Common Printing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Whether you’re ordering business cards, brochures, forms, or promotional materials, professional printing is an investment in your business image. But even small mistakes can lead to wasted materials, missed deadlines, and higher costs. At Alpha Business Forms, we help businesses throughout Western Pennsylvania avoid common pitfalls and ensure every print job comes out looking polished and professional.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common printing mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Low-Resolution Images

The problem: Images pulled from websites or cell phones often have a resolution of 72 DPI (dots per inch). While that’s fine for screens, print materials require at least 300 DPI for crisp, clear results. Low-res images can look pixelated or blurry when printed.

How to avoid it: Always use high-resolution images or vector files. If you’re not sure whether your file meets print standards, Alpha’s team can check it for you before going to print.

2. Ignoring Bleed and Margin Guidelines

The problem: If your design goes all the way to the edge of the page, it needs bleed space—typically 1/8" (0.125") extra around each edge. Otherwise, you risk white borders or uneven cuts. Similarly, important text too close to the edge may get trimmed off.

How to avoid it: Include proper bleed in your design file and keep critical text and logos at least 1/4" inside the trim line. If you're unsure, Alpha Business Forms can provide print-ready templates for your project.

3. Wrong Color Format (RGB vs. CMYK)

The problem: Designs created in RGB color mode (used for digital screens) can shift in color when converted to CMYK (used for printing). This can lead to colors that appear duller or different in print than on screen.

How to avoid it: Design your print materials in CMYK color mode from the start. If you’re converting from RGB, always preview your file in CMYK to check for shifts in color.

4. Overlooking Proofing

The problem: Typos, alignment issues, and layout errors can slip through if you don’t proof your files carefully—and once it's printed, it's too late.

How to avoid it: Always proof your work before submitting it for print. Read everything out loud, check spacing and layout, and ask a second person to review it. At Alpha Business Forms, we also offer professional pre-press proofing to help catch errors before they hit the press.

5. Using the Wrong File Format

The problem: Submitting files in the wrong format can cause delays or unexpected changes during printing. For example, Microsoft Word documents can reformat depending on the system, and images may not embed correctly.

How to avoid it: Submit PDFs with embedded fonts and images for the most reliable results. For logos and vector graphics, formats like .AI, .EPS, or .SVG are best.

6. Choosing Inappropriate Materials or Finishes

The problem: A flimsy brochure, overly glossy business card, or hard-to-read font can hurt your credibility. Choosing the wrong stock or finish can negatively impact your design’s effectiveness.

How to avoid it: Work with a local print expert like Alpha Business Forms. We’ll help you select materials and finishes that align with your brand and purpose—whether you're aiming for elegance, durability, or eco-friendliness.

7. Missing Deadlines

The problem: Last-minute orders often lead to rushed jobs, errors, and higher costs. Custom print jobs require production time—especially if they involve unique materials or specialty finishes.

How to avoid it: Plan ahead and communicate your deadlines clearly. Alpha Business Forms works with your schedule to ensure timely delivery without compromising quality.

Print With Confidence

Avoiding these common mistakes means saving time, money, and stress on every project. At Alpha Business Forms, we combine decades of experience with top-tier printing equipment to help your business make the right impression—every time.

Need help with a custom printing project? Contact us today to get started, or stop by our location to speak with a printing expert.