Printing terms can be confusing to the layman. Below is a few terms used in the trade and explanations to help you understand the process you are involved in.

 

CMYK - The colours used in 4 colour process (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow & Black)

 

300dpi - 300 Dots Per Inch, the best setting for high quality printing, both in offset and digital

 

Trim Size - The finished size of the print product

 

Finishing - All processes that follow the sheets being printed (include lamination, binding and drilling)

 

RGB - Colours shown on most computers and TV's not suited to the printing process (See CMYK)

 

GSM - Grams per Square Meter (Measure of the Weight of Paper or Cardstock)

 

Bond - Paper of around 80 - 100gsm mainly used in inkjet and laser printers

 

Uncoated Paper - No coating, similar to laser stock, absorbs more ink

 

Coated Paper - Surface coated for a smoother finish, can be gloss or matte

 

Gloss - Shiny looking stock (paper)

 

Matte - Flat looking stock (paper)

 

Satin - Neutral looking stock (paper)

 

Aqueous - A water based coating applied during the printing process to assist with drying and minimise scuffing

 

Laminate - Plastic coating bonded to the printed stock (also called celloglaze)

 

Varnish - Ink or liquid based coating added to stock during