Avoid These 6 Mistakes When Using Printing Services

You've got a deadline, a design in mind, and high hopes—but small mistakes with your printed materials can become big headaches if you're not careful. Whether you're printing business cards, brochures, or banners, working with printing services in La Grange can be a game-changer—if you avoid a few common missteps that derail many local campaigns.

From unclear files to last-minute rush jobs, these are the most common mistakes businesses make and how to sidestep them for polished, professional results every time.

1. Ignoring File Setup Guidelines

You may love your design, but if it's not formatted correctly for print, it could become blurry, cut off, or worse—completely unusable. A common error is submitting low-resolution files or forgetting bleed and margin guidelines.

Before sending anything to printing services, check the following:

• DPI 

• CMYK color mode (not RGB)

• Bleed margins (usually 0.125” beyond the trim)

• Embedded fonts or outlined text

Even minor oversights in the setup can cost extra time and money or force you to start from scratch.

2. Choosing Quantity Over Quality

Bulk ordering might sound smart financially, but it's risky if you're unsure about your design or content. Many businesses print thousands of flyers, only to realize later that they included outdated information or used an off-brand color scheme.

Start small. Ask your printing services for a proof or sample run before committing to a full print job. This will give you the chance to make final tweaks and avoid waste.

3. Rushing Without a Plan

Printing is often treated as an afterthought—something businesses scramble to do right before a launch or event. But rushed printing usually means overlooked typos, missed branding opportunities, and inconsistent messaging.

If you’re planning a seasonal campaign, tech show display, or new product release, include your printer early in the planning process. A seasoned printing services provider can help with sizing, material suggestions, mailing options, and even cross-promotional ideas.

4. Skipping Brand Consistency

Your printed materials should be instantly recognizable as part of your brand. Mismatched colors, off-style fonts, or inconsistent messaging can confuse your audience and damage your identity.

Ask yourself:

• Do these prints reflect our tone and mission?

• Are the colors and logos consistent with our digital presence?

• Will customers recognize this as part of our brand?

The best printing services will help you develop or maintain a brand style guide so every piece—a flyer, menu, or thank-you card—looks intentional and unified.

5. Not Thinking About the End User

You might be proud of your latest postcard or banner design—but is it applicable to the recipient? A gorgeous brochure that doesn't answer key questions or include a clear CTA won't generate the results you want.

Make sure your materials serve your audience. Whether you want to drive sales, build awareness, or generate leads, your printed content should deliver clarity, value, and direction.

6. Underestimating the Power of Local Expertise

Big-box online printers may offer fast turnaround and flashy pricing, but they lack something crucial: local knowledge and one-on-one service. Local printers offer more than production—they bring strategic insight, creative guidance, and personal attention.

They understand the local market, seasonal trends, and what signage or flyers are likely to work in your neighborhood and events.

Don’t Forget Your Visual Environment: Work with an Expert Sign Company in La Grange

Excellent printed materials are only part of the equation. If your storefront, lobby, or booth lacks visual impact, your message may not reach the intended audience. That's where a sign company in La Grange comes in.

From window graphics to tech show displays, a local sign company can make sure your signage works hand-in-hand with your printed materials. Think coordinated branding across:

• Wall graphics

• Indoor/outdoor signage

• Vehicle wraps

Printed materials and signage create a 360-degree brand experience that your audience won’t forget. Working with a unified provider ensures everything—from paper stock to sign substrate—matches your quality standards and visual identity.

Ready for Your Next Print Job?

Working with printing services in La Grange should simplify your process—not add stress. By avoiding common pitfalls like poor file setup, rushed timelines, or mismatched branding, you’re setting yourself up for cleaner, more effective results.

AlphaGraphics La Grange combines expert design support, high-quality printing, and a deep understanding of local business needs. Whether you need fresh business cards, custom brochures, or large-scale signage, we’re here to help your brand look its best—every time. Contact us today.