Reader’s spreads are commonly how design applications default their display, providing a consecutive layout that is easily interpreted and read from left to right, top to bottom, digitally. 

Alternatively, Printer’s spreads are the correct setup for printing a book, catalog or pages that will be folded and bound. By setting them up in the design software this way, the front and back of the pages will become consecutive once printed and assembled. 

    

    

    Use this Printer’s Spread graphic as a guide to setting up your pages for your next print catalog or booklet!

As always, our experts at PRP are here to help. If you still are feeling lost, simply export the file as “pages” rather than dealing with the layout of the “spreads.” Our software and print experts can take it from there! 

SPIRAL BINDING

One of the most commonly used and recognized bindery methods, Spiral Binding. With the ability to lay flat when open, spiral bound books are a popular choice to be paired with a sturdy cover sheet for internal reference books, workbooks filled with interactive worksheets, notebooks, and calendars. With coil sizes small enough for 10 sheets to large enough for 500 sheets, spiral binding fits the diverse printing needs of all industries. Also referred to as “Coil Binding” this method is extremely durable and withstands heavy use. When produced, evenly spaced round holes are drilled into the printed books. Then the PVC coils are fed through each hole of each book (with the assistance of equipment to speed it up!) and clipped at each end to secure the coil. For a sturdy, long lasting hold, consider spiral binding! 

WIRE BINDING

While this method looks extremely similar to spiral binding in finished results, Wire Binding is slightly different. Also referred to as “Wire-O” binding, wire binding uses wire as opposed to PVC coils. From a glance, the biggest difference appears to be the appearance of the coil. However, the process strongly differs from spiral binding as instead of feeding the coil through the holes, a different piece of equipment is used to hold and crimp the wire to form the bind. Wire binding is often chosen to bind smaller, more delicate, and presentation documents, as it performs best with a lower page count. The largest downside to the wire binding method is the fragility of metal and its tendency to hold bends. Wire binding still provides the ability for the document to lay flat when open. 

    

AN UP CLOSE GLANCE – Lay CoMPLETELY flat when open

SADDLE STITCH

Saddle Stitching is one of the most commonly chosen binding methods for catalogs, brochures, and booklets. For this process, the printed piece gets sent through the machinery as if it’s sitting on a saddle, with it open face-down and split down the middle. Then, two staples are put in the spine of the book to hold each page together for a beautiful finished piece. Two staples are the standard, however more can be used to accommodate larger pages and booklets. While it won’t lay as flat as the aforementioned methods of bindery, saddle stitched books are your typical magazine bind and typically won’t close themselves as they remain lightweight. Saddle stitching is efficient in production and remains one of the most popular, cost-effective binding options.

PERFECT BINDING

Perfect Binding is a method used most commonly on books and catalogs. Perfect Binding differs from the previously discussed methods as it uses adhesive to hold the pages together when produced. Books created this way have a perfectly bound rectangular backbone (spine). A caveat to this method is the lack of ability for the book to lay flat when open. Due to the adhesive and labor, this method also tends to result in a higher cost and longer turnaround time than the others mentioned in this overview. 

AN UP CLOSE GLANCE – NoT COMPLETELY FLAT WHEN OPEN

PLASTIC COMB BINDING (GBC) & UPPER CORNER STAPLE

These last two methods may be less frequently chosen, however they still serve their diligent purpose as binding methods! 

Plastic Comb Binding (or GBC) is another lay flat option utilizing thin plastic combs to hold the pages together. This method is common for informal documents and workbooks. An advantage to these plastic combs is the variety of colors available on the market. 

Upper Corner Staple is another alternative method that can be applied in production on the copier machines. A single upper left corner staple is most commonly used for documents of smaller page count like rental agreements, onboarding forms, and medical packets. Since pages held together in the top corner will not lay perfectly flat on its own, this method may not fit every application. 

    

TO CONCLUDE

The six methods explained above are great options for your next project needing to be bound. Be sure to consider the number of pages, size of sheets and the intended final use when deciding which method fits your needs. At Poor Richard’s Press, our experts are always ready to help you in finding the best fit for all of your print needs!

1. Getting to our storefront

There are a handful of ways our storefront can be accessed, but here are 3 foolproof methods to find our online shop. 

1. Button on the top ribbon of prpco.com (our main site, where you’re reading this!) Locate the button titled “Shop Our Products”. Click the button and you will be redirected to the storefront in a new window. 

2. Scan the QR code (a quick and easy way to pull up the storefront on your phone!) Using your phone camera app, hold your phone steady pointing at the above QR code until a highlighted link titled “shop.prpco.com” shows on your phone screen. Click the link and your phones default web browser will open up to the PRP storefront.

3. Finding the link in our social media accounts and blog posts! Through our social media bio Linktree you are able to find a group of links from PRP. Locate the “Shop Our Products” link and be redirected to the storefront. Or simply keep an eye out in these company blog and social posts for linked text “shop.prpco.com” (in the light blue) and click it to be redirected. 

2. CREATE AN ACCOUNT TO STORE ORDER INFO AND your LOGOS

Welcome to the new PRP storefront homepage! Feel free to browse the available products and click around to gain familiarity. When you get to the home screen for the first time, we recommend going ahead and creating an account on the storefront site. 

Use an active email address you have access to, as the entered email address not only serves as your account username but is also the recipient address of all confirmations and communications regarding your order. Whether you are new or an existing client of PRP, creating an account on the storefront will help expedite your online ordering experience. By creating an account, you unlock access to store your logos and artwork in your library, save work in progress in the design studio, gain access to a user dashboard to view the status of your orders and see previous order details at a glance, as well as submit reorders from by the click of a button! 

3. Select an item and specify details

Once you’ve found an item you want to order, select your specifications in the item screen. As you make changes, notice that your price will change in real time reflecting the selections. Be sure to fill out all of the required fields. Each product offered on the storefront has slightly varied options, so pay attention to different dimension, color, and number of sides options where applicable. If you’re looking for something specific, you can utilize the search icon on the righthand edge of the top ribbon of the storefront site, or navigate through the dropdown categories to narrow your search. 

4.  Upload or create a design

Now that you’ve decided on an item, you can upload or create your artwork/logo in the storefront design studio. Simply locate the “Custom Design” button underneath the item details you specified. Once inside the design studio you can directly upload your png, jpg, svg, pdf and tiff files, browse a selection of premade designs, or sift through a provided clip art section. Additionally, there is a simple “Text” option within the design studio that serves as the perfect tool for adding a namedrop to promotional items. This advanced design feature allows you to adjust the sizing and location of your artwork on an image of the item. This designer studio tool is also extremely handy for testing different artwork variations on the item before making a final choice and purchasing. Once you’ve placed a logo or design you’re happy with on your item, navigate to the top right and either save your design to access later or add to cart! 

5.  Add to cart and place your order

Here’s where it gets really straightforward! Just like ordering from most other online vendors, now that your details are specified, simply select add to cart! Review your items and verify the selected quantities. Fill out the required billing and shipping information as prompted. Another perk to creating your account is that your contact and shipping information is saved within, and auto-populates at checkout each time you log in. Local pickup is an option for clients within the area, otherwise shipping rates are provided at checkout. Complete the prompted fields and submit your order! Once your order has been submitted and received by our team, you will receive an email confirmation.

6. Be on the lookout for your proof

Within 1-2 business days of placing your order, our team will upload a PDF Proof to the order in your account that requires your approval to proceed with the order. This way we can be sure to present you with the most accurate representation of how the product will look in the end. This proof will be accessible from a notification email asking you to “Review Artwork” as well as from your account dashboard on the storefront site under “My Orders”. Please carefully review the proof once received and either accept or reject the proof. There is a “Notes” field within the proof approval section to leave comments, if you are looking to make adjustments to the artwork or its placement, you can reply directly to us in that field, or contact us to make changes. Once the proof is approved your order is pushed to production.

7. Await your order completion notification

After your proof is approved you can expect our production team to have your products ready for you in 5-10 business days. You will be notified via email when your order is ready to be picked up or has been shipped!

One of the best features of the PRP online storefront is the convenience provided for locating your previous order details, package tracking and quickly reordering.

8. NOT SEEING WHAT YOU’re looking for?

Not seeing what you’re looking for? While our site is frequently being updated with the latest popular product options, we continue to offer more options in house not listed on the PRP storefront. To inquire about an item or product not found on the storefront, feel free to reach out directly to Poor Richard’s Press through either our Contact Us or Request A Quote pages. 

In conclusion

Now you have been given a quick walkthrough and are prepared to explore and order from the new PRP Online Storefront.

Experience and utilize the convenience that our storefront has to offer! Browse products and view real time estimates while brainstorming marketing collateral with your team, upload or create artwork and play with the positioning on the virtual item itself within the design studio, order hats and water bottles for the crew as soon as the idea is sparked (even if it’s outside of normal business hours), view and store logos and past jobs in your account to quickly access previous projects and reorder at the click of a button! 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are here to help!

View the informational walkthrough videos below!

1. cover stock paper

Cover stock paper, also known as card stock, is a thick and sturdy paper that offers durability and rigidity. It is available in a range of weights, typically measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). The higher the weight, the thicker and more substantial the paper. Cover stock paper is commonly used for covers, postcards, invitations, and other applications where a firm and reliable surface is essential.

Advantages of Cover Stock Paper:

1. Strength and Durability: Cover stock paper provides excellent strength, especially for smaller sized packaging. This makes it suitable for packaging applications that require protection and resilience.
2. Printability: This paper type offers a smooth and consistent surface, allowing for high-quality printing results and vibrant colors.
3. Customization: Cover stock paper can be easily customized with various finishes, coatings, and embossing, enabling you to achieve a unique and professional look for your packaging.

choosing the right material

Selecting between cover stock paper and pt. weight board for small, light-weight packaging largely depends on your specific needs and objectives. Consider the following factors:

• Weight and Size: Determine the weight and dimensions of your product to ensure that the chosen material can adequately support and protect it.
• Printing Requirements: If your packaging design involves intricate graphics or high-quality prints, cover stock paper may be a suitable choice due to its excellent printability.
• Structural Requirements: If your packaging design requires complex folds or intricate die-cut shapes, pt. weight board’s superior rigidity and versatility make it a favorable option.

in conclusion

When it comes to small, light-weight packaging, the choice between cover stock paper and pt. weight board can significantly impact the overall quality and functionality of your packaging. Consider the specific requirements of your product, such as weight, size, printing needs, and structural demands, to determine the most suitable material. Whether you opt for the strength and printability of cover stock paper or the structural integrity and versatility of pt. weight board, both options offer valuable characteristics that can elevate your packaging and leave a lasting impression on your customers.

Remember to consult with your printing and packaging professionals, like Poor Richard’s Press, to ensure that you make an informed decision and receive expert guidance tailored to your specific needs.

1. spot uv embellishments 

Spot UV is a new, sleek embellishment to ensure your product will stand out. But, what is spot UV? To put it simply, Spot UV is a layer of clear gloss that gets printed over the top of your finished piece. This layer of gloss can be printed onto certain areas of the printed piece so that it gives a unique raised look and an added tactile feel. 

Spot UV is an embellishment that naturally grabs the eye and encourages people to touch the piece. This urge to touch the piece is where the benefits of Spot UV really kick in. Studies have shown that when multiple senses are engaged, retention rates are much higher. In fact, retention rates have been shown to be 70% higher on an embellished piece versus an identical non-embellished counterpart. These higher retention rates can be crucial when applied to an important campaign.

2. custom DIE cutting 

Die cutting is another key way to make your campaign stand out. Die cutting is an embellishment process in which materials such as paper and cardstock can be cut into custom shapes. 

Die cut pieces are unique because the creative possibilities are almost endless. With the use of die cutting you can create one-of-a-kind cutouts and shapes in almost any print item. In addition, die cutting opens the possibility of light weight packaging, cartons and unique folds.

The unique touch element that die cutting adds is a special element. For example, when a potential customer opens their mailbox and sorts through their mail, a piece with a unique shape, folds, or cut outs grabs their attention much quicker and for longer than the standard piece of mail. This relates to the neuroscience of touch. 

3. Foiling

Nothing makes a print piece shine quite like foiling does! Foiling embellishments are a standard go-to for an added impression. Foiling can be done in a variety of colors in a wide array of applications. Whether it be a chocolate box with gold foil or a postcard with iridescent rainbow foil, it is sure to impress.

Foil embellishments were tested in a study conducted by the Foil and Specialty Effects Association, and they found that products with foil were identified 45% quicker by shoppers than products without foil. In addition, these enhanced products held customers attention 18% longer than print-only products.

In conclusion

Embellishments are a surefire way to increase campaign success. In a study performed by the FSEA, they tested the response rates of various campaign types. They found that the average response rate for email was only 0.12%, where direct mail campaigns had a response rate of 4.4%. In contrast direct mail campaigns with embellishments had a whopping 10% response rate! The numbers speak for themselves, so give embellishments a try on your next campaign!

Text vs cover

All paper can generally be grouped into two categories: Text and Cover.

“Text” is the generic, all inclusive name for lighter, thinner paper. Text paper is flexible and can easily be rolled and folded. This can include paper such as Book, Bond, Writing, Ledger, and Offset paper (more on these later). Text paper is often used for items like flyers, letterheads, bookpages, notepads, etc.

“Cover” is a generic name for heavier and thicker papers. Cover paper is more durable than Text and and needs to be scored before folding. Cover paper can have texture and can have a glossy or matte appearance. Cover paper includes stocks such as Bristol, index, Tag, and Card paper (more on this later). Common items printed on Cover paper are postcards, invitations, presentation covers, lightweight packaging, and more.

what’s the difference between # (lb) and GSM?

While Text and Cover are the two main groupings that all paper types fall under, there are also two separate numbering systems that determine the specific weight a paper is. These numbering systems are the International Metric System and the North American System. The International Metric System uses grams per square meter (gsm or g/m2 or g/m²) while the North American System uses a pound rating (# or lb). 

The North American System is based on the weight of 500 sheets (also known as a ream of paper). So for example 80# cover is categorized as such because a ream of 80# cover would weigh 80 pounds. 

The North American System can be a bit confusing because the same pound number can be used for both heavier (Cover) and lighter (Text) paper. So, 80# Cover paper is almost twice as heavy as 80# Text. For Example. 80# Text weighs 104 g/m² while 80# Cover weighs 218 g/m². 

In order to classify each weight for both Text and Cover papers, the ream of paper is made up of 2 different sized papers. The Text stock papers get weighed at 25″ x 38″ sheets while the Cover stock papers are weighed at 20″ x 26″ sheets. 

The International Metric System bases their rating by the weight of a 1 meter by 1 meter sheet. So, a paper that is classified as 200g/m² would weigh 200g/m² when sized as a 1 x 1 meter piece. 

The International Metric System does not use the same numbers for both Cover and Text weight papers. The higher the number is, the more weight and generally the thicker the paper is.

Below we provided two charts with general descriptions of common paper types and how they are most commonly used. Feel free to download or save these assets for future use.

What is spot uv used for

Raised spot gloss can be applied to almost any print project! Stand out from the crowd with spot uv business cards, brochures, pamphlets, booklets, folders, and more! Spot gloss is often used to highlight the parts of your design you really want to stand out, a business name, a promotion code, an impactful image, headers, or whatever you may want to emphasize on your project. 

1. What are bleeds?

A bleed is a section of artwork that goes beyond the edge of where the paper will be cut. This way when the print project is being printed, the print will be slightly larger than the desired size but then will be cut down to the appropriate size.

In the above picture, the thin green line indicates the final size of the print project (8.5 x 11″). The orange highlighted edge around the page indicates the bleed area. As you can see, the image of the plant goes past the final size edge into the bleed area; this will allow the image to “fall off” the page. 

2. Why are bleeds neccessary?

We know that bleeds are necessary when you want a design or image to fall off the edge of the paper but understanding WHY is just as important. The reasoning for bleeds comes down to when your project is being cut. While cutting machines are very precise, they are not perfect and can have small margins of error. 

Cutters cut large stacks of paper at one time, so when lining up the document the machine may cut the first page on top to perfection, while the very last page may have a small margin of error. Having bleeds that are far enough from the cut line prevent there from being any unwanted white border along the edge.

Notice in the image above that the card with the incorrect use of bleeds (not bringing the image to the edge of the bleed line) has a white border around the image where it is supposed to meet the edge.

3. How to properly use bleeds

Bleeds are usually set up to be 1/8 (.125) of an inch. This is a standard bleed size that does not need to be scaled to the document size. For example, if you are printing a 4 x 6 postcard or a 17 x 11 poster, they both would only need a .125″ bleed size. 

When using bleeds you need to ensure that your images, color blocks, or anything else you want to fall off the page extend to the full length of the bleed line and you export with crop marks. The image above shows how a document should look when properly exported as a PDF.

4. how to setup and export your document with bleeds

Adobe Illustrator: Setup

When you are first creating an artboard in Illustrator there is a section on the right side of the pop-up panel titled “bleed,” here you can adjust the bleed amount. 

If you have already started your document and need to add bleeds you can go to File → Document Setup, here a pop-up window will show up where you can adjust your bleeds as necessary.

Adobe Illustrator: Exporting

When exporting from Illustrator first ensure that all images, color blocks, and design elements you wish to go to the edge of your print project have met the bleed marks fully. At Poor Richard’s Press, we take all print files in the form of a PDF, follow the below procedure to ensure proper exporting.

• • Go to File → Save As…
  • In the popup window select Adobe PDF (pdf) in the dropdown menu labeled “Format”
  • Click “Save”

• • In the next popup window go to the section labeled “Marks and Bleeds” on the left of the panel
  • Ensure that “Trim Marks” and “Use Document Bleed Settings” are both checked
  • Click “Save PDF”

Adobe InDesign: Setup

When you are first creating a document in InDesign you can set up the bleed on the right side of the panel labeled “Bleed and Slug.” You may need to scroll down and click on the dropdown menu to be able to access this section.

If you need to add bleeds to an already existing document, you can go to File → Document Setup and make the adjustments on the pop-up menu. Again, you may need to extend the dropdown menu titled “Bleed and Slug” in order to make changes.

Adobe InDesign: Exporting

When exporting from InDesign first ensure that all images, color blocks, and design elements you wish to go to the edge of your print project have met the bleed marks fully. At Poor Richard’s Press, we take all print files in the form of a PDF, follow the below procedure to ensure proper exporting.

• • Go to File → Export
  • In the popup window select Adobe PDF (print) in the dropdown menu labeled “Format”
  • Click “Save”

• • In the next popup window go to the section labeled “Marks and Bleeds” on the left of the panel
  • Ensure that “Trim Marks” and “Use Document Bleed Settings” are both checked
  • Click “Export”

Canva: Setup

While we do recommend using a software other than Canva for creating print items, you can add a bleed to your document following these steps. Open your design and in the top left corner click on File → Show print bleed. 

Canva: Exporting

When exporting from Canva first ensure that all images, color blocks, and design elements you wish to go to the edge of your print project have met the bleed marks fully. At Poor Richard’s Press, we take all print files in the form of a PDF. Please note that we do not recommend using Canva to create print PDFs, however, if you do choose to use Canva follow the below procedure to ensure proper exporting. 

• • Go to Share → Download

• • Under “File Type” choose PDF Print
  • Make sure “crop marks and bleed” is checked
  • Click Download