WHAT A BUSINESS NEEDS TO DO BEFORE DOING COMMERCIAL PRINTING?

What a business needs to do before commercial printing

When a business sends a print request to a commercial printer, it will save them time and money if they know what they want the final product to look like. They should consult with their printing company beforehand so the print firm can understand exactly what the client wants and also their budget - a good print firm will help a company to find the right product at the right price. While any business can do their own printing in-house there are times when a professional is necessary, due to large quantities or detailed work.
Before sending items to a printing company it is important that a business knows and understands such things as what files and formatting will be needed by the printer, how many copies are required, what type of paper they want, how large the final print run will be, what type of binding is required, if the final product will be folded, and, of course, need to know the printer's deadlines to get the project finished on time. There is also the choice of color models; does the business want any color, single color, spot colors, process colors or process plus spot colors. It all depends on how they feel their final product will be viewed; color always makes a brochure or a flyer stand out.
Following these procedures will make it entirely possible for a business to create and design the entire print project, just sending the final plans to the print company. However, if they need help their printing company should be there to offer advice.

Source: minuteman.press

AMERICA'S MOST TRUSTED BANNER COMPANY | AllStateBanners.com

GREEN PRINTING- CARES ABOUT ENVIROMENT

Switch to green printing to help the environment

'Green printing' is a method of printing that takes the environment into account when deciding on what types of papers to buy and what types of chemicals to avoid. The first place to start to switch to green printing is with the source of the paper. Estimates suggest that 100 million trees are cut down annually to supply fiber for writing and printing paper. Although trees are replanted, this is not done on the same scale. Using recycled paper cuts down on that number by reusing post-consumer content such as paper and fabrics. For example, one alternative to wood pulp is blue jean cotton. Instead of using caustic bleach to whiten papers, manufacturers can use chlorine dioxide. This is the same chlorine used in swimming pools and is less harmful.
When going green, a printing company should also consider the inks that it uses. Soy-based inks are becoming very popular because they let out fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the environment. Print companies can also cut down on the number of colors they use on some works; two can be as effective as three. Pantone color inks are also preferable to metallic based ones.
Companies can also make sure they are following industry standards. Most printing associations have information on these and how to follow them effectively. The last way for a printing company to become green is by keeping up on the latest technology such as water-washable inks and wind energy.
By following the steps above, printing companies will find that they are helping to preserve the environment for the next generation.

SOURCE:Minuteman Press

DIGITAL PRINTING, YES OR NO?

To go digital or not, that is the question. Changes in one industry often prompt changes in other industries - a process occurring at this very moment. Companies like Heineken and Coca-Cola are offering their customers a chance to design their own packaging to reflect personal interests, an idea that will no doubt have the printing industry taking note.
When a major player like Coke says Sprite drinkers can design can sleeves to match their interests, it will probably only be a matter of time before other companies do the same. How can companies change their packaging so quickly? The answer is digital printing. Many printers are already offering digital business cards, but this is only the start of the possibilities opened up.
It represents a challenge for the printing industry, because packaging has traditionally been done using the offset method. However, digital printing projects can be changed more readily, making them the natural choice for this new type of marketing.
Adding digital capabilities to a traditional print shop means an investment in digital equipment, and some in the industry would like to wait and see if the idea of rapidly changing packaging continues to be used at the current rate. While there are opinions on both sides, the majority opinion seems to be that this is an exciting idea that greatly appeals to consumers and will rapidly enter the mainstream.
Whether they add digital capabilities immediately or not, it would seem prudent that printers at least start researching this trend. Since many printers are now familiar with digital business cards, they will not be forced to ‘start from scratch’ if they choose to expand their offerings.

Source:Minuteman Press

WHY CHOOSE BANNERS TO ADVERTISE?

When companies are looking to advertise they have many choices to make: do they want to hand out flyers, buy time on the local television and radios stations or create banners to display in various locations? Banner advertising has always been a popular choice in the past and is still so today, largely because banners are one of the most versatile and inexpensive forms of advertising available. The best thing about banner printing is that the banners can be used over and over again with no further cash outlay needed.
There is a whole range of materials used in banner printing such as vinyl, plastic and nylon; some being more durable than others. Banners can be attached to surfaces by pole pockets in which the banner just slides onto a pole, or grommets in which they are attached by rope. Of course, banners can be printed either horizontally or vertically, further enhancing the opportunities for use.
For banners to be most effective there are some rules to adhere to, the most important of which is to keep it simple. A banner should be uncluttered, it should have a bold headline and any images should be vivid and of professional quality. Any points mentioned on the banner should be short and to the point and should contain the business logo and tagline if used for advertising. Make sure the banners have easy to read fonts and use bold colors.
Once the design choices have been made, it is best for a professional printing company to create the banners. With years of experience, a quality print firm can advise on the right type of banner for any purpose.

source: Minuteman Press

INTERNATIONAL SIGN EXPO 2015 LAS VEGAS - DAY 1 TRADE SHOW

The show has begun! We will keep you updated on different innovations and themes of INTERNATIONAL SIGN EXPO 2015 LAS VEGAS - TRADE SHOW for the next couple of days.
Enjoy!

INTERNATIONAL SIGN EXPO 2015 LAS VEGAS COUNTDOWN

For those of you who are still thinking on attending this this great event, it's not too late to sign up. We are providing you with useful information on upcoming program.

Take advantage of all the opportunities to make connections at the largest gathering of sign and visual communications industry professionals in the world.

Exchanging new ideas and sharing experiences enhance the value of your time in Las Vegas and provide new perspectives and insights.

Daily networking events hosted at ISA Sign Expo offer plenty of time for you meet with colleagues, discuss challenges and create opportunities for your business. Don’t miss these great events!

All events are in the Mandalay Bay Convention Center unless otherwise noted.

ISA Networking Reception for National and Custom Sign Companies

Friday, April 10, 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
South Pacific F
Bring your show badge to enter; no separate registration is required.

Custom and national sign company executives are invited to join us as ISA hosts its annual Networking Reception for National and Custom Sign Companies. This popular event brings together representatives from major U.S. national sign companies with custom sign company executives to discuss their specific installation needs. This is a great opportunity for both custom sign company and national sign company executives to meet, network and potentially develop new business relationships. A cash bar will be available.

The Hub

Thursday, April 9, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, April 10, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 11, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Booth 5574

Visit The Hub to meet ISA and Affiliated Associations and learn how to become a member. Stop by The Hub for a chance to participate in Play to Win-ko (a Plinko-style game) when the show floor is open!

ISA/Western States Sign Council Golf Tournament

Wednesday, April 8
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. shotgun start
Las Vegas National Golf Club
1911 East Desert Inn Road
Las Vegas, NV 89109Cost: $150/person

Tee it up with your industry colleagues at the annual ISA/Western States Sign Council Golf Tournament. With only 144 player spots available, this tournament allows for high-quality networking with colleagues from all aspects of the industry. Rather than the traditional Scramble format, the game will be played in a Shamble format with great tee prizes and other chances to win!

For more information contact Rob King at rob@wssc.us.com or (602) 375-3909.

View the golf registration and sponsorship form here.

Play to Win Pub

Thursday, April 9, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, April 10, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 11, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Booth 6179

Relax and unwind at the brand new Play to Win Pub on the trade show floor. Enjoy a cash bar with beer as you meet and network with other attendees and exhibitors. Must be 21 to drink.

Sponsored by:

Dynamic Digital and Integrated Design Reception

Thursday, April 9, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Dynamic Digital Park, Booth 335

This invitation-only event will host integrators, end-users, suppliers and distributors of interactive dynamic displays, as well as designers, specifiers and architects, right on the show floor in the Dynamic Digital Park. To request an invitation, please email design@signs.org.

Young Professionals Happy Hour

Friday, April 10, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Minus 5 Ice Bar at Mandalay Bay

Come to a special happy hour to network with other young professionals in the industry! No prior registration for the happy hour is required; however, you must be registered for the trade show to attend.

Print Application Center Reception

Friday, April 10, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Print Application Center, Booth 1100 on the trade show floor

Held right on the show floor in the Print Application Center, this invitation-only event is your opportunity to network with professionals in the print industry.

Lounge & Learn

Thursday, April 9, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, April 10, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 11, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Booth 5579

Attendees will be able to take advantage of 30-minute education sessions covering current issues and product information within the sign and visual communications industry, participate in Q+A discussion with ISA Sign Expo education speakers, receive sign code assistance from ISA Experts and much more. When speakers aren’t presenting, feel free to rest your feet and recharge in the comfortable seating area. Plus, enjoy complimentary massages daily during trade show hours. View the full Lounge & Learn schedule.

Last Hour Happy Hour

Thursday, April 9, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, April 10, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 11, 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Bars will be set up throughout the trade show floor.

Wrap up your day on the trade show floor with a happy hour! Have a FREE beer on ISA as you mingle with other attendees and exhibitors. Bars will be set up throughout the trade show floor. All are welcome to attend. Show badge is required to enter show floor and must be 21 to drink.

Affiliated Associations Member Party

Thursday, April 9, 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
1923 Bourbon & Burlesque at Mandalay Bay

Join members of ISA Regional Affiliated Associations for valuable networking at this special invitation-only party.

ISA Town Hall Meeting

Thursday, April 9, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
South Pacific J

ISA members are invited to join the ISA leadership in a “Town Hall” meeting for an interactive event about current issues facing the industry. In the meeting, ISA and meeting attendees will engage in a conversation about the ever-changing needs of the members and how ISA can deliver distinguishing value to the industry.

Annual Canadian Reception

Friday, April 10, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
South Pacific J

Join SAC-ACE at the Annual Canadian Reception held at ISA Sign Expo 2015. Take the opportunity to network with Canadian attendees and exhibitors at the show! RSVP: laine@sac-ace.ca or drop by The Hub, Booth 5574, for an invitation.

Source: information taken from signexpo.org

PRINT CHINA 2015 TRADE SHOW

MGI & Wilson Leading Technology to Exhibit Full Range of Digital Printing & Finishing Portfolio at Print China 2015

Monday, April 06, 2015

Press release from the issuing company

MELBOURNE, FL – MGI Digital Graphic Technology and Wilson Leading Technology (Shenzhen) Ltd., are happy to announce that they will be exhibiting MGI’s printing and finishing solutions together at the PRINT CHINA 2015 tradeshow April 7-12^th, 2015.

Both the JETvarnish 3D and iFOIL spot coating & digital foiling unit, as well as the new Meteor DP 8700XL+ Digital Press will be on display at the Guangdong Modern International Exhibition Center, an exhibition that is expected to attract over 180,000+ visitors.

Media guests and event attendees are invited to stop by the Wilson exhibit booth at Hall 3 C 1012 for live technology demonstrations and see digital embossed foiling, digital spot UV coating, and 3D Digital Varnish being produced live on the JETvarnish 3D.

In addition, the Meteor DP8700 XL+ will be demonstrating its true multi-substrate capabilities by printing specialty papers, plastics, adhesives, magnetics and envelopes with no click charges, all designed to help printers maximize production opportunities and pursue new customer revenue streams with flexible digital VDP options.

 

source:whattheythink.com

THE BEST PRINTERS 2015 FOR HOME/OFFICE USE

More often than anything else, we get the question, "What's the best printer for me?" It's a tough question to answer, because it all depends on what you want to do with your printer. Whether you want a high-quality printer, an all-in-one workhorse, a compact photo printer, or a simple single-function inkjet, we've got you covered. We've picked the five printers, across all categories, with the highest CNET rating from the past calendar year to satisfy your curiosity. If you're interested in specific categories, check out our top products lists on the left

HP Officejet Pro 8600 Plus e-All-in-One

If you can find a desk to accommodate its large size, the HP Officejet Pro 8600 Plus all-in-one printer serves up top-shelf output quality at rapid print speeds, suitable for offices, home users, and photo enthusiasts hunting for an upgrade.

 

Epson WorkForce 845 All-in-One Printer

Though it's slightly more expensive than competing inkjet workhorses, we recommend the Epson WorkForce 845 for its refined design and Epson's Connect cloud-printing portfolio.

Epson Stylus NX430 Small-in-One All-in-One Printer

The Epson NX430 "Small-in-One" printer is a solid investment for students and office jockeys who print high-quality photos and documents but don't have the space for a large format device.

HP LaserJet Pro P1606

Fast, cheap, and compact, the HP LaserJet Pro P1606dn offers a winning combination of value and performance for home offices or small businesses in need of a monochrome laser printer.

 

Brother HL-2270DW

With improvements to its output speed, the Brother HL-2270DW improves on its legacy model and provides small businesses an efficient output device for high-volume black-and-white prints.

Samsung Xpress M2020W

The Samsung SL-M2020W is the best laser printer you can buy in the ultra budget price range.

SOURCE: Justin Yu (www.cnet.com)

MEDIA EXPO DELHI 2015

International exhibition on indoor & outdoor advertising and signage solutions

From 24-26 July 2015 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Media Expo-Delhi is home to wide range of products and services such as digital printing equipment, wide format printing equipment, fabric and textile printers, eco-solvent printers, flat-bed printers, screen printing machines, heat transfer machines, print heads and software, 3-D laser equipments, lamination machines, plasma cutting machines, flex seaming machines, vacuum forming machines, vinyl cutting equipment and a lot more. It is an interactive platform dealing with signage manufacturing, printing, advertising and retailing and brings all buyers and sellers under one roof.

WHAT IS 3D PRINTING?

What 3D printing is

3D printing or additive manufacturing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. In an additive process an object is created by laying down successive layers of material until the entire object is created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced horizontal cross-section of the eventual object.

How does 3D Printing work?

It all starts with making a virtual design of the object you want to create. This virtual design is made in a CAD (Computer Aided Design) file using a 3D modeling program (for the creation of a totally new object) ór with the use of a 3D scanner (to copy an existing object). This scanner makes a 3D digital copy of an object and puts it into a 3D modeling program.
To prepare the digital file created in a 3D modeling program for printing, the software slices the final model into hundreds or thousands of horizontal layers. When this prepared file is uploaded in the 3D printer, the printer creates the object layer by layer. The 3D printer reads every slice (or 2D image) and proceeds to create the object blending each layer together with no sign of the layering visible, resulting in one three dimensional object.

Methods and technologies of 3D Printing

Not all 3D printers use the same technology to realize their objects. There are several ways to do it and all those available as of 2012 were additive, differing mainly in the way layers are build to create the final object. Some methods use melting or softening material to produce the layers. Selective laser sintering (SLS) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) are the most common technologies using this way of printing. Another method of printing is to lay liquid materials that are cured with different technologies. The most common technology using this method is called stereolithography (SLA).
Selective laser sintering (SLS)
This technology uses a high power laser to fuse small particles of plastic, metal, ceramic or glass powders into a mass that has the desired three dimensional shape. The laser selectively fuses the powdered material by scanning the cross-sections (or layers) generated by the 3D modeling program on the surface of a powder bed. After each cross-section is scanned, the powder bed is lowered by one layer thickness. Then a new layer of material is applied on top and the process is repeated until the object is completed.
All untouched powder remains as it is and becomes a support structure for the object. Therefore there is no need for any support structure which is an advantage over SLS and SLA. All unused powder can be used for the next printing. SLS was developed and patented by Dr. Carl Deckard at the University of Texas in the mid-
1980s, under sponsorship of DARPA.

source:www.3dprinting.com