Printing a magazine is one thing, but printing a quality magazine is quite another, wouldn’t you agree? With sharp and clever advice, readers won’t be able to put it down! And one thing’s for certain: your publication won’t go unnoticed on the newsstands either! With our 5 key tips, print smartly. Message received loud and clear!
Tip No. 1: Choose the right format for printing your magazine.
Let’s not beat around the bush. The most standard format is A4. But be warned, standard does not mean mundane. This is the most suitable dimension for such a brochure. Hence, we recommend sticking to the A4 portrait format, even if you decide to slightly adjust the dimensions of your magazine. zine printing
Are you wondering why this format is so significant? Well, you’re right to, and here are the reasons:
- For ease of sales: If your magazine is to be distributed at newsstands, it first needs the retailer’s approval. If it’s too large, occupies too much space, or isn’t suited for shelf display, the retailer might very well decline.
- To be noticed: “Hello, I’m here! Yes, right down here! Behind ‘Closer’.” That’s what your magazine might say if it were too small, lost in the pile of periodicals on sale at the newsstand (and if it could, of course, speak). Stand out at best, exist at the least: that’s the primary requirement for any magazine.
- To play it safe: Rest assured, you can’t go wrong choosing this format. It’s a tried-and-true classic. If you’re still on the fence, just go for it!
Tip No. 2: Opt for the perfect paper for the interior pages.
If there are two types of paper to consider, it’s these:
- Offset paper: This paper has undergone no treatments and has a slightly rough, almost “organic” feel, but with a trendy and quality finish. It absorbs more ink, making colours a tad less vibrant and details less striking. Yet, its retro appeal is a serious advantage, especially for lifestyle magazines with muted colours.
- Coated paper: Unlike offset, this has been treated to be smoother and whiter. It comes in two types:
- Matte coated paper (90 to 150 g/m²): Perfect for text. It doesn’t reflect much light, ensuring comfortable reading. It’s the go-to choice.
- Gloss coated paper (90 to 150 g/m²): With its glossy finish, it enhances photos, colour intensity, and sharpness of visuals. Ideal for product or lifestyle magazines. Note that at equal weight, it’s still thinner than matte.
In general, remember it’s not best suited for extensive text, as light reflections can hinder readability. Writing on it can be tricky, as ink tends to smudge.
Tip No. 3: Prioritise the ideal paper for the cover.
- Magazines without distinct covers: Here, the cover is the same weight as the inside. Common for advertising magazines, but not for standard magazines, which might lack sturdiness.
- Coated paper cover: As mentioned, it’s the standard! Suited for monthly magazines requiring some robustness. It also supports lamination and is available in weights ranging from 250 to 350 g/m².
- Textured paper cover (300 to 320 g/m²): This refers to specialty papers like laid or kraft. Mainly used for fashion or luxury catalogues, and not suitable for magazines, especially if covers have photos.
- Offset paper cover (300 g/m²): The offset paper has a crafty, raw, yet elegant appearance. Perfect for monthly or quarterly lifestyle, nature, or travel magazines.
Tip No. 4: Select the appropriate binding.
- Perfect binding: This method uses resin glue to bind sections. For monthly issues, this type of binding is a classic. Consider our upscale magazines like Caviar or Surf Session.
- Stapled binding: The sheets are simply stapled along the spine. However, it’s suitable for up to only 80 pages. More suitable for weekly magazines with a shorter lifespan.
Tip No. 5: Apply finishes to the cover.
Why consider finishes for my magazine?
Once a finish is applied, the magazine becomes premium. Often seen in monthly or quarterly magazines. Benefits include:
- Catching the eye on the newsstand.
- Potentially higher sales price.
- Protecting the paper and extending the magazine’s lifespan.
What finishes are available for my magazine?
- Lamination: On matte or gloss coated paper, it strengthens the paper. There’s matte lamination that softens colours and gives the paper a smooth, soft feel. Gloss lamination adds depth with light reflections. Lastly, Soft Touch offers a high-end feel with a “peach skin” effect.
- 3D Spot UV and foiling: These subtly highlight specific areas of the cover.
