Print Lingo De-coded: Bleed, GSM, CMYK & Other Acronyms That Sound Like Dog Commands
Ever felt like the world of printing is speaking a different language? With terms like bleed, GSM, and CMYK flying around, it can feel like deciphering a secret code. But fear not, dear reader! This blog post is here to decode the print lingo and make you a printing pro in no time.
What on Earth is Bleed?
No, we're not talking about a paper cut here. Bleed is actually a printing term that refers to the area of a design that extends beyond the edge of the final print size. It ensures that when the paper is trimmed, there are no white borders. Think of it as the design going all the way to the edge of the paper, living life on the edge, if you will.
GSM: More Than Just a Unit of Weight
When you see GSM on a paper specification, it's not talking about a fancy new workout routine. GSM stands for grams per square meter and refers to the weight of the paper. The higher the GSM, the thicker and heavier the paper. So next time you see 300 GSM on a paper sample, you'll know it's a heavyweight champion.
CMYK: Not Just a Random String of Letters
CMYK may sound like a secret code, but it's actually the colour model used in printing. It stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (black). These are the four colours used in printing to create a full spectrum of colours. So, when your printer asks for a file in CMYK, they're not asking you to solve a riddle, just to provide the right colour format.
RGB: The Color of the Digital World
On the flip side, RGB stands for Red, Green, Blue and is the colour model used for digital screens. So, when you're designing for the web, RGB is your go-to. Just remember, what looks good on screen might not always translate well to print (trust us, it's a lesson learned the hard way).
What's DPI and Why Does it Matter?
DPI, or dots per inch, is a measure of printing resolution. The higher the DPI, the more detailed and crisp the print will be. So, when your designer asks for high-resolution images, they're not just being picky, they're ensuring your prints look top-notch.
So there you have it, a crash course in print lingo that will have you speaking the language of the printing pros in no time. Remember, when in doubt, just smile and nod like you know exactly what bleed, GSM, CMYK, and all the other acronyms mean. Fake it 'til you make it, right?
