If you have never ordered commercial printing before, even the basics can feel like a test you did not study for. Which file? What size? Will it look like it does on screen?
These are the first time printing questions we hear most at the counter and in our inbox, answered plainly. If yours is not here, ask us. There is no such thing as a silly print question.
First time printing questions: do I need artwork?
Not necessarily. If you have a design ready, such as logo files, a finished layout or an export from an online design tool, send it and we will check it is print ready. If you do not have artwork, we can design it for you. Come with an idea of what you want and any files you have. Even a sketch on paper is a starting point.
There is a third option too: start from one of our design templates, which are set to each product's true print size, and add your own details.
What file format do you need?
A PDF is the safest choice for most jobs. For logos, vector files (.ai, .eps, .svg) are ideal because they scale without losing quality. High-resolution JPEGs and PNGs, 300 DPI at the printed size, work for photos and images. Our guide to preparing files for printing has the detail.
Before you order: check the file is the final size, the text is spelled right, phone numbers and web addresses are current, and images stay sharp when you zoom right in. Those four checks catch most problems.
How long does printing take?
Each product page shows an estimated turnaround based on our production lead times. Large format, apparel and more complex jobs can take longer, and design and proof rounds add time on top. If you have an event or opening, tell us the date early and order ahead. Our realistic printing timeline breaks it down.
Is there a minimum order?
It depends on the product. Business cards and stickers can be ordered in small quantities, apparel printed with DTF transfers suits small runs, and most signs are priced per item, so you can order a single banner or sign. The quantities available are shown on each product page, and we will tell you what makes the most sense for your job.
Will I see a proof before anything is made?
Yes, always. Every job gets a proof before production. You check the layout, wording, sizes and colours on screen, then tick to approve or ask for changes. Our local team checks every proof as well, looking for things like low resolution, missing bleed and text too close to the edge. Nothing is made until you approve.
Never rush the proof. It is your last chance to catch a wrong phone number.
Good to know: screens and printed materials show colour differently, so a proof is for checking layout, wording and sizing, not an exact colour match. If colour is critical, tell us your CMYK or Pantone values up front.
What if I do not like how it turned out?
If the finished product matches the approved proof, it is correct. If it does not match, such as the wrong colour, a printing error or a material defect, we will put it right. That is why the proof stage matters so much. Take your time and check everything before approving.
How much will it cost?
The cost of most print comes down to the same few things: quantity, size, material, finish and any design time. Every product on our website has live pricing on its page, so you can choose your options and see the total before you commit. Our guide to what printing really costs a small business explains what moves the number.
How do I get my order?
Everything is designed, proofed and managed from Bendigo, and made by trusted production partners. You can pick up from 2/176 Lyttleton Terrace, Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, or have it delivered. Your order shows an estimated ready date, so you know when to come in.
Common questions
What should I have ready before my first order?
Know what the piece is for, the size, how many you need, the date you need it by and who will approve the proof. Artwork helps, but it is not required.
Do you put up signs?
No. You measure and send us the sizes. Smaller signs, banners and decals are easy to put up yourself, and larger fixed signs are fitted by your builder or an installer you choose.
I do not have a logo. Can I still order print?
Yes. Many first orders start with a clean business name in a strong typeface. Our guide on whether you need a logo for commercial printing explains the options.
Can I order online?
Yes. Choose your options on the product page, upload artwork or ask us to design it, and pay a deposit online. Account customers order on their own terms.
Ready for your first order?
Start with our full print range, choose your options and see live pricing before you commit. If you would rather talk it through, drop in to Lyttleton Terrace.
