(and How to Avoid Them)
Printing is one of the most effective ways to showcase your brand, whether it’s through business cards, brochures, flyers, or presentation folders. But too often, businesses run into frustrating (and expensive) Common Printing Mistakes that can hurt the final product. The good news? With the right planning, and Gully Print by your side you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure your print materials look polished and professional.
Below are some of the most common printing mistakes — and how to sidestep them.
1. Using Low-Resolution Images
The mistake: Uploading images pulled from the web or saving files at a small size often results in blurry, pixelated prints.
How to avoid it: Always use high-resolution images (at least 300 dpi). If you’re unsure about your image quality, ask your printer to check before production.
2. Forgetting About Bleed & Safe Zones
The mistake: Designs printed right to the edge without bleed often end up with white borders or cut-off text.
How to avoid it: Include at least 3mm of bleed and keep all important text/logos within the safe zone. Your designer or printer can guide you through the setup.
3. Choosing the Wrong Paper Stock
The mistake: A thin, flimsy stock for a premium brochure, or a glossy finish where a matte look would suit better, can cheapen your brand.
How to avoid it: Talk with your printer about the feel you want your customers to have. Paper weight, texture, and finish all matter more than you think.
4. Poor Colour Management
The mistake: Colours looking completely different on paper than on screen.
How to avoid it: Always design in CMYK (not RGB) and request a proof before final production. Consistent brand colours are key to a professional look.
5. Overcrowded Designs
The mistake: Trying to fit in too much text or too many images makes print materials cluttered and hard to read.
How to avoid it: Keep your design clean and focused. Use whitespace strategically and prioritise the most important message.
6. Ordering Too Few Prints
The mistake: Printing the bare minimum to save money, only to run out right before an event or campaign.
How to avoid it: Print a little extra — it often costs only slightly more per unit to increase your print run.
7. Not Proofreading Carefully
The mistake: Typos, wrong contact details, or outdated information can make a great design useless.
How to avoid it: Triple-check every detail, and ideally, have someone outside your team proof it before sending to print.
Final Thoughts
Professional printing is an investment in your business image. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you time, money, and headaches — while ensuring your materials make the best possible impression.
At Gully Print, we work with businesses every step of the way, from file setup to finished product, so you can feel confident in every order.
👉 Need help with your next project? Get a Quote Today or talk to our team about the best options for your business.