3 Reasons To Plan Your Print In Advance

We get it - sometimes, print projects pop up unexpectedly. Maybe it’s a last-minute event that catches you off guard, or you realise you’re down to your last business card… Life happens! 

At Bell Graphics, we’re always here to help with urgent requests. But let us tell you a little secret…

The best print projects happen when you plan ahead. By planning your project out in advance you can save yourself time, money, and a whole load of stress. Here’s how it works.

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Reason 1: More Time = Less Stress (and Better Results)

When you plan ahead, you give yourself the luxury of time. This allows you to refine your design until it matches your vision. Whether it's tweaking the text size, adjusting colours or rethinking imagery, this extra time enables you to focus on creating that high-quality print you’re after.
Rushing through a print project, although sometimes necessary, can lead to costly mistakes. Without enough time for meticulous proofreading, typos and inconsistencies can easily slip into your copy. 

Taking your time in the planning stages of your print project creates a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. You’ll have time to review the design, proofread carefully, communicate effectively with your printer and ensure the final product meets your expectations.

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Reason 2: More Options And Flexibility

Planning in advance opens up a world of creative possibilities. With more time on your hands, you can dig into finessing your design and explore things like premium finishes. Ever considered adding embossing, foil stamping or Spot UV treating your printed product? These techniques can take your product to the next level and make your materials stand out.

When you’re short on time, your options are often limited to what’s immediately available. However, when you give yourself more time in the planning stages, you can dream big! Custom sizes and unique folds, intricate designs and speciality papers can all be used to enhance your design and aid a professional, smooth execution.

The bottom line is that planning ensures there’s no rush, no limits and no stress - just a print project that looks great and leaves a lasting impression. 

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Reason 3: Save Money (And Maybe Even The Planet!)

Planning ahead saves more than just time. By giving yourself space to consider every aspect of your project, you can also save money. 

Rush jobs often come with additional costs, such as expedited shipping, causing you to exceed your budget.

Advance planning also has the potential to reduce your carbon footprint because you can explore more sustainable options like recycled paper stock or eco-friendly printing methods. Not only does this reduce waste, but it ups your green credentials and boosts your brand. 

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How Long Should I Allow For Planning Print?

So, now you know why you should plan your print projects in plenty of time. But how long do you realistically need to allow for? The answer depends on the nature of your project, but here are some basic guidelines to help you out.

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Artwork Creation

Creating the artwork for your project can vary wildly in timescale depending on the level of detail and the complexity of the design. Allow plenty of time for this stage, including one or two days extra for unexpected delays.

Here are our top tips to ensure the process runs smoothly…

• Have your text ready to go. This includes writing and proofreading all copy.
• Prepare high-quality images. Ensure they are high-res, in the right format and that you have permission to use them.
• Supply your designer with your brand guidelines. These should provide clear guidance on fonts, colours and logos.
• Send existing designs and inspiration to help communicate designs and styles you like.

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Print Turnaround Times

The time it takes from sign-off to delivery of your products varies depending on the complexity and size of the design as well as the size of your order. Let’s run through Bell Graphics’ typical turnaround times for common products using standard Uncoated, Silk and Gloss finish papers:

• Flyers, business cards, posters, and letterheads: 3–4 working days.
• Booklets and brochures: 5–7 working days.
• NCR notepads and purchase order pads: 7–10 working days.
• Sheet labels: 3–4 working days.

These turnaround times are estimates, so it’s advisable to add a day or two for unforeseen circumstances. 

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Get Ahead With Print Planning

Print projects don’t have to be stressful. To avoid last-minute project scrambles that cost you time, money and sanity, plan ahead!

With a little forethought, you can take time to explore your options and unlock better results, resulting in impressive-looking products that reflect your vision. What’s more, you’re more likely to remain within budget, and your project will have a smaller environmental impact. 

Looking for help executing your wonderful print project ideas? Bell Graphics are here to support you every step of the way - whether you’re planning ahead or working to a strict deadline. Get in touch today for project success.

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