Printing is often one of the last steps in a small business’s marketing process, but it’s also one of the most important. A professionally printed brochure, flyer, or postcard can leave a lasting impression on customers, just as easily as a poorly printed one can harm your brand and waste your budget. Below are common printing mistakes that cost small businesses both time and money, and how to avoid them.
- Sending Low-Resolution Images
Images pulled from websites or social media might look fine on a screen, but they’re rarely high enough quality for print. Low-resolution files lead to blurry, pixelated results that reflect poorly on your brand.
Fix: Use images that are at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) and check with your printing partner to confirm they meet print-ready standards.
- Incorrect Bleeds and Margins
A common printing issue occurs when important text or design elements are placed too close to the edge of the document. This can result in trimming errors and uneven borders.
Fix: Always follow bleed guidelines. Most commercial printers recommend a 1/8-inch bleed beyond the trim line and keeping all key content at least 1/4 inch inside the edge.
- Using RGB Instead of CMYK Color Mode
Digital files are often created in RGB (Red, Green, Blue), which is optimized for screens. However, printers use CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black), and colors may shift unexpectedly during conversion.
Fix: Convert your files to CMYK before submitting them to your printer. This gives you better control over how your final printed piece will look.
- Typos and Design Errors in Final Files
Nothing is more frustrating than catching a spelling error or incorrect price after 2,000 flyers have already been printed. Even small mistakes can be costly.
Fix: Always proofread thoroughly, and consider getting a second set of eyes on the project. Better yet, request a digital or printed proof before going to press. Printing companies will do their best to catch these errors but sometimes things slip through.
- Choosing the Wrong Paper Stock
Paper choice affects more than appearance. It impacts durability, readability, and even postage costs for mailers.
Fix: Talk with your commercial printer about the right paper stock for your project. For example, heavier stock may feel more premium, but lightweight paper can save on mailing costs.
- Overordering or Underordering
Small businesses sometimes print far too many copies and waste money on unused materials—or too few and run out mid-campaign.
Fix: Work with your printer to determine a realistic quantity based on your distribution plan and budget. Many printing companies offer flexible quantities to help manage costs.
- Skipping a Print-Ready File Check
Submitting files without a final review can lead to alignment issues, color errors, or unsupported fonts. All of which can delay your job and increase costs.
Fix: Ask your printing partner to perform a preflight check, or use provided templates to ensure your files are formatted correctly before submission.
Final Thoughts
Commercial printing offers powerful opportunities for small businesses to market themselves with impact. But without careful preparation, it can quickly become a source of wasted time and money. By avoiding these common mistakes and partnering with an experienced print provider, small businesses can ensure their materials reflect the quality of their brand and their budget.
Contact us with any of your printing needs!
For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/
And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com
