15 Cool Photo Printing Ideas To Explore

Modern printing ideas work best when the latest techniques are utilized. There are numerous printing methods out there to choose from but if you want your product to look stylish and trendy, here are 15 cool printing ideas to explore:

1. Print on frames

Printing ideas for frames is a great way to transform ordinary photos into funky pop art frames and pictures.

2. Custom guitar graphics

You can make your guitar stand out by personalizing it using graphics that match your
personality.

3. Printable paper CD cases

You do not have to spend hundreds on jewel cases for your CD. Use your printer to produce as
many paper CD cases that you need at an affordable price.

4. Print your toys

These printing ideas are great if you have little ones and like building models. You can print out
fantastic images of buildings, cars or any other things that may interest you.

5. Custom printed mirrors

If you have a lot of mirrors in your business, you can make them look different by printing
interesting graphics on the mirrors.

6. Clothing tags

Printing ideas on clothing tags is a great way to brand your products and ensure that your brand is easily recognizable.

7. Keyboard wraps

Because laptop skins are easily accessible and ubiquitous nowadays, it is easy to create your own unique designs by creating keyboard wraps.

8. Canvas Prints

Turn your pictures easily into a work of art with canvas prints. They are easy to do and they look
great especially if a high-resolution image used.

9. 3D sculptures

Creating 3D sculptures is one many great printing ideas that contain complicated patterns can now be done easily thanks to new printing technology.

10. 4D objects

Also one of several high tech printing ideas is 4D printing which is all about using smart technology to create models that you would never have thought of before.

11. Print cutouts

Cutouts are ideal if you want to spice things up in your space or your business location. You can
print cut outs of almost anything including images of your face.

12. Print on magnets

Who does not love magnets? Printing your brand on magnets can assist to ensure that your brand exposure is consistent and repeated.

13. Print murals on walls

If you have a lot of blank real estate on your wall or home, you can use the wall space for a
mural your wall or on a frosted glass door.

14. Print on a unique substrates

Since technology has come a long way, you can now print on unique substrates such as on
aluminum or max metal sign.

15. Use white ink

Very few people use white ink. This basically means printing your image on a white background
which will create an illusion of white ink.

8 Step Freezer Paper Printing Tips

Freezer paper is the type of material that is used for purposes of freezing food. It usually has a
paper side on the top and a shiny one on the bottom. Freezer paper printing comes in very handy when you need to print graphics on fabrics. Freezer paper helps you avoid printer jams, which can be an issue of concern when you do not prepare your fabric properly for the printing process. Freezer paper is inexpensive and easy to use and best of all, it can be re-used over and over again. For freezer paper printing, it is appropriate for use on standard fabric such as cotton or silks or on hard to use fabric such as burlap.

How to use freezer paper printing

If you already understand how to print on regular paper, then you should not have any issue
using freezer paper. Nowadays, freezer paper is conveniently sized which makes it easy to just
pop it in your inkjet printer so that you can transfer your favorite image. You should always
place the shiny side down before you print your image.

Change the printing options box

If you typically use regular A4 paper for freezer paper printing, be sure to change the printing option box. You need to also adjust the clips that secure your paper in the printer’s tray so that they can fit properly. Remember to change the options back when you revert to using A4 paper.

Printing on a laser printer

If you are planning on using your freezer paper with your inkjet printer, be careful because laser
printers have a tendency to get hot. Therefore, you must always use protection to ensure that the printed version comes out seamlessly.

Multi-part designs with freezer paper

When using your freezer paper with a multi-part graphic design, it is always a good idea to iron
the largest part onto the fabric in the position that you want it to be and then try and position the smaller pieces later. When positioning, arrange your parts from largest to smallest and once
every part of the design is in place, you can iron it properly to make certain everything is as it
should be.

Prevent freezer paper curling

You can prevent your freezer paper from curling or fold up by using a heavy object such as a
heavy paperback book for a few hours before finally printing. If you want to use your freezer
paper immediately, consider flattening with an iron box before feeding it into your printer.
Alternatively, you can iron the freezer paper with the shiny side down to a piece of regular
printing paper to stiffen and flatten it.

Printing Your Calligraphy

When it comes to deciding how you want to address your envelopes, incorporating printing your calligraphy can be a great option. Calligraphy can be handwritten as per tradition or it can be digitally printed. Printing your calligraphy digitally is a great idea because it allows you to save time, money and energy.

Additionally, printing does not limit you to the number of colors that you can use in one piece
and it is also a great way to reproduce different types of calligraphy when you are unable to
handwrite your calligraphy designs yourself.

Printing calligraphy

There are two main digital printers used for printing your calligraphy mainly digital and inkjet.
Although both will serve you well, laser printers can handle graphics better than inkjet printers.
The downside is that inkjets are more expensive up front but the price will eventually make sense as you do not have to keep replacing your ink cartridges as is the case with inkjet printers.

The overall design of your calligraphy will give your recipients the idea of your style as well as
how formal or informal you want the style to be. The methods that you use will impact the paper type you pick and the constraints on colors and final budget. Outlined below are various printing methods for calligraphy to consider:

Engraved calligraphy

With engraved calligraphy, the lettering and the graphics that you decide to incorporate will be
raised on the surface with indentations at the back. To achieve this, the paper that you utilize will have to be pressed against an inked plate etched with a recessed image of your calligraphy
design.

Engraving works best with thick and heavy duty paper so that the engraved bots come be as
pronounced as possible. It also requires dark backgrounds and light colors to make the design
crisp and beautiful.

Foil stamping

Foiling stamp does not use ink but uses heated copper plates instead. Foil calligraphy stamping is ideal if you are dealing with a matte or metallic finish.

Thermography

Thermography is very similar to engraving. However, the result is typically a lot shinier because
of the resin and ink that is used. Most people prefer engraved calligraphy printing over
thermography because it is generally less complicated. Additionally, with thermography, it is
impossible to print large images or print them one more than one side.

Letterpress

Letterpress printing also forms indentations on the paper. This type of printing your calligraphy
requires thick but soft papers so that the indentation can be made easily. If you are using more
than one color, each color has to use a separate plate, which will cost more in the long run.

Don’t forget to check out our available colors in store.

What Every Office Needs To Know About Printing Envelopes

Printing envelopes are not given much attention yet envelopes are definitely the unsung heroes of stationery. They play such an important role, particularly in shipping, that they deserve more thought and consideration. The type of envelope that you pick reflects your brand so it is essential to ensure that what you pick represents your product in the right manner.

Envelopes communicate non-verbal concise visual messages so you should use envelopes that
reflect your personality and brand. The next time you are deciding which envelope to use, here
are some things you should keep in mind:

The type of material for your envelope

Understanding what material has been used to make your envelope is essential. Envelopes can be made with an array of materials depending on your budget and preference. You can opt for
heavy or light material depending on what you will use the envelope for.

For instance, if you are planning on using your envelopes for shipping goods, then they should be heavy duty and sturdy. You should also select an envelope material that will not smudge and one that will hold up well in the mail, especially if you are sending it out to far distances.

Pick the right size

The size that you pick will affect the overall process of printing them as well as their mailability.
Try and ensure that whichever envelope that you select will match your needs and will
accommodate and fit everything that you want to send. You must also make certain that it is a
regulation size envelope for the postal service. Otherwise, you might be charged extra to mail it.

Consider branding it

Branding an envelope is a fantastic way to grab the attention of your recipients or your
customers. You can try to add some special effects to the surface of your envelopes by including graphics or your address and brand colors. If you do not have to deal with a high volume, you can customize each of your envelopes to the recipient using your word processing program.

Use company colors

If you opt to use specialty labels for printing envelopes, try and make sure that the design on the envelope is simple to make certain that your envelope does not appear overcrowded. If you are addressing it by hand, you can opt for lighter colors for your labels which will guarantee that
your labels and envelopes are clear and legible.

Try out a few samples first

Please note that not all envelopes are made equal. Therefore, it is critical that you pick a design
that will leave a lasting impression. Get a sample of every envelope before settling on its final
design or material. This will help you get a sense of its weight, as well as its thickness.

For your needs in printing envelopes check out our website.

Why You Need To Upgrade Your Printer Software

Printer software typically comes with your printer. The software is typically made up of a printer
driver, as well as printer utilities. The printer utilities are responsible for keeping your printer in
top condition while the driver allows you to select an array of settings so that you can get optimal results from your printer.
If you print on a regular basis or run a print shop business, it is important to ensure that your
printer software is updated at all times. Printer software allows your printer to function as
intended. Therefore, if your printer is operating on old software, an upgrade that is intended for
your computer’s Operating System and printer model may be necessary. Here is why you should upgrade your printer software:

To reduce your costs

A printer that has the latest printer software is bound to function more effectively than a printer
that is running on old software. When you upgrade your printer software, it could translate into
lower costs for each page that you print. Once your printer is functioning more effectively, it also means that you will be able to handle more high-quality printing jobs in less time.

To ensure the best quality

Advanced and upgraded printer software from reputable brands such as Canon and Epson
typically come with the newest features that are designed to heighten and improve your output
quality. Upgraded printer software can lead to significant improvements relating to major issues such as color density. Printers that have new software can simplify the printing process and bring an end to problems that lead to paper waste, which can affect your profit margins.

If you are looking to handle more work

If you run a printing business, your profitability and success will be determined by how fast you
can print. Old software can only limit the work that you can handle particularly when the job is
complicated. If you run heavy stock and want to improve your productivity, upgrading your
printer software can be your best bet if you want increased volumes or if you struggle with
meeting tight client deadlines.

It is inexpensive

Technology has come far which is reason enough to upgrade your printer software. Because of
the latest advancements, previously high-end printing features that were reserved for more
expensive models are now available on entry-level printers. So if you are worried about the price of upgrading your software or printer model, you need not be because there is a wide array of options that you can enjoy out there.

5 Picture Perfect Photo Filter Apps That You Should Try

Photo filter apps are a must-have for anyone that uses their phone or tablet to capture pictures.
Although the quality of cameras has improved in recent years, photo editing and filter apps can
elevate one’s photography to make it appear more professional. Photo filter apps can perform an array of tasks including transforming otherwise dull or lifeless photos into amazing works of art.
Because there are so many apps out there promising to give the best results, the process of
picking a photo filter app can be daunting and overwhelming especially when you do not know
where to start. Whether you need to edit your pictures to share on social media or are looking to upload them on your business website, here are 5 picture perfect photo filter apps that you should try out:

Snapseed

Snapseed is an incredibly easy app to use thanks to its flawless design. It allows individuals to
change photo details such as shapes, lighting, and hues on a particular image or just part of it.
For those that have never used the app before, there are also helpful tutorials and tips that can
assist with navigation through the app. Snapseed is perfect if you own an iPhone or Android
device and have never used a photo editing app before.

TouchRetouch

TouchRetouch is great if you want to rectify a blemish or glare or if you simply want to get rid of
an unwanted object in the picture. It can allow you to eliminate people, buildings, unwanted
backgrounds and spots in the sky, shadows, and so much more. To use it, you simply have to
highlight the parts that need retouching and the app will handle everything else for you.

AirBrush

Airbrush is perfect for people that take a lot of selfies. It can edit blemishes on the face and skin, as well as whiten the teeth and make your eyes appear brighter or bigger. It is also incredibly easy to use as most of the tools included are one-click. The professional version is also relatively more inexpensive compared to other premium versions.

Vsco

Vsco is popular among iPhone users owing to its wide array of filters. In addition to the filters,
users can also edit their pictures by fine-tuning the highlights, saturation, sharpness and soon. It also comes with an impressive Sync and Edit feature that enables you to sync your pictures
across a variety of devices.

Adobe Photoshop Express

The Adobe Photoshop Express app has included all the wonderful features that you would
typically find in Adobe Photoshop. Therefore, if you need to edit your pictures on the go, you
can use the Express version for quick fixes and automatic edits.

DIY Printable Photo Frame Tips

Making your own DIY printable photo frames can not only be a fun DIY project but it can also
be a rewarding one considering that photo frames can be quite expensive. A well made DIY
photo frame can improve the appearance of your photos and artwork, and it can also save you
money in the end.

Most frames available for purchase come in standard sizes, so if you have something to frame
that does not fit into a standard frame, a DIY printable photo frame can also be a good option for you. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to possess arcane DIY skills to make a perfect photo frame. Here are some DIY printable photo frame tips that can help:

Ensure your measurements as accurate as possible

The first task you will have to deal with is to generate the measurements for your frame. When
taking your measurements initially, it is essential to make sure that they are as accurate as
possible. The key to ensuring that your new frame is cut correctly is to get the mitered corner
measured and cut correctly. Each of the opposite sides of the frames from top to bottom and side to side should have the exact same length all through. If the lengths are unequal, you will more than likely have a gap in the corner of your new frame that could ruin its appearance.

Getting the right angle

To get the right angle for your DIY frame, you can make use of a miter gauge, as well as a
backing board that will guarantee that you get the angle that you need. A builder’s square can
also, be used to arrange all your final pieces as it will notify you if the measurements are aligned and correct before any permanent nailing or gluing can be done.

Pick the right artwork or photos

When picking your photographs or artwork, pick colors in the pictures that will match your style
or décor. Look for images that contain complimentary tones or alter them using accessible
software such as Lightroom and Photoshop to make them fit your theme. If you plan on using a
collection of different colored and textured printable photo frames, use black and white images
to keep your collection from appearing chaotic or cluttered.

Try thrift stores

If you do not have any interesting artwork or photographs to frame, consider giving thrift stores
in your area a try. They usually have a section with plenty of pictures and artwork to choose
from, as well as a range of vintage designs that you can emulate if you need a little inspiration.

Notable Difference Between Ink Tanks And Ink Cartridges

Thanks to technology, customers now have a wider variety of printing options to choose from
when looking for a printer of their choice. When buying inkjet printers, in particular, one has to
decide whether they would prefer an inkjet printer that uses an ink tank versus one that uses ink cartridges.

Until very recently, manufacturers sold home printers at a relatively low price because they
would rely on branded ink cartridges that were expensive to make profits. However, nowadays,
brands such as Epson manufacture printers that have refillable ink tanks instead. According to
tech experts, printers with refillable ink tanks can last for nearly two years in a typical household.

So what are the notable differences between ink tanks and ink cartridges?

Ink cartridges

Ink cartridges refer to ink containers that have an inbuilt print head. These small boxes of ink
(cartridges) are filled with liquid ink, which is then used by the printer to print out your
documents or the images that you need from your device. Most printers that can print color come with one black cartridge and a color cartridge that combines 3 primary colors to come up with a variety of color combinations. Whenever a cartridge runs out, it can either be replaced or refilled; it is typically significantly cheaper to refill a cartridge rather than purchase an entirely new one.

Ink tanks

Unlike cartridges, ink tanks do not contain an inbuilt print head. Ink tanks have individual color
tanks made up of cyan, yellow and magenta, as well as a black tank that can easily be refilled
with ink bottles. Compared to inkjet printers that use cartridges, refillable ink tank models tend
to be more expensive initially. However, you end up saving money in the long run as a result of
low print costs and the availability of inexpensive refill bottles.

Which is better? Ink tank vs. ink cartridge

In terms of performance, there are no known attributable differences in print quality between
print cartridges and ink tanks. Nonetheless, without a doubt, the print costs that you typically
experience with regular printers that use cartridges are significantly higher compared to ink tank printers.
However, as a printer that has a refillable ink tank typically costs more than twice the price of an
average inkjet model (which uses cartridges), it may take some time before the customer actually starts to make savings. Replacing cartridges can also be an expensive affair because print heads must be replaced every time the ink in a cartridge runs out.

The bottom line

Consequently, household or businesses that are relatively heavy users of cartridges can make
considerable savings in the end by switching their printer for one with a tank.

10 Printable Photo Collage Ideas

Have you come across some old pictures and are thinking, “Where have they been all along?”

Making a photo collage is one way to put all your favorite old photos together for easier viewing. It is also a way to tell a great story. You have been on a superb to Fiji and want to
claim your bragging rights? Showcase all those beach shots in one group and post on them on your Instagram for your 15 minutes of fame.

Making photo collages with smartphone and desktop apps is even easier and more fun. You can apply filters, text overlays and much more. Post them on social media or better yet print them and hang them on the wall for your guests to admire.

Here are some printable photo collage ideas to try out:

Your life events

Tell a visual story with all your favorite photos at different important dates in your life; your first day as a gap-toothed little kid in elementary school, your high school graduation, first day in college, your first couple photo, and any other important dates.

The Family Collage

Who can make your days brighter better than family? Go through your family photos and pick the best. They could be photos of the family as a group or solo pics. Life event photos make for great memories; your little brother graduating from high school, your sister’s wedding, your parents’ 25th anniversary.

You and friends collage

Make this photo collage and you will be pleasantly surprised at the fond memories it can trigger. You will always smile when you see the different people who have come in and gone out of your life at different times.

Travel photo collage

A travel collage can be made with photos from one destination like a getaway to Hawaii, or they can be made from photos in your life’s travels.

Favorite personal items collage

What are your favorite everyday items? Got a beautiful watch, or backpack? Take photos with your smartphone and apply color filters to make them look different. A sepia filter would make curious photos.

Favorite spots collage

What are your favorite places where you live? Take photos of places you frequent every day like the coffee house, library, workplace and your favorite club.

Food Collage

Make a tasty collage with photos of your favorite dishes and drinks.

Hobby collage

Do you like collecting stamps? What better way to celebrate the objects of your desire than great photos of your collection?

Random events collage

What unexpected places and events have you been to? Maybe there was that wedding you attended where you did not even know the wedding couple. Show your spontaneous side.

Fashion collage

Which memorable days were you in killer outfits? Show off your great sense of fashion. Do you have favorite photos that you would like to show off?

What You Need To Know About Digital Printing

Personal computers in small offices and homes necessitated a printing method that could be done directly from these devices. Digital printing has become the preferred (perhaps the only
remaining) method for printing office documents for different purposes. Unlike other printing
techniques that require preparing plates, screens and other aids, digital printing allows quick
editing and printing of what is on an electronic device. Modern printers can even print
directly from USB flash sticks without a PC.

What is digital printing?

Simply put, digital printing is where the image is transferred directly to the printing surface.
This can be paper, plastic, fabric, glass and even ceramic. This is unlike traditional printing
which required preparing a plate or stencil.
Digital printing is usually preferred for paper sizes up to A3. This is because, in large sizes, it
becomes fairly expensive eroding the gains of the faster printing times.
There are two main types of digital printing
• Inkjet printing – A nozzle sprays ink onto the printing surface
• Laser printing – A laser negatively charges a drum which then attracts toner on the
charged parts

Digital printing has some defining characteristics:

• Sheet size – Most digital presses will be able to print up to A3. The Xerox Igen is one of
the few printers that can take larger sizes than this, at 660 x 430 mm sizes.
• Paper – Different paper brings out print differently because of the different water content
and surface texture. The paper that brings out photos well, works out differently for text.
• Printing quality – Digital printing works best for grayscale, black and white text and
graphics. Large images in solid color do not come out very well in digital printing especially
when done on plain paper as they come out over-saturated.
• Finishing – Some types of finishing are tricky to do in digital printing. Laminates and
foils, for example, do not adhere very well to the toner.

What are the advantages of digital printing?

• Fast – Print-on- demand jobs are fast to do. Small runs are easy to prepare and economical.
• Cheaper – Digital printing is cheaper for home and offices printing as there are no plates
or stencils to prepare.
• Easy to operate – Digital printing is easy to set up as many digital printers are plug-n- play.
WYSIWYG editing also makes it easy to make changes to printing jobs quickly, or have
different variations in a short time.

There is no file preparation as printing can be done from different graphics design, word
processing, and document viewing programs.

What type of printing do you do, and what printer kind of do you own?