While we try to make ordering custom printed products as easy and hassle-free as possible, everyone has questions about the process. Here is a run-down of the most frequently asked custom printing questions, with lots of useful answers and information:
My image won't upload? Help! - It could be that your file size is too large, try reducing it to between 3-5 megabytes. We have tested the uploading system to work well with all browsers, but occasionally a configuration won't work. If your image won't upload after repeated attempts, send it directly to this e-mail address, and we will take care of your order manually for you.
There is no confirmation that my image uploaded. - The confirmation is your Print ID. If your image came through properly, it will be assigned a Print ID, which will then go directly into your shopping cart after you select the options for your card or print products. If we have any problem with your image that was uploaded, we will contact you prior to printing.
What is the Print ID? - When your image(s) have uploaded successfully, you will get a Print ID. This identifies your order, and allows it to go directly into your online shopping cart, after you have selected your products and options.
My file size is very high resolution and won't upload. - Any file size larger than about 10 megabytes is unnecessary, and will be blocked as too large by many e-mail programs. As long as your resolution is set to 300 dpi, your images will print sharp.
My images came out blocky or blurry. - This is caused by the opposite problem, a resolution set too low. We need 300 dpi to print your images clearly. If your images are blurry to begin with, your prints will come out blurry, so be sure to submit clear, sharp images.
I uploaded files, but never received any cards or prints. - Uploading files to us does not mean you have placed an order. You have to select your card or print product, pick out your options, add the finished product with Print ID to your shopping cart, then check-out and pay for your order.
I want to order 1 card or print. - In order to keep our prices low, we have minimum orders for custom printed products. Our minimum orders are quite small, and allow you to order cards and prints in short run, maximing your profit and storage space.
The color of my prints doesn't match what I wanted. - We don't do any color correction of your uploaded files. What we get is what we print. If your image has a color cast, it was because that is in the file that you sent. Critical color matching is not offered for our short run online products - all colors are approximate matches. We do offer design services, which include color correction. That is an additional hourly charge, inquire here
The image appears stretched or squeezed. - This is because the file was not sized properly for the product you purchased, or the aspect ratio of the image was significantly different than the card/print size that you chose. Our uploader system allows you to see exactly what your product will look like before we print.
There is a white border around my image that I did not want. - Our real-time uploader system allows you to position and stretch your image so that it fills up the entire card. Refer to the uploader instructions.
What is a bleed? - A bleed is when your image comes directly to the edge of the card or print, with no white borders on the edges. Our uploader system allows you to easily create bleeds or borders of any size.
How do I measure my images properly? - Refer directly to our Custom Printing Ordering Instuctions page for details on how to use our real-time uploading system.
What is the minimum quantity of cards or prints that I can order? - In order to keep our prices low, we have a small minimum order, depending upon the size of prints or cards that you order. We specialize in short run printing, so unlike other printers, you can order in small quantities, maximizing your profit and your shelf space.
Do your cards come with envelopes? - Yes, all of our custom card orders come with matching size acid-free envelopes.
Do your custom printed cards come folded? - Yes, your cards will be scored and folded.
Are your inks and papers archival? - We use only acid-free papers and card stock for our custom printed products. Our inks are actually polymerized toners, which resist fading, cracking, streaking and smudging. They are superior quality for our reasonably priced printing products.
I wanted printing on the back of my cards, and there isn't any. What happened? - Our custom printed cards have the option of free printing on the backs of the cards. However, we need an image file for this, just like for the front of the cards. It needs to be sized the same, with whatever graphics/fonts/text/pictures that you want printed.
What is the turn-around time for printing? - Depending upon our volume, it varies between 1-5 business days before shipping. If you have a deadline, please send us a note in our Comment Box at check-out, and we will make sure that your order meets your timeline.
Can I get a sample of your custom printing before making a large purchase? - Yes, just give us your name and shipping information, and what product you are interested in, and we will get a sample out to you for inspection.
Do you accept returns on custom printing products? - Since these are custom products that are printed to your specifications, no returns are accepted.
What are Print/Card Combo Packs? - As part of our mission to provide everything you need to showcase your creativity, our new Print Combo Packs are a complete display solution for your images. The Combo Packs for cards includes custom printed cards, envelopes, crystal clear plastic boxes, and elegant elastic stretch loops for a finishing touch. The Print Combo Packs include your custom printed images, an archival mat perfectly sized to your image, a matching size piece of acid-free foam core backing and a crystal clear sleeve. All Combo Packs come pre-assembled as well, all ready to go for retail display racks, art shows and internet sales.
Can I get printed or digital proofs of my card design before ordering? - Yes, both printed and e-mail proofs can be sent to you before you make a purchase, upon request. Simply upload your image and send us an e-mail with your inquiry. Printed proofs are $10 each, plus shipping, and e-mail proof service is $5. We will contact you regarding your proof requests.
My card designs need some help before printing. Do you offer design service? - Absolutely, we have a team of designers here to help you acheive a professional image. From color correction, to image editing, text and font placement to proper resizing of image, we can help. All design service is done on an individual basis, and is charged on an hourly basis. Just click here to send us a design service e-mail inquiry.