Frequently Asked Questions

How is that Koolprint.com offers such low prices?

Internet Marketing & Sales allows us to keep our overhead costs down allowing us to pass the savings directly to our customers. We leverage our volume printing position to drive the cost down.

What Printing Process is used at Koolprint.com?

After each order is placed, our Professional Graphic Arts department reviews it. We make any necessary adjustments needed for best professional results such as re-touching the graphic files to meet the best quality standards etc. All full color printing is done using four ink colors; Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black, it is also known as CMYK. Most full color commercially printed material is produced using CMYK. We use Litho Printing, the most common type of printing process in the commercial print industry. We always use high quality paper and card, as you would expect from a leading commercial printing company.

What is Hexachrome™?

Hexachrome™ is an ultra high fidelity six-color printing process developed by Pantone, Inc. Pantone has drawn on extensive research in colour systems to develop their HiFi system. Hexachrome™ provides dramatically improved color range and accuracy over four-color process printing. Hexachrome™ is a fully-integrated process with a complete support infrastructure, provided by Pantone* and its technology partners, that includes a special ink set, design software, separations, proofing, and, the Pantone* Hexachrome™ Color Selector, a critical reference guide for the System

What are the advantages of Hexachrome™?

Hexachrome™ can achieve a considerably wider range of color than standard four-color process printing. No longer are designs compromised by the inherent limitations of four-color process printing. With Hexachrome™, designers can now more closely render in print what can be conceived in their mind. The Hexachrome™ color gamut can achieve what is seen on high quality computer displays, a longtime desire of designers. In addition to reproducing more brilliant continuous-tone images, Hexachrome™ is capable of simulating over 90% of solid Pantone* Matching System Colors, almost twice the number that can be obtained using conventional four-color process printing. Using only six colors, Hexachrome™ provides more flexibility and a broader color gamut than other HiFi models utilizing seven or even eight colors due to the purity of the Hexachrome™ primary inks.

What are the colors used in Hexachrome™?

The special ink set developed by Pantone*, Inc. is purer than traditional ink sets and consists of enhanced versions of the subtractive primaries yellow, magenta and cyan, along with black, vivid orange and green. In addition to utilizing the six-color set to print in Hexachrome™, the CMYK components can be utilised for four-color jobs with enhanced results while minimising press preparation time between CMYK and Hexachrome™ jobs.

What are the applications for Hexachrome™?

Hexachrome™ is for anyone who wants to significantly increase the impact of their printed visual communications. Examples of applications which would benefit significantly from Hexachrome include: packaging, point-of-purchase displays, catalogues, posters, annual reports and magazines.

Yes. Hexachrome™ was designed to work with both. When utilizing conventional screening, the same screen angle is assigned to colors which don't print together in order to avoid moire patterns.

How much better is the color reproduction in Hexachrome™ compared to CMYK printing process?

The overall color gamut offered by Hexachrome™ far exceeds what is achievable in traditional four-colour process or CMYK printing process

How do I provide artwork/graphics?

As you design your product using our graphics studio, you can upload and view your graphics on-line. If for some reason you experience any difficulty, please send us your graphic file to support@koolprint.com

Are there any additional costs for processing uploaded images or Graphic Design work?

KoolPrint.com has absolutely NO hidden charges! The Product Prices are fixed and will have NO additional fees.

What kind of Graphic files can I use?

You can use the following file formats when designing on-line: BMP, JPG, GIF and PNG. We don't allow file sizes larger than 5 Megabytes to be uploaded.

What resolution should be my graphics file?

For best printing results, please make sure that your image file resolution should be 250 to 300 DPI (Dots Per Inch).

What happens after I place my order?

Once you design your stationery and place an order, our graphics department will re-touch, re-design or re-finish the ordered stationery for best quality results.

What if my image file is not 250-300 DPI?

No need to worry. Each and every order processed through Koolprint.com is checked and re-checked by our professional graphic arts department. Any image not meeting the professional printing quality will be enhanced or re-touched to ensure that it will be of professional quality.

Will my printed product look the same as I view on my screen when I design it using Koolprint.com?

If you need any help designing your item, our graphic designers would be pleased to assist you. Just give us a call or send an email to graphics@koolprint.com to find out more.

How do I know my printing will be of good quality?

Our quality control team checks every order before dispatch to ensure it meets our strict quality standards, but you are also covered by our guarantee.

Is it safe to order online?

Yes, your transaction is completely secured. We use trusted service of VERISIGN to process all credit card transactions.

What forms of payment does KoolPrint.com accept?

the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Sorry, we do not accept personal checks or COD's.

How much do you charge for shipping/handling and what shipping options are available?

KoolPrint.com offers following shipping options and options may vary on each product:

Does white count as a printing color ?

No. White does not typically count as a color due to the fact that this is the color of the paper in most cases.

How do I prepare my text for the printer ?

Adobe PDF is the preferred text format used by most printers. It works with virtually all image setters, plate setters and digital output devises. Most popular file formats, including MS Word, Word Perfect, MS Publisher are easily converted to PDF. PDF is a "locked" format so there is no problem with re-flow when the files are opened on different computers. PDF can be read on any PDF reader which are free at the Adobe website.

How long will a screen print last ?

Unlike a transfer which is applied on top of a garment, screen printing penetrates the fibers which lasts as long as the garment itself.

How well will a pre-press proof match what I see on my monitor ?

Due to the wide differences in monitor calibration and the different technologies used, some printed colors in your proof may not exactly match the colors on your monitor. Make sure to always ask the printer if they have any suggestions on color matching.

What type of label is best for outdoor and industrial applications ?

Labels intended for outdoor use need to be durable and have the ability to hold up to a wide variety of different weather conditions. Vinyl and polyester are top material choices for outdoor conditions. The matte finish on the vinyl media helps reduce glare, while the polyester's glossy finish creates a sharp, shiny image. Bumper stickers are, typically, made of vinyl. Often outdoor labels or industrial labels require a UL listing. UL recognition ensures that a device, system or material has been tested and certified by this private organization to meet specific safety standards. The three primary tests to determine film and adhesive performance are a heat age test, outdoor weather ability, and exposure to various solutions. CSA is another testing organization devoted to establishing standards for safety, quality and performance. Unlike UL, which recognizes a substrate's adhesion to specific individual surfaces, CSA recognizes nine substrate groups for applied labels. Silk screening or special inks may be required to help with the fading of inks.

What are color separations ?

A color separation is an image that defines where one specific color will be printed. Colors can be mixed by overlapping areas of different color separations, so that one ink is applied on top of the other. By combining this technique with halftones, many variations of colors are made possible..

What are embossed or de-bossed invitations?

Embossing or de-bossing refers to the surface of the paper being either raised or lowered.

What are Halftones ?

A halftone is a way of using a stencil to mimic shading of a color. This can be done using patterns of small dots, diamonds, squares, or lines. As you lose focus on the pattern, your eye blends the colors of nearby dots and background to make a new color.

What are monograms ?

Commonly seen on personal invitations and letterhead. Personal monograms are initials traditionally representing the first, middle and last name.

What are the common sizes for catalogs and booklets ?

Most commercial printers will offer your catalog or booklets in these standard sizes 5-1/2" x 8-1/2", 8-1/2" x 11", 8-1/2" x 11, or 11 x 17.

What are the different types of bindings I can use for my multi-page projects ?

1. Perfect binding:
Gluing the outside edge of the signatures to create a flat edge.

2. Saddle-stitch binding:
Uses one or more staples on the fold of the signature.

3. Side-stitch binding:
Stapling the signatures together on the side rather than the fold.

4. Case binding:
Signatures are sewn together and attached to the hard cover.

5. Plastic comb binding:
Plastic teeth are fitting into a stack of pages.

6. Three-ring binding:
Holes are punched into the pages and fitted into a binder..

What are the grades of paper and the basis weight of each ?

The standard weight of a paper is defined by the weight of 500 standard-sized sheets in pounds. These are the different grades of paper and their respective basis weights.

Bond :
Usually reserved for letterheads, business forms, and quick printing jobs. 16# for forms, 20# for copying, and 24# for stationary.

Text:
A high-quality sheet with a lot of texture. Ranges in weight from 60# to 100#, but the most common weights are 70# or 80#

Uncoated Book:
The most common sheet for offset printing. Usually a 50# to 70# stock.

Coated Book:
A glossy sheet that yields vivid colors and excellent reproduction. Generally goes from 30# to 70# for web, 60# to 110# for sheet fed.

Cover:
Used for book covers, postcards, and business cards. Coated or uncoated. Come in 60#, 65#, 80# or 100# weights.

What are the most common card stocks used in postcards ?

The three most popular card stocks offered by printers are:
1. #100 lb. cover, c2s (coated two sides) is probably the most popular.
2. #100 lb. c1s (coated one side) is ideally suited for postcard mailing.
3. #12 Point c2s (coated two sides) is a luxurious premium sheet with brilliant finish .

What are the most popular sizes for personalized note pads ?

4 x 6, 5-1/2 x 8-1/2, and 8-1/2 x 11 are the three most popular sizes for personalized note pads.

What are the postal requirements for my envelopes ?

It is important to keep in mind U.S. Postal Service requirements when designing your envelopes.

All mail .25 inches thick or less must be:
1. Rectangular in shape,
2. At least 3.25 inches high, and
3. At least 5 inches long.

A mail piece must be at least .007 (7 pt.) inches thick when it does not exceed 4.25 inches in height and 6 inches in length.

A mail piece must be at least .009 (9 pt.) inches thick if it is either greater than 4.25 inches in height or greater than 6 inches in length or both.

What are the standard sizes for brochures ?

There are three standard sizes of brochures 8 1/2x11, 8 1/2x14, and 11x17

What are the standard substance weights for envelopes ?

16 lb. Used for overseas air mail envelopes. "
20 lb. Used for commercial envelopes where strength and opacity is not a factor. "
24 lb. Used for most open side official and commercial envelopes. "
28 lb. Used for most open and catalog envelopes and large (i.e. 11, 12 and 14) size commercial envelopes. "
32 lb. Used for heavy duty envelopes and clasp envelopes. "
40 lb. Used for large envelopes, heavy duty envelopes or envelopes used for storage and frequent reference

What determines the price of a label ?

Square surface area
Type of material
Custom or generic
Number of colors
Total quantity of order .

What does (4 over 1) or (4 over 4) mean ?

4 over 1 refers to full color on the front and black & white on the back. 4 over 4 refers to full Color on both the front and back.

What does the book printer mean by trim size ?

The trim size refers to the actual size of the finished book.

What does the gutter refer to in book printing ?

The gutter is the space between the printed area and binding (AKA margins). Make sure your gutter corresponds to the binding being used.

What is a color bleed ?

A "color bleed" is the result of placing different colors of ink adjacent to each other. As the ink is squeegee across the stencil, the colors "bleed" together. This is not a bad thing. Normally it is done intentionally for effect.

What is a motif and how is it used in invitations and letterhead ?

Motifs are small designs printed on invitations and letterhead. Often, a motif is a single recurring design throughout a person's personal, business or wedding stationery.

What is cover stock ?

A term used by paper manufacturers for a heavy paper that is suitable for catalogs and other folders. Cover stock can come in "coated" which has a smooth surface, or "uncoated" in its original rough surface.

What is dpi ?

Dots per Inch. The measurement of resolution for page printers, photo type setting machines and graphics screens. Graphics screens usually reproduce 60 to 72 dpi, most page printers 300 dpi, and typesetting systems 1,000 dpi.

What is engraving ?

One of the oldest and most elegant processes for printing. Engraving involves etching the text onto a copper plate. During the printing process, the plate is coated with ink and then compressed onto the paper, creating the printed text in a slightly raised impression. Engraved stationery is considered to be the epitome of good taste and sophistication. The process is relatively expensive but the finished product is first-rate.

What is greeting card scoring ?

This process involves partially cutting through the greeting card so it will fold more neatly.

What is screen-printing ?

Screen-printing is a print process where a design or logo is transferred to the substrate by way of a screen. The printer will transfer the inks through the screen to the garment to achieve the desired result. The process involves exact pressures, specialized inks, and heat curing to result in a long lasting design. Screen printers can normally print up to four colors.

What is the difference between 100# text stock and 14pt card stock ?

100# text is measured in weight. 14 pt is measured in thickness. It can be hard to differentiate between the two unless you know both weight and thickness. The size paper comes from the mill is called "parent" or "basis" size, and it differs for different kinds of paper. This is why "80# cover" is heavier than "100# text." The point system, on the other hand, measures paper thickness, not weight, and is typically used with coated papers. Make sure you ask the printer before they begin your work.

What is the difference between coated and uncoated stock ?

Uncoated stock is a rough porous type of paper. It is normally used in newspapers and tends to be less expensive. Coated stock has a smooth glossy finish. Printing on this type of paper will sharpen your text and graphic layouts. Coated stock, however, can be a bit more expensive.

What is the most effective way to design a brochure ?

1. Define the purpose of the brochure: Is it for attention or simplicity? Do you want to grab the reader's attention or do you want them to easily understand a message.
2. Simplify your message: Break down any long articles, simplify text by adding tables and charts.
3. Use selective emphasis: Reserve emphasis for the most important parts of your message. Add visual contrast by using larger typeface or graphics.
4. Keep the design simple: Use a few colors and fonts. Don't overdo it.
5. Use a single illustration on the cover.
6. Make your brochure worth keeping: Encourage the consumer to keep it handy.

What is the Pantone Matching System ?

The Pantone Matching System, also known as the PMS color system, is a popular color matching system used by the printing industry to print specific colors. PMS match book are book of color where each PMS color has its own name or number that helps you make sure that your colors are the same each time you print, even if your monitor displays a different color or if you change printing services..

What is the standard window measurement for business envelopes ?

The window in most commercial business envelopes is 1-1/8 x 4-1/2.

What materials can labels be made from ?

1. Paper-Uncoated: Uncoated paper can be written on by hand or by machine.
2. Paper-High Gloss: High gloss paper provides good printability, not for hand writing.
3. Vinyl: Vinyl is best for an outdoor environment or if the label is to be applied to a vinyl surface.
4. Acetate: Acetate is best for a clear look.
5. Mylar/Polyester: Mylar/polyester is best for a label applied to an object with sharp corners

What type of envelope should I use ?

1. Business Envelopes: Regular, Window, Booklet, Clasp, and Printed Business.
2. Square Envelopes: Colored Square and Regular Square.
3. Social & Invitation: Square Flap, Pointed Flap, Black Square, Foil Lined, and Colored Translucent.
4. Colored Envelopes: Commercial, Open End, Booklet, Square, and Clasp.
5. Specialty Envelopes: Coin, Full Face Window, Florist, Airmail, and CD envelopes.
6. Shipping and Packaging Envelopes: Paperboard, Tyvek, Corrugated, Bubble, and Plastic.

What type of material can I print my banner or sign on ?

There are several substrates (materials) the printer can use for your sign or banner. Here are a few of the most popular by category.

1. Flexible Substrates: Vinyl, Polyethylene, Nylon, or Mesh.
2. Rigid substrates: Styrene, Foam, Aluminum, or Masonite.
3. Specialty fabrics: Satin, Polyester, or Canvas.

What's the difference between die-cut and butt-cut ?

Die-cut labels have round corners and spacing between each label on the roll.
Butt-cut labels have square corners and no spacing between each label on the roll. .

What's the difference between "spot colors" and "four color process ?

Spot colors are not blends of colors that create other colors but individual colors that can be assigned PMS (Pantone Matching System) numbers.

How do I apply Static Cling?

Applying a static cling is easy. The most important step is to clean the surface thoroughly before application. Use a commercial window cleaner and a clean dry cloth. Using the sleeve of your shirt or plain water is not adequate. Follow this procedure even if you are applying it on the inside of your vehicle window. Interior windows build up a film that you might not be able to see on the glass but most times you will see dirt on the paper towel or cloth. This is especially true if anyone smokes in your vehicle. If you window is extra dirty, clean it twice. Even if you have just returned from a car wash or just hand washed the car yourself, please be sure to clean the surface area with a commercial window cleaner just prior to application to insure best results.