4-Color Offset Printing
Product Options
Features
- We Mail for You
- Photo Quality Printing
- Many Folding Choices
- Next Day Available
- Downloadable Templates
- Description
- Recommendations
- Marketing Tips
- Mailing Order Requirements
Description
Brochures w / Mailing are a popular format for sharing detailed information in an easily presentable way. They are usually colorful and folded, so they are an efficient format for providing information about your company, its products, and services.
Flyers are like Brochures but without being folded.
Recommendations
The most common order options are 8.5" x 11" before folding on 100# Gloss Text weight paper.
Almost always, Brochures are printed full color on both sides (4/4) and are coated AQ 2 Sides. The most common folds are Tri-Folds, Z-Folds, and Half-Folds. Tri-Folds and Z-Folds give you 3 panels to display your information on each side. Half-Folds give you 2 panels on each side.
Marketing Tips
Brochures w / Mailing are a classic marketing weapon for a reason. They are an efficient way of getting valuable marketing messages in both images and text directly into the hands of target customers. Brochures allow customers to quickly get a feel for products or services while also finding answers to many of their initial questions. Brochures w / Mailing help you expand your target market.
Mailing Order Requirements
We offer mailing services originating from both the western and eastern U.S., so your mailings will arrive at their destination faster. When choosing which location to use for mailing on the order detail page, look over your mailing list. If 50% or more of the addresses are in the West, use our western U.S. facility. If 50% or more are in the East, use our eastern U.S. facility.
Note: We cannot split your mailing list. To mail from both locations, please submit separate orders and separate mailing lists.
When your Brochure is oriented landscape, please be sure the design of your back page allows 1.00" of white space from the edges at the top right corner so that we can place an indicia for mailing. Also, please leave 2.25" x 4.25" of white space in the bottom right corner for inkjetting of addresses.
Proofs will not be sent for approval until jobs are approved by Prepress, are confirmed to meet USPS regulations, have a valid mailing list uploaded and all postage paid.
Note: The USPS requires any brochures over 12" x 15" be folded for mailing. For our standard sizes, any Brochures 11" x 17" and above require folding for mailing.
- Standard Size
- Any Trim Size
Standard Sizes
Our standard sizes, listed below, are the most popular in the industry:
- 5.5" x 8.5"
- 8.5" x 11"
- 8.5" x 14"
- 9" x 12"
- 11" x 8.5"
- 11" x 17"
- 11" x 25.5"
- 12" x 18"
- Each size (above) indicates the size of the flat sheet, so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options.
Any Trim Size
You can order custom sizes by using the "Any Trim Size (Edit Below)" option in the pricing calculator. First select the standard size option which is larger in both dimensions (height and width) than your desired custom size. In the "Any Trim Size (Edit Below)" box on the pricing calculator (shown below), type in your desired dimensions. Please remember if you are ordering "Any Trim Size" for a product that is folded, "Any Trim Size" dimensions are for the product before it is folded.
Be mindful of the custom trim when submitting a file to prevent any part of your design from being trimmed away. It's extra important to look at a proof when ordering custom trim.
- 14pt Uncoated Cover
- 14 Pt. Gloss Cover
- 100# Linen Cover Stock
- 100# Gloss Text
- 70# Uncoated Smooth Text
14pt Uncoated Cover
You may be familiar with this type of stock from thick index cards, though the finish is much higher quality.
This is a very versatile stock. The uncoated finish is good when you don't want a slick and shiny look, while the firm 14 Pt. stock folds precisely
14 Pt. Gloss Cover
You may be familiar with this type of stock from presentation folders.
This thick and stiff stock is coated on both sides with a glossy finish.
100# Linen Cover Stock
You may be familiar with this type of stock from business cards or notecards with a subtle, woven, fabric-like finish.
This sturdy paper offers a unique non-glossy look enhanced with a subtle, woven linen finish.
100# Gloss Text
You may be familiar with this type of stock from the covers of many popular magazines like People and Time.
This paper strikes a balance between thickness and foldability, while the glossy finish on both sides gives your text a professional appearance.
70# Uncoated Smooth Text
You may be familiar with this type of stock from business stationary or typical letterhead.
This paper has a quality feel, folds easily, and is a good choice when you don't want a slick and shiny finish.
- 4/4 (Full Color Both Sides)
- 4/1 (Full Color Front / B&W Back)
- 4/0 (Full Color Front Side Only)
4/4
Full color on both sides of the sheet. This option can reproduce the range of colors you see in a typical photograph out of the standard 4 printing colors: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. Typical examples of this are magazine covers and high-end catalogs.
4/1
Full color (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black as above) on the front and black on the back. A typical example of this is a flyer.
4/0
Full color (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black as above) on the front and no printing on the back. A typical example of this is a poster.
- AQ 2 Sides
- UV 2 Sides
- Satin AQ 2 Sides
AQ 2 Sides
AQ is short for Aqueous Coating. This is a semi-gloss, environmentally friendly, water-based coating applied over the entire front and back of the printed piece. It provides additional gloss and protection, and it can be written on with a ballpoint pen.
UV 2 Sides
UV is short for Ultra Violet Light-Cured Coating. This is a high-gloss coating applied over the entire front and back of the printed piece. It is not recommended for products you need to write on after being printed.
Satin AQ 2 Sides
AQ is short for Aqueous Coating. This is a matte finish, environmentally friendly, water-based coating applied over the entire front and back of the printed piece. It reduces the gloss of the printing and it can be written on with a ballpoint pen.
- Explanation of Turnaround Time
- Next Day
- Rush
- 1-2 Day
- 2-3 Days
- 3-4 Days
- 5-7 Days
Explanation of Turnaround Time
See a quick chart showing turnaround times
Turnaround times begin when the proof is approved. All times are based on standard business days Monday through Friday excluding federal holidays. For orders shipping to the blue zone, please use the Eastern time zone (New York). For orders shipping to the red zone, please use the Pacific time zone (California). Please see the below map:
Please note that turnaround time does not include shipping or mailing time. You may select from available production turnaround times and your preferred shipping time as you place your order.
Our products are the same great quality for every turnaround time we offer.
Next Day Turnaround
If you order a proof (Online PDF or Hard Copy Proof), your turnaround time begins as soon as you approve your proof in our system. If you order "No Proof, Run As Is" (only recommended if you are certain you want us to print what you sent as is), your turnaround time will be based on the guidelines listed below. Once your order is in imposition, you should receive an email with your estimated order completion date (does not include shipping or mailing).
Guidelines
Files must be uploaded before the cut off time, which is 9:00 a.m. Pacific for orders produced in our West facility and 9:00 a.m. Eastern for orders produced in our East facility. If you request a proof, you must approve your proof by 10:45 a.m. in the time zone your order is produced for turnaround time to begin.Next Day Shipped Orders
Orders will ship the next business day if you follow the guidelines.
Files uploaded after the cut off time will be processed the following business day.
Rush Turnaround
To accommodate tight deadlines, this product is available with Rush Turnaround for an extra charge. Our standard turnaround times are also available at no extra charge. To order Rush Turnaround, simply select it from the Turnaround dropdown menu in the pricing calculator.
Note: Rush orders do not automatically include rush shipping. Please select the best shipping option to meet your needs.
1-2 Day Turnaround
If you order a proof (Online PDF or Hard Copy Proof), your turnaround time begins as soon as you approve your proof in our system. If you order "No Proof, Run As Is" (only recommended if you are certain you want us to print what you sent as is), your turnaround time will be based on the guidelines listed below. Once your order is in imposition, you should receive an email with your estimated order completion date (does not include shipping or mailing).
Guidelines
Files must be uploaded before the cut off time, which is 10:00 a.m. Pacific for orders produced in our West facility and 10:00 a.m. Eastern for orders produced in our East facility. If you request a proof, you must approve your proof by 12:45 p.m. in the time zone your order is produced for turnaround time to begin.A. 1-2 Day Shipped Orders
Orders will ship the next business day after 4:00 p.m. or in 2 business days if you follow the guidelines.
Files uploaded after the cut off time will be processed the following business day.
2-3 Day Turnaround
If you order a proof (Online PDF or Hard Copy Proof), your turnaround time begins as soon as you approve your proof in our system. If you order "No Proof, Run As Is" (only recommended if you are certain you want us to print what you sent as is), your turnaround time will be based on the guidelines listed below. Once your order is in imposition, you should receive an email with your estimated order completion date (does not include shipping or mailing).
Guidelines
Files must be uploaded before the cut off time, which is 10:00 a.m. Pacific for orders produced in our West facility and 10:00 a.m. Eastern for orders produced in our East facility. If you request a proof, you must approve your proof by 4:00 p.m. in the time zone your order is produced for turnaround time to begin. 2-3 Day Shipped Orders
Orders will ship between 2 business days after 4:00 p.m. and 3 business days if you follow the guidelines.
Files uploaded after the cut off time will be processed the following business day.
3-4 Day Turnaround
If you order a proof (Online PDF or Hard Copy Proof), your turnaround time begins as soon as you approve your proof in our system. If you order "No Proof, Run As Is" (only recommended if you are certain you want us to print what you sent as is), your turnaround time will be based on the guidelines listed below. Once your order is in imposition, you should receive an email with your estimated order completion date (does not include shipping or mailing).
Guidelines
Files must be uploaded before the cut off time, which is 10:00 a.m. Pacific for orders produced in our West facility and 10:00 a.m. Eastern for orders produced in our East facility. If you request a proof, you must approve your proof by 4:00 p.m. in the time zone your order is produced for turnaround time to begin.A. 3-4 Day Shipped Orders
Orders will ship between 3 business days after 4:00 p.m. and 4 business days if you follow the guidelines.
Files uploaded after the cut off time will be processed the following business day.
5-7 Day Turnaround
If you order a proof (Online PDF or Hard Copy Proof), your turnaround time begins as soon as you approve your proof in our system. If you order "No Proof, Run As Is" (only recommended if you are certain you want us to print what you sent as is), your turnaround time will be based on the guidelines listed below. Once your order is in imposition, you should receive an email with your estimated order completion date (does not include shipping or mailing).
Guidelines
Files must be uploaded before the cut off time, which is 10:00 a.m. Pacific for orders produced in our West facility and 10:00 a.m. Eastern for orders produced in our East facility. If you request a proof, you must approve your proof by 4:00 p.m. in the time zone your order is produced for turnaround time to begin.5-7 Day Shipped Orders
Orders will ship between 5 business days after 4:00 p.m. and 6-7 business days if you follow the guidelines.
Files uploaded after the cut off time will be processed the following business day.
- Folding
Choose Folding Type:
None: This option is a flat piece of paper like a flyer.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For a flyer (which has no folding), the final size will match the selected size in the calculator.
A classic brochure fold, this option creates three two-sided panels with the folds oriented vertically. Note that one panel is slightly shorter than the others in order to tuck inside and will be hidden until the brochure is opened. Sometimes this folding option is also referred to as a 3 Panel Roll Fold.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, an 11" x 8.5" brochure with a Tri-Fold has a finished size of 3.6875" x 8.5" (3 11/16" x 8 1/2" which creates a portrait orientation.
This option creates two two-sided panels with the fold at the top and oriented horizontally. (If you would like the fold vertically on the left, please look at Vertical Half-Fold.)
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, an 8.5" x 11" brochure with a Half-Fold has a finished size of 8.5" x 5.5" which creates a landscape orientation.
This option creates three two-sided panels with the folds oriented vertically. Note that the middle panel is not visible on either side until the brochure is opened. Sometimes this folding option is also referred to as a 3 Panel Accordion Fold.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, an 11" x 8.5" brochure with a Z-Fold has a finished size of 3.668" x 8.5" which creates a portrait orientation.
This option creates four two-sided panels with the folds oriented vertically. Note that two panels are folded inside and will be hidden until the brochure is opened.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, an 11" x 8.5" brochure with a Double Parallel Fold has a finished size of 2.75" x 8.5" which creates a portrait orientation.
This option creates four two-sided panels with the folds oriented vertically. Note that two panels are slightly shorter than the others in order to tuck inside and will be hidden until the brochure is opened.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, a 17" x 11" brochure with a 4 Panel Roll Fold has a finished size of 4.3125" x 11" (4 5/16" x 11") which creates a portrait orientation. Since a 4 Panel Roll Fold tucks in upon itself, the interior panels are shorter than the exterior panels. In this example, panels 1 and 2 (which form the outside of the folded brochure) are 4.3125" x 11". Panel 3 is 4.25" x 11" and panel 4 is 4.125" x 11".
This option creates four two-sided panels with the folds oriented vertically. Note that two panels are folded inside and will be hidden until the brochure is opened.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, a 17" x 11" brochure with a Double Parallel Fold has a finished size of 4.25" x 11" which creates a portrait orientation.
This option creates six two-sided panels and folds to fit inside a #10 envelope. Note that four panels are folded inside and will be hidden until the brochure is opened.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, this 11" x 17" brochure with an 11 x 17 Fold to #10 Envelope has a finished size of 3.6875" x 8.5" (3 11/16" x 8 1/2") which creates a portrait orientation. Picture this finished piece as a combination of two folds. First, your 11" x 17" gets a Half-Fold down to 11" x 8.5". Your 11" x 8.5" then gets a Tri-Fold down to the finished size of 3.6875" x 8.5". To help visualize this, please look at our description of Half-Fold and Tri-Fold.
This option creates four two-sided panels with the folds oriented vertically. Note that panels 1 and 4 tuck inside panels 2 and 3 once the fold is complete and are hidden until the brochure is opened.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, a 17" x 11" brochure with a Double Close Gate Fold has a finished size of 4.3125" x 11" (4 5/16" x 11") which creates a portrait orientation. Since a Double Close Gate Fold tucks in upon itself, the interior panels are shorter than the exterior panels. In this example, panels 2 and 3 (which form the outside of the folded brochure) are 4.3125" x 11". Panels 1 and 4 are 4.1875" x 11".
This option is ideal for larger sheets. It folds both vertically and horizontally to meet your specifications. Generally, only two panels are visible until the brochure is opened.
Please contact customer service to discuss your what you would like.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options.
This option creates four two-sided panels with the first fold horizontal and the second vertical. This creates a finished piece that is 1/4 the size of the printed sheet before being folded with the same orientation and aspect ratio the sheet had before folding. Commonly, this option is used to create four one-sided panels of information with a single, large graphic (such as a map) spanning the sheet on the reverse side when fully open.
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, an 8.5" x ll" brochure with a Quarter-Fold has a finished size of 4.25" x 5.5" which maintains a portrait orientation.
This option creates two two-sided panels with the fold on the left and oriented vertically. (If you would like the fold horizontal on the top, please look at Half-Fold.)
Each size refers to the flat sheet (horizontal by vertical), so the final size of your brochure will depend on folding options. For example, an 8.5" x 11" brochure with a Half-Fold has a finished size of 4.25" x 11" which maintains a portrait orientation.
- Quantity
- When to choose Offset
- Custom Orders
Quantity
The quantity available is dependent on the order specifications you choose. To see available quantities, complete all order specifications in the pricing calculator and click on the "Quantity" dropdown menu.
Due to our printing process, we print in specific quantity increments. If you would like an amount not listed in the pricing calculator, you have two options.
- Request a custom estimate for the specific quantity you need
- Order a larger quantity and ask us to ship only what you need
Ordering one of our specified quantities is generally more affordable than a custom estimate. Let us know how many units you would like shipped and we will recycle the excess for you. Simply choose the amount of items you would like recycled under the "shipping" section after placing your order.
For example, if you would like 700 units, you can order 1000 units and let us know you only want 700 shipped. We will responsibly dispose of the extras.
We typically print more than the quantity ordered. Because printing is a manufacturing process, the total finished quantity may vary. We usually ship a few more than you order, but sometimes quantities can vary +/- 5%. Standard industry procedure is to consider this range shipment in full.
When to choose Offset
4-Color Offset printing is ideal for lower prices on large quantity orders or any time you would like coating on your products.
Almost always, people choose this option when ordering large quantities.
Custom Orders
If you would like to order product options not available in the pricing calculator, simply request a custom estimate. To request a custom estimate, click "Estimates" at the top of the page.
In many cases, it is more affordable to order one of our specified quantities than to place a custom order. Custom orders are most commonly placed for order specifications that are not listed in the calculator.
If all your order specifications are available in the Pricing Calculator but you would like a quantity not listed in the dropdown menu, choose the next-highest quantity. Simply choose "recycle overages" in the shipping method section and we will responsibly recycle the extras.
For example, if you would like 700 units, you can order 1000 units and let us know you only want 700 shipped. We will responsibly dispose of the extras.
- Get Templates
- File Preparation
- File Orientation
- Bleed and Safe Area
- Proofs and File Check
Please Select Template Below:
PDF stands for Portable Document Format. This template can be imported into: InDesign, Quark Express, Illustrator, Corel Draw, and many other content creation programs.
JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group and is a basic raster file format. This template is recommended for Photoshop.
EPS stands for Encapsulated PostScript. This template is recommended for advanced Illustrator users only.
File Preparation
In order to ensure your files are print-ready, we recommend that you upload them in PDF format. When you generate a print-ready PDF, your computer will use the settings in Adobe Acrobat Distiller or any other PDF generating programs you may use. Please make sure that these are set properly before generating your PDF file.
If you are uploading PDF files created in Photoshop, please be sure all layers are flattened.
We also accept .JPG (JPEG), .EPS and .TIF (TIFF) file types, however PDF is the preferred format.
Check your file to make sure it meets our file creation guidelines. This will help speed up the production of your project and give your printed piece the best results.
- Use the CMYK colorspace (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, blacK). These are industry standard printing colors. CMYK colors are different than RGB (Red, Green, Blue), which are used to display colors on your screen.
- Use a minimum resolution of 300 dpi for image files.
- Specify trim area with crop marks. (Don't place crop marks inside the work area.)
- Artwork should have 1/8" (0.125") bleed extending past the trim line. This is to prevent minor cutting variations from leaving unintended results at the trim edge.
- Safe Area is the 1/8" (0.125") area inside the trim line. Do not put critical information or images within the Safe Area. This is to prevent minor cutting variations from leaving unintended results at the trim edge.
- If you want printed borders, they must be placed a minimum of 1/8" (0.125") inside the trim line and include bleed. This is to prevent minor cutting variations from leaving unintended results at the trim edge.
File Orientation
Please click the link below for an explanation of file orientation.
Bleed and Safe Area
We require that you extend any images that run up to the trim line a minimum of 1/8" (0.125") past the trim line to create "bleed". Depending on what program you use to create your file, this may or may not change the total image area of your file. Programs like Photoshop that do not allow the creation of "bleed" or the addition of crop marks will require an image area that is 1/4" (0.25") larger than your desired final overall image area in both dimensions.
Safe Area is the 1/8" (0.125") area inside the trim line. Do not put critical information or images within the Safe Area. This is to prevent minor cutting variations from leaving unintended results at the trim edge. If you choose to make less than this minimum clearance, we will NOT be responsible for items that are cut off in this area.
Proofs and File Check
We offer three proof options:
- Online PDF Proof: You will be sent a link to view your proof via email. Please keep in mind that this is only a proof for content and positioning; the color on your screen may vary from the color of your final product, depending on your monitor and viewing conditions.
- Hard Copy Proof: The Hard Copy Proof can either be picked up on-site or shipped to you. Please keep in mind that this is a proof for content and positioning and is not printed on your actual job stock. Color may vary slightly when printed on the stock you ordered. When ordering a Hard Copy Proof, you will receive a complimentary Online PDF Proof, as well.
- No Proof, Run As-Is: This option is for the industry professional who is certain their project is ready to hit the press and does not require the additional security of a proof.
File Check:
If our prepress department sees anything questionable with your file, we will contact you via email with our concerns. Should prepress email you, please note that your job is not considered fully submitted until you respond to this email. This should be factored into your turnaround time.File check does not apply to No Proof, Run As-Is. No Proof, Run As-Is jobs print from the exact file(s) you upload unless it is not possible to print because your supplied file does not match the specifications ordered.
How to check your Online PDF:
The black crop marks indicate the final trim size. The Red line ( Dashed ) indicates the (Score) The Green line ( Dashed ) indicates the (Perf). The Red Line (Solid) indicates the ( Cut or Trim ) line.
The verbiage on the file, this will indicate the page position after folding.
Please Note: The charge for our technical team to review your file when first submitted is included in the price of your order. If they note technical concerns with your file, they may email you with their concerns so you can upload a corrected file. If subsequent uploads still contain errors, you may be charged an additional prepress fee to review your file again.
- Custom Design
- Basic Logo Samples
- Corporate Logo Samples
- How to Use Custom Design Video
Custom Design
We create fully custom designs that help represent your company, brand or product in a professional way. Custom Design includes consulting to come up with a concept and design revisions, so you're truly part of the process. You can also add either a basic or corporate custom designed logo to your design.
There are 3 design packages to meet your needs:
1. Full Custom Design:
With this option you get complete, professional custom design for the product of your choosing. This includes consulting to discuss the concept, images, text, and revisions.
2. Full Custom Design plus a Basic Logo
With this option you get the complete design just like Custom Design Option 1 plus a basic logo. Basic logo design consists of a single font with a simple icon. See the examples under the "Logo Samples" tab.
3. Full Custom Design plus a Corporate Logo
With this option you get the complete design just like Custom Design Option 1 plus a corporate logo. Your corporate logo design has no limit to font styles so long as they are in our library. You also get a fully designed graphic to accompany your text. See the examples under the "Logo Samples" tab.
To see Custom Design pricing, number of images and revisions for this product, select "Custom Design" on the dropdown menu in the calculator and click the link underneath the menu.
Keep in mind that this price is estimated and includes limits on the amount of images and revisions that can be made before incurring additional charges. We will notify you prior to performing any services that cost more money.
Basic Logo Samples
Corporate Logo Samples
- Bookmarks
- Brochures / Flyers
- Blank Envelopes
- Brochures w/ Direct Mailing
- Brochures w/ Free Folding
- Business Cards
- Business Cards w/Round Corners
- Business Cards - Mini
- Business Cards w/Shapes
- Business Cards w/Free Shipping
- Fold-Over Business Cards
- Calendars
- Catalogs
- CD Inlays w/ Perf
- CD Inserts
- Club Flyers
- Custom Order
- Door Hangers
- DVD Inserts
- Envelopes
- Envelopes - Astrobright - Blank
- Second Sheets Blank
- Small Flyers
- Presentation Folders
- Greeting Cards
- Hang Tags
- Labels - Cut Sheet
- Labels w/ Shapes
- Letterhead
- Mini Menus
- Notepads
- Postcards
- Postcards w/ Direct Mailing
- Posters
- Rack Cards
- Table Tents
- Tear Cards
- Trading Cards
- Backlit Film
- Banner Stands
- Digital Posters
- Counter Cards
- Floor Graphics
- Mesh Banners
- Retractable Banner No Display
- Retractable Display With Banner
- Rider Signs
- Signage
- Spider Feet Stand Only
- Step and Repeat
- Stretched Canvas
- Vehicle Decals
- Vehicle Magnets
- Vinyl Banners
- Vinyl Labels
- Wall Decals
- White Canvas
- Window Cling
- Window Perf
- X-Frame Banner No Stand
- X-Frame With Banner
- Yard Signs
- Yard Signs Stakes
This is an example of the back of the envelope with flap.
Close this window and click the button to download a template.