How to Reduce the Cost of Printing Your Logo: A Simple Guide

Recently, our MD, Ben, got an enquiry about an umbrella - the Spectrum Sport to be precise; known for its branding versatility in that you can customise almost every part of it. After putting all the details on our system, Ben sent out the quote as requested. After 15 minutes, he received a call from the customer wanting clarification on why the prices quoted were different to the ones on our website. Ben had to explain that the prices on our website are for the simplest option - 1 colour print on 1 panel only - and the request was for full colour print onto four of the panels. Because questions like this pop up every now and then, I decided to write up a simple guide explaining what determines cost differences and how to get the best deal if you do have some room for manoeuvre in your logo choices.

This umbrella is designed for maximum customisation, meaning costs can vary depending on how elaborate your want your branding

What is 1 Spot Colour?

Most prices on our website are based on 1 spot colour print. A spot colour is a single block of any colour of your choice, without any gradients. Any such block of colour is counted as a separate colour, even if they are shades within the same colour group. The reason for this classification is because spot colours are usually printed using screens. Each shade needs to have a separate screen created to transfer it onto your promotional item. Even if your logo is made up of sky blue and royal blue - they will need to be put onto the item separately - often with a drying time in between applying each shade. Because of this application process, the smaller the number of spot colours in your logo, the cheaper it is to print. Less screens, less changes in setting up the machine and less drying time will mean cost savings for you.

Choosing fewer colours for your branded gift will keep costs down

What About Full Colour Printing?

When your artwork consists of more than just a few blocks of colour, e.g. your logo has gradients of colour or it is a photographic image - the above guidelines become irrelevant. We don’t create separate screens for each colour - as the effect would not be as vivid and crisp as you'd have hoped. Instead, we use another printing technique - e.g. digital print, dye sublimation or lithographic printing. The process we use depends on the promotional item and we always choose one that will achieve best effects to reproduce your logo. Because full colour printing is done without creating multiple screens, and because of the different printing methods used, full colour is cost effective - and may even be cheaper than spot colour printing. The cost varies for each item and we will always confirm these details before your order is placed to make sure you get the best deal.

Photographic images like this are often printed using digital or lithographic printing

How Do Positions Change the Cost?

In the example from the beginning of this article, the client wanted printing on 4 panels. Each of these is counted as a position. A position is the placement of your printing on the promotional item. Most gifts can only be printed in one position but many can be customised in more than one place. Umbrellas usually have 8 panels and each can be printed with a logo. You can also print on the strap that holds the umbrella panels together when it is closed. Another place is the handle of the brolly.

Each of these positions will increase the cost a little so you need to be aware of that when you are price conscious.

All pens can be printed on the barrel, i.e. the body of the pen. Some can also take branding on the clip or the tip. Flat keyrings can sometimes be printed on both sides. The list goes on. To keep the cost down, it's useful to reduce the positions your logo is printed on.

Does Size Matter?

The simple answer is no... usually. For printing, the price is the same regardless of how big your logo is. The only time size, rather than the number of colours, determines the price, is when you go for embroidery - on garments or bags. Larger embroideries use up more thread and take longer to apply. This is why, to keep the cost of your promotional clothing down, think of reducing the size of your logo.

5 Simple Tips to Reduce Your Corporate Gifts Cost

To save money, follow these simple tips:

1. Whenever possible, try to keep your artwork to just one colour.
2. If it's not possible, you may want to consider printing your logo in full colour - always ask if this will produce good enough results for your artwork.
3. Print on just one position or at least try to limit the print positions.
4. Don't worry about using the full print area of your chosen print position - it does not cost any extra!
5. When branding clothing or bags with embroidery, keep the size smaller.

Remember that we always try to give you the best deal on your product and your logo. We always advise if there are any issues with your artwork and choose the best branding method to achieve the best print quality.