Resources & Support

Have you ever had a question and either didn't know where to find the answer or were too afraid to ask? If so, you've come to the right place.

As the name would suggest, this section is a compilation of answers to the questions our clients commonly ask. Here you'll find answers to common questions our clients ask. Just start by following one of the links below.

1. How do I figure out the weight of the stock? There's 100# cover, 100# text, 10 point and all this other stuff!
2. How long does it take for you to complete my order?
3. What is a "proof"?
4. Why do I need to look at a proof if I've already given you everything I need to have done?
5. Do I still need to approve a proof if I bring my work in on disk?
6. How do I go about getting an estimate from you?

1. How do I figure out the weight of the stock? There's 100# cover, 100# text, 10 point and all this other stuff!
   Why is paper weight so confusing? Why is it so important? The stock you use for your poject will have a tremendous impact on the "look & feel" of your finished piece. To present your project in the best way, start with the correct stock for your application.
   
   Why are paper stock weights so confusing, anyway? Paper is manufactured in a huge variety of weights, colors, textures, and finishes, for many different purposes. European countries measure all types of paper in the same way: as grams per square meter (also referred to as GSM). The United States paper industry, however, uses several different designations, depending on the intended use of each type of paper:
   
   Book and text papers, used for booklets and fliers, are sized for commercial printing (25"x38").
   Bond papers, mostly for stationery and office use, are sized to be cut into four 8-1/2"x11" sheets (17"x22").
   Cover stock is sized for use as covers of journals and paperback books (20"x26").
   
   Each paper stock weight in the United States is based on 500 sheets of paper cut to the specified size. If your copier paper is "20lb bond," then 500 sheets of it, if cut to 17"x22", would weigh 20 pounds. If cut to 25"x38", it would be called "book paper" or "text paper," and it would weigh 50 pounds!
   
   To make it easier to figure out what equals what, we've provided a chart to show you the details. Click here to download the chart.
   
   
2. How long does it take for you to complete my order?
   There's no easy answer for this question. It depends on the quantity, finishing and stock requirements. Each project is handled by your account manager in specifics to your requirements and project timelines. We pride ourselves in being able to deliver faster than almost anyone else in the Twin Cities metro area. Contact your account manager today and find out how fast we are!
   
   
3. What is a "proof"?A proof is a way of ensuring that we have set your type accurately and that everything is positioned according to your requirements. Typically, we will produce a proof which will be sent to you online or printed on paper which can be viewed in our store or delivered to you in person.
   
   On multiple color jobs, we can produce a color proof on our color output device to show how the different colors will appear.
   
   
4. Why do I need to look at a proof if I've already given you everything I need to have done?
   We employ human beings to produce your work and, last time we checked, humans are not perfect. Your approval on the final proof is assurance that you have looked over every aspect of our work and approve it as accurate. It benefits everyone if errors are caught in the proofing process rather than after the job is completed and delivered.
   
   
5. Do I still need to approve a proof if I bring my work in on disk?
   That's up to you. For color critical work we recommend to all of our clients to review the proof before commiting to final production. We also work with clients to establish brand standards for PMS and color matches. Work with your account manager on what's best for you and your project.
   
   
6. How do I go about getting an estimate from you?
   Well, since you are here, we would suggest you use our online estimate request form. Otherwise, the best way to ensure that we get all the information necessary to do an accurate quote, give us a call and talk with one of our account managers.