Selecting a Print Company

As discussed with Amber in my first practical crit as I wanted to create a professional looking magazine that would infit with the fashion publication market I would need to get the document printed and bound elsewhere, in order for it to be successful. I know from experience over the last two years that perfect bound professional books are not my strongest points and therefore do not want my production methods to affect the impression of the design on the target audience.

Through recommendations of asking tutors (Dom) and also peers in the group who have printed externally before, recommended was:

• Printed.com
• Blurb
• Mixam Print

Upon researching these different brands I made the decision to go with Printed.com, many factors were taken into consideration with this decision. Mainly pricing and production time, enabling me to get more than one copy printed and to a standard the would be expected to be picked up on the shelf. I also want to produce more than one in case any of the bindings went wrong in one of the copies as I selected for the magazine to be perfect bound. I also wanted to ensure that I had the most time as possible to gather content design the magazine itself, as well as print out trials beforehand and be able to go through the design with a fine tooth comb. It also maximises the amount of time that I have to be able to gain feedback from both peers and tutors. 

On the online quote printed.com shows as more expensive although I was sent a code for 20% off from them which therefore makes it cheaper, their standard turn around time is also 4 days from print to delivery as standard, whereas maxim asks for additional payment for this service. 

Maxim Prints

Printed.com