People have often made the mistake of choosing the cheapest printer blindly without considering how they can get the best quality for the least money. These tips can help save you from the same mistake and the disastrous results which, in then end, cost more.

1. Communicate clearly with your graphic designer about your budget. Your graphic designer has probably designed everything from $20 per piece (high-end brochures) to 50 cent flyers, and they have years of experience working with printers. They will know how to cut cost without cutting quality. You don’t have to settle for a template look because you think that is all you can afford. Get a unique, impacting design that will wow your customers and stay within budget.
2. Use Stock Dies. One of the easiest tricks your graphic designer can share with you is using stock dies. A custom die-cut can dramatically improve the look of your piece, but they can cost you several hundred dollars. Most printers have hundreds of dies that they have used for other clients in stock and are willing to help you find one to suit your needs.
3. Compare apples to apples. Not all printing quotes are equal. Ask questions! Write an RFP (request for proposal) that includes specifics. What is the finished size of the piece? Should they use digital or offset printing? If it’s offset, how many colors? Which colors (some are cheaper than others)? Do you need specific Pantone colors? What type of paper? Is there a bleed? Do you need anything special like a die cut or binding? In short – know what you are asking for. If you don’t know, ask your graphic designer. They can give you specifics to provide to your printer.
4. Consider Digital. Digital printing has come a long way! The quality of digital printing is great and almost indistinguishable from offset in most cases. However, digital is not right for every project. Ask your graphic designer or printer for help deciding if it is right for your project.
5. Don’t forget to ask your printer! If you are ordering a small run, ask if they have leftover paper from a larger run that they can offer at discount. You might also ask if their in-stock house paper is right for your project. They buy this paper in large quantities and it is generally less expensive. If you are ordering a large run, ask them to talk to their distributor to see if they are offering any discounts. Swapping presses or adding your project onto a gang run with other projects using the same inks and paper can be another way to save money! Printers are a great resource! Ask for their ideas on saving money. They are usually more than willing to help.