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  Explore
production alternatives for low quantity jobs.
If it would cost $10,000 to print 10,000 pieces,
or a dollar a piece, it seems it should only cost $2,000 to print
2,000 pieces. But since the lion's share of the cost from the printer
is for prepress (converting the design into printing plates) and
press time (preparation and cleanup) the cost of the 2,000 pieces
will probably be over $8,000; at least $4 each! For small quantity
jobs it is quite often cheaper to use other methods of reproduction,
such as photocopying, silkscreening or, in extreme cases, digital
output. See Sample
 Explore
different design formats.
It is often possible to combine the features
of two or more separate pieces into one hybrid design, cutting down
dramatically on design and printing costs. See
Sample
 "Gang
up" your pieces.
Since a high percentage of the cost of
printing is for the printer to convert the design into printing
plates, and for the setup and cleanup of the presses, it is always
best to go to print as few times as possible. Print several pieces
that have the same colors, and aprroximately the same quantity on
the same sheet of paper, then trim them apart. This is called "Ganging-up."
See Sample
Discuss how you want your piece to look
with the printer.
In order to get the varnish effect I wanted
for the Teamsters History poster series, the printer and I had several
discussions and looked at a variety of samples. The end product
was exactly what I was looking for, and although it was a very expensive
piece to print, it looked much better than it would have if I had
not consulted the printer. See sample
 Minimize paper costs.
If the size of you design is flexible, consider different sizes in order to fit as many pieces on each sheet or roll. See Sample
Consider
stock photography.
If your piece needs dynamic photography but you
don't want to spend the money or take the time for a photo shoot,
consider stock photography. Photos can be selected and paid for
and then downloaded over the internet, and usually at a significant
savings. See sample
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