutely.
One of the biggest advantages of working with Pixel Plus Solutions is that we provide both professional graphic design and commercial printing under one roof.
By managing both stages of the project, we can ensure your artwork is designed specifically for print, helping to avoid production issues while creating a consistent, professional result.
Whether you need business cards, brochures, packaging, signage, marketing materials, or custom print solutions, we can manage the entire process from concept to delivery.
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Working with one company saves time, reduces communication issues, and helps prevent costly mistakes.
Because we understand both design and print production, we prepare artwork with the final product in mind. That means fewer surprises, better colour consistency, proper file preparation, and a smoother overall experience.
Instead of coordinating between multiple suppliers, you'll have one point of contact from the initial concept through to the finished printed product.
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es.
Whether your artwork was created by another designer, downloaded from Canva, or designed years ago, we'll review it to determine whether it's suitable for professional printing.
If improvements are needed, we'll explain what they are and discuss the best solution before production begins.
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Absolutely.
Many clients come to us with brochures, flyers, business cards, presentation folders, or signage that simply need updated contact information, refreshed branding, or new content.
Rather than starting from scratch, we can often update your existing files, saving both time and money while maintaining a consistent brand.
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Yes.
You don't need to know the difference between coated and uncoated paper, digital and offset printing, or which finish is best for your project.
Tell us what you're creating, who it's for, and the impression you want to make. We'll recommend the most suitable materials, finishes, and production methods based on your goals, timeline, and budget.
Helping clients make informed decisions is an important part of the service we provide.
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Absolutely.
We're happy to work with professionally designed artwork as well as files created by marketing teams, agencies, freelancers, or in-house designers.
Before printing, we'll review your files to ensure they meet the necessary specifications. If we identify any issues that could affect the final result, we'll discuss them with you and recommend the best solution.
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We work with businesses, organizations, schools, municipalities, non-profit organizations, restaurants, healthcare providers, contractors, retailers, manufacturers, and many other industries.
Whether you're ordering a small quantity of business cards or managing a large marketing campaign with multiple printed products, we tailor our recommendations to meet your specific needs.
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Yes.
Many of our clients rely on us as their long-term print and design partner. Once your artwork is established, we can manage future reprints, updates, seasonal campaigns, new marketing materials, and additional print projects as your business grows.
Our goal is to provide consistent quality, reliable service, and a trusted point of contact whenever you need professional printing.
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Choosing a printing partner is about more than comparing prices. It's about working with someone who understands your goals, communicates clearly, and cares about the final result.
With more than 20 years of experience in graphic design, commercial printing, and print management, we help businesses create professional marketing materials that make a lasting impression. From file preparation and colour management to selecting the right paper, finishes, and production methods, we're here to make the process simple and deliver results you can be proud of.
Whether you have a finished design or just an idea, we'll guide you through every step of the project.
Helpful Tip
You don't have to know everything before contacting us. Whether you're unsure about artwork, quantities, paper stocks, finishes, or even which product best suits your needs, we're here to help. Our role is to simplify the process, answer your questions, and ensure you receive printed materials that represent your business professionally.
Still Have Questions?
Every print project is unique, and sometimes the quickest way to get the right answer is to have a conversation.
Whether you need help preparing artwork, choosing materials, comparing finishing options, or planning a new project, we're here to help. No question is too small, and there's no obligation to place an order.
Ready to get started?