Are you thinking of entering the business of commercial printing? It’s actually a very good idea, but is one that can prove to be extra-challenging. With so many printing companies out there, it’s not going to be enough that you know the basics of the business. Of course it remains fundamental and integral, but at the same time, you would have to keep up with the rapidly-changing developments in technology, as well as creativity, in order to outdo and outsmart everyone else out there.
For starters, you should know the basics that go on in a commercial printing business. Essentially, it is defined as that method of putting artwork on any paper surface, such as posters, tarpaulins, brochures, fliers, and more. This is commonly used by professionals for advertising and marketing jobs, although today, more and more people are looking to be able to use it for their own personal projects.
The process of commercial printing involves the use of heavy machinery. Aluminum plates are used for the pressed out version of the desired artwork to be printed. These aluminum plates usually have on designated primary color, which are CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black). Then, the plates will be wrapped around huge cylinders, which then enables to colors to fill in the cuts on the plates. There are many more technical aspects in to pressing an artwork, but essentially, the machine takes on the task of mixing and measuring the colors on the plate, and from there, the artwork is printed on the paper.
Machines required for commercial printing does not, by any means, come cheap. After all, it is considered to be an industrial equipment. Should you want to invest in one, you can try scouting around for smaller models first. Most likely, you wouldn’t need the heavy duty ones yet, if you’re just starting to learn the tricks of the trade. You can always upgrade later on anyway, if you feel you’re more ready for the big leagues.
Before diving into the business of commercial printing by buying all those equipment, you should also at least know the basic must’s for its maintenance. What do you do when a plate gets jammed, or if you run out of ink? You cannot simply shrug these details off, because you must keep in mind it cost you a whole lot of cash to get that machine. It doesn’t even matter if it’s second-hand or third, or fourth. It’s expensive, plain and simple. What’s more, getting it repaired is just as expensive too. So be sure to take good care of it.
When you’re done going through all the primary functions and basic know-how as to what to do with your commercial printing business, then it’s time to turn that sign on your door to “Welcome”, so you can get going with running your business. Again, just be sure to be on the keen lookout for the competition. They’ve got an edge you’d want to have for your own, so don’t forget to flex those creative muscles too.
