A First-Timer's Guide to Ordering Print in Singapore

A First-Timer's Guide to Ordering Print in Singapore

Ordering print for the first time can feel oddly intimidating, full of unfamiliar terms and choices. Yet the process is straightforward once you know the few things that actually matter. This short guide walks a newcomer through ordering print in Singapore with confidence, from the first enquiry to collecting the finished job.

Printing-101

Know What You Want Before You Ask

A clear brief saves time and money. Before contacting a printer, settle the basics: what the item is, roughly how many you need, the size, and when you need it. Even approximate answers let the printer guide you quickly and quote accurately. If you have a reference, such as an existing card or flyer you like, keep it handy, because showing an example communicates far more than a long description.

The Questions Worth Asking

A good printer welcomes questions. A few sensible ones make the whole order smoother.

  • What paper or material do you recommend for this item, and why?
  • What turnaround is realistic, and is there a rush option if I need it?
  • Will I see a proof before the full run is printed?
  • How should I supply my file, and what format do you prefer?
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Getting Your File Right

If you are designing the artwork yourself, build it at the final size, allow a little bleed on any edge where color runs off the page, and keep important text away from the trim line. Supply the file in the format the printer asks for, and always read every word one last time, since a typo caught on screen is free while a typo caught on paper is not. Most delays can be traced back to issues with the artwork.

Proof, Collect and Keep a Record

The proofreading stage is crucial, so review the proof thoroughly before giving it the green light. Once you've checked it and given the OK, double-check when and where you can pick up the printed items, and keep a copy of both the approved proof and your order details. By following these steps, you'll find your first printing order in Singapore to be a lot less daunting and more like a straightforward process you can rely on.