🖨️ Printing Tips & Guide
Get professional-quality invitation prints with our comprehensive printing guide.
📄 Paper Recommendations
Cardstock Weight Guide
- 65-80 lb (176-216 gsm): Lightweight - Good for RSVP cards or inserts
- 80-100 lb (216-270 gsm): Medium weight - Standard invitation weight
- 100-110 lb (270-300 gsm): Heavy weight - Premium invitations (Recommended)
- 110+ lb (300+ gsm): Extra heavy - Ultra-premium feel
Paper Finishes
Matte Finish
✓ No glare, easy to write on, sophisticated look
✓ Best for: Formal events, text-heavy designs
Glossy Finish
✓ Vibrant colors, photo-quality, eye-catching
✓ Best for: Photo invitations, colorful designs
Linen/Textured
✓ Elegant texture, premium feel, unique look
✓ Best for: Weddings, upscale events
Pearl/Shimmer
✓ Subtle shine, elegant, special occasion
✓ Best for: Weddings, formal celebrations
💡 Our Recommendation
For most invitations: 100 lb matte or linen cardstock provides the perfect balance of quality and affordability.
⚙️ Optimal Print Settings
Home Printing (Inkjet/Laser)
Quality: Best/High Quality
Color Mode: RGB Color (for home printers)
Paper Type: Select "Cardstock" or "Heavy Paper" in settings
Orientation: Match your design (usually Portrait)
Margins: Set to minimum (usually 0.25")
Print Preview: Always check before printing!
Professional Printing (Print Shop)
File Format: PDF (preferred) or high-res PNG/JPG
Color Mode: CMYK (for professional printing)
Resolution: 300 DPI minimum
Bleed: Add 0.125" bleed if cutting to size
Trim Marks: Request if needed for custom sizes
⚠️ Test Print First!
Always print one test copy on regular paper to check layout, colors, and text before printing on expensive cardstock.
📍 Where to Print
🏠 Home Printing
Pros:
- Most convenient and immediate
- Complete control over quality
- Easy to reprint if needed
- Cost-effective for small quantities (< 20)
Cons:
- Limited paper size options
- Ink costs can add up for large quantities
- Color accuracy varies by printer
- Need to buy cardstock separately
Best for: Small events (20-50 invitations), last-minute needs
🏢 Office Supply Stores (Staples, Office Depot, FedEx Office)
Pros:
- Professional-quality printers
- Wide paper selection available
- Same-day service often available
- Can cut to custom sizes
Cons:
- More expensive than home printing
- May need to visit in person
- Limited design assistance
Best for: Medium events (50-150 invitations), professional quality on a budget
💰 Cost: ~$0.50-$2 per invitation
🌐 Online Print Services (Vistaprint, Moo, Printful)
Pros:
- Best prices for bulk orders
- Highest quality printing
- Many paper and finish options
- Convenient upload and delivery
Cons:
- Takes 3-10 days for delivery
- Can't see/feel samples before ordering
- Minimum quantities may apply
- Shipping costs
Best for: Large events (100+ invitations), highest quality needs
💰 Cost: ~$0.30-$1.50 per invitation (quantity discounts)
🎨 Local Print Shop
Pros:
- Personalized service and advice
- Can see paper samples in person
- Support local business
- Custom options and finishing
Cons:
- Usually most expensive option
- May require appointment
- Turnaround varies by shop
Best for: Premium events, unique finishes, personalized service
💰 Cost: ~$1-$5 per invitation
🔧 Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Colors look different when printed
Solution:
- Screens display RGB colors; printers use CMYK
- Calibrate your monitor if possible
- Print a test page to check colors
- Adjust brightness/saturation if needed
Problem: Paper jams or won't feed
Solution:
- Check your printer's maximum paper weight
- Load smaller quantities (5-10 sheets at a time)
- Use manual feed tray if available
- Ensure paper isn't curled or damaged
Problem: Text is blurry or pixelated
Solution:
- Export at 300 DPI or higher
- Use PNG or PDF format (not JPG for text)
- Check print quality settings (use "Best")
- Clean printer heads if using inkjet
Problem: Design is cut off at edges
Solution:
- Check printer margins (most require 0.25" minimum)
- Use print preview before printing
- Adjust design to fit printable area
- Consider borderless printing if available
💰 Cost Comparison
| Method | 25 Invitations | 50 Invitations | 100 Invitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home (Inkjet) | $15-30 | $30-50 | $50-80 |
| Office Supply Store | $25-50 | $50-100 | $100-200 |
| Online Service | $20-40 | $30-60 | $40-100 |
| Local Print Shop | $50-125 | $100-250 | $200-500 |
* Prices are estimates and include paper costs. Actual costs vary by location and options.
⚡ Quick Tips
✓ Always print extras
Print 10-15% more than needed for mistakes and last-minute additions.
✓ Order paper samples
Most online services offer free sample kits so you can feel the quality.
✓ Print in batches
Do a small batch first to ensure everything is perfect before printing all.
✓ Consider envelopes
Make sure to buy matching envelopes - standard size is 5x7" or A7.
✓ Plan ahead
Allow 2-3 weeks for professional printing, including shipping and any reprints.
✓ Keep digital backups
Save your final design files in case you need to reprint or make changes.