Flexible FormatsBuild common or custom small-format pieces using a broad range of flat and folded sizes.
Finishing Built InAdd folds, lamination, foil, contour cutting, hole drilling, perforation, numbering and more.
Production ChoicesCompare standard and rush turnaround options when the selected configuration qualifies.
HorizontalWidth is greater than heightLandscape layouts are common for banners, storefront graphics, wall signage, fence graphics and wide display panels.
VerticalHeight is greater than widthPortrait layouts suit standing signs, window graphics, narrow wall graphics, directional panels and other tall displays.
Full ColorFull-color printing on one visible side or outside surface.Highlights: Bright color; photos; logos; illustrationsBest for: Flyers; posters; signs; covers; one-sided piecesConsider: Reverse or inside remains unprinted
GrayscaleBlack-and-gray printing on one visible side or outside surface.Highlights: Economical; clean; high-contrast reproductionBest for: Forms; handouts; manuals; text-heavy piecesConsider: Reverse or inside remains unprinted
Full Color Both SidesFull-color printing on both sides for pieces viewed from the front and back.Highlights: Color throughout; consistent brandingBest for: Postcards; cards; two-sided flyers; display piecesConsider: Artwork is required for both sides
Grayscale Both SidesGrayscale printing on both sides for text, forms and economical two-sided projects.Highlights: Economical two-sided printing; strong readabilityBest for: Manuals; forms; instructional pieces; handoutsConsider: Both sides print in grayscale
Full Color Front & Grayscale BackFull color on the front with grayscale on the reverse for a balanced presentation and cost.Highlights: Color impact on front; economical information on backBest for: Cards; handouts; inserts; informational piecesConsider: Back prints in grayscale
No PrintChoose this when the project needs finishing, cutting or supplied material handling without printed ink or toner.Highlights: Finishing-only workflow; supplied graphics or blank materialBest for: Cutting; finishing; blank stock preparationConsider: No printing is applied
Gloss70–100 lb Text · 80–130 lb CoverSmooth coated surface that makes photos, saturated colors and high-contrast graphics look brighter and more energetic.Highlights:Bright color; smooth coated surface; strong photo reproductionBest for:Brochures; flyers; postcards; promotional piecesConsider:Harder to write on than uncoated stocks
Matte70–100 lb Text · 80–130 lb CoverLow-glare coated finish with a refined professional look and softer visual response than gloss.Highlights:Low-glare coated finish; refined appearanceBest for:Business collateral; brochures; premium handoutsConsider:Less reflective than gloss; still less writable than uncoated
Uncoated60–100 lb Text · 65–130 lb CoverWritable, low-sheen paper with a natural tactile feel; useful for stationery, forms, appointment cards and note-friendly pieces.Highlights:Writable; natural feel; low sheenBest for:Forms; stationery; note cards; appointment cardsConsider:Colors can appear softer than on coated paper
C1S10 · 12 · 14 · 16 · 18 ptCoated on one side and uncoated on the reverse, making it especially useful for appointment, loyalty, reminder and write-on-back cards.Highlights:Coated front; uncoated reverseBest for:Appointment cards; loyalty cards; write-on-back piecesConsider:Front and reverse intentionally have different surfaces
C2S10 · 12 · 14 · 16 · 18 ptCoated on both sides for consistent color, smooth handling and a finished appearance on both the front and reverse.Highlights:Coated both sides; consistent smooth finishBest for:Business cards; postcards; rack cardsConsider:Less suitable when customers need to write on the piece
Linen, Laid & StrathmoreText and cover weights vary by finishStructured surface patterns give stationery, certificates, invitations and premium communication pieces a traditional upscale character.Highlights:Visible texture; premium feelBest for:Invitations; certificates; stationeryConsider:Texture can affect very fine screens or small details
Cotton, Felt & FiberText and cover options varySoft or tactile specialty surfaces add noticeable paper character when the material itself should contribute to the design.Highlights:Soft tactile feel; distinctive surfaceBest for:Invitations; premium cards; specialty brandingConsider:Texture can change how very fine artwork reproduces
Natural, Astroparche & ColorNatural and specialty color stocksWarm, earthy or colored papers work well for understated branding, organic themes and designs that benefit from visible paper tone.Highlights:Visible paper tone; distinctive colorBest for:Invitations; specialty branding; themed piecesConsider:Paper color influences printed color appearance
Pearlized105 lb CoverA subtle reflective shimmer gives luxury, beauty, wedding and premium designs a more decorative surface without full metallic foil.Highlights:Subtle shimmer; premium appearanceBest for:Invitations; beauty; wedding; luxury piecesConsider:Appearance shifts under different lighting
Labels & Weather-Resistant MediaGloss · Matte · Uncoated · Clear · Matte VinylAdhesive materials cover packaging, identification and promotional uses; matte vinyl adds weather resistance for more demanding applications.Highlights:Adhesive options; specialty surfaces; durable choicesBest for:Product labels; packaging; identificationConsider:Surface compatibility and exposure conditions matter
Synthetic6 mil · 8 mil · 11 milDurable non-paper media is useful when the piece needs better resistance to moisture, repeated handling or wear.Highlights:Water-resistant; tear-resistant; durableBest for:Menus; instruction cards; high-use piecesConsider:Feels different from paper and may require compatible finishing
Clear VinylTransparent adhesive vinyl that lets the surface or window remain visible around printed areas.Highlights:Transparent background; adhesive application; clean window presentationBest for:Labels; decals; window graphics; transparent applicationsConsider:Light colors may need white support depending on the design and surface
Black VinylSolid black adhesive vinyl for bold labels, silhouettes, lettering and high-contrast graphic applications.Highlights:Deep black surface; durable adhesive; strong contrastBest for:Labels; decals; lettering; dark graphic elementsConsider:Use artwork and print choices appropriate for a black base material
Customer-Supplied StockText/Bond or Cover/IndexUse a compatible customer-provided paper when the project requires a stock outside the estimator list; suitability remains subject to production review.Highlights:Use an approved customer-provided paper or cardstockBest for:Specialty stocks already on hand; brand-specific materialsConsider:Stock must be reviewed for press compatibility before production
Static ArtworkNo Variable Data · No Sequential NumberingEvery piece prints the same content, making this the standard choice when no personalization or sequence is required.Highlights:Every printed piece uses the same artworkBest for:Standard flyers; cards; brochures; general print runsConsider:Choose variable data when text or graphics need to change by piece
Variable DataNames · Codes · Other changing fieldsMerge organized data into designated artwork fields so individual pieces can carry different names, numbers or other text.Highlights:Personalized text or graphics; every piece can varyBest for:Direct mail; personalized cards; targeted campaignsConsider:Requires clean structured data and careful proofing
Sequential Numbering000001 · 000101 · 001001 · 010001 · 100001 · OtherAdds a unique increasing number to tickets, forms, certificates or controlled pieces; another starting number can be specified in the instructions.Highlights:Unique consecutive numbers; easy trackingBest for:Tickets; forms; certificates; vouchersConsider:Starting number and sequence must be confirmed
Gloss LaminationHigh-sheen protective filmAdds visible shine, richer color contrast and added surface protection for pieces that benefit from a polished finish.Highlights:Gloss protection; richer appearanceBest for:Menus; cards; covers; high-touch piecesConsider:Adds sheen and reduces writability
Soft Touch LaminationVelvety low-sheen filmCreates a smooth premium hand feel with reduced glare, making the finished piece feel softer and more substantial.Highlights:Velvety tactile finish; premium feelBest for:Business cards; invitations; premium marketingConsider:Finger oils can show more on dark solid areas
Soft Touch + Foil?Artwork setupArtwork Setup for FoilFoil requires a normal CMYK print file plus a separate black-and-white mask file showing exactly where foil will be applied.Mask file: Use solid black for areas that receive foil and white for areas with no foil.File setup: Keep the foil mask aligned exactly with the CMYK print artwork.Details: Avoid extremely fine lines, tiny type and very small isolated elements.Foil color: Gold and silver use the same artwork setup; choose the foil color as the finishing option.Gold or silver · front only or both sidesCombines soft-touch lamination with metallic foil accents for logos, names, borders and other premium design details.Highlights:Soft-touch feel plus metallic accentBest for:Luxury cards; invitations; premium brandingConsider:Foil artwork requires a separate mask file
Standard Straight CutNo contour cutKeeps the finished piece in the standard rectangular, square or configured straight-cut shape.Highlights:Standard rectangular or square trimBest for:Most cards; flyers; inserts; conventional print piecesConsider:Choose custom cut when the finished outline should follow a shape
Custom Cut to Shape?Artwork setupArtwork Setup for Cut to Shape (Contour Cut)Create a closed vector path that follows the exact finished shape of the printed piece.Cut path: Place the contour path on a separate layer and keep it as vector artwork.Safety: Keep important text, logos and critical design elements safely inside the cut line.Shape: Avoid extremely small details, sharp inside corners and narrow projections.Bleed: Extend backgrounds past the cut line when printing reaches the finished edge.Closed vector cut path requiredCreates a custom silhouette around a logo, product, star, pet outline or other shape; keep critical content safely inside the cut path.Highlights:Custom outline; distinctive shapeBest for:Tags; specialty cards; promotional shapesConsider:Requires a clean vector contour path and safe margin
Half Fold / Bi-Fold2 panelsA simple fold for greeting cards, menus, programs, handouts and compact informational pieces.Highlights:Simple; familiar; easy to readBest for:Greeting cards; menus; programsConsider:Account for the fold in panel alignment
Tri-Fold / Letter Fold3 panelsA familiar brochure format that organizes services, products or information into an easy three-panel flow.Highlights:Three-panel format; compactBest for:Brochures; service menus; handoutsConsider:Inside panel is typically narrower
Z-Fold / Fan Fold3 panelsOpens accordion-style and works well for sequential information, schedules and visual storytelling.Highlights:Accordion-style openingBest for:Schedules; maps; sequential informationConsider:Panel order differs from a letter fold
Gate Fold3 panelsTwo outside panels fold inward toward the center, creating a reveal-style presentation.Highlights:Center reveal; symmetrical openingBest for:Invitations; premium brochuresConsider:Outer panels must meet accurately
Double Parallel Fold4 panelsFolds the sheet in the same direction more than once to fit more information into a compact finished size.Highlights:Compact; multiple panelsBest for:Detailed brochures; guidesConsider:Panel widths must nest correctly
Roll / Barrel Fold4 panelsPanels roll inward one after another, creating a compact brochure with a controlled reading sequence.Highlights:Controlled reading sequenceBest for:Brochures; product guidesConsider:Inner panels become progressively narrower
Double Gate Fold4 panelsAdds a second fold to the gate-fold format for a compact piece that opens outward in stages.Highlights:Layered opening; premium revealBest for:Invitations; premium brochuresConsider:Requires precise panel sizing
French / Quarter Fold4 panelsCombines folds in two directions to create a compact quarter-size finished piece.Highlights:Folds in two directionsBest for:Programs; maps; insertsConsider:Artwork must account for both fold directions
Accordion / Fan Fold4, 5 or 6 panelsAlternating folds create an expandable accordion format for longer sequences, diagrams, menus and information.Highlights:Expandable; flexible panel countBest for:Maps; menus; timelinesConsider:Confirm panel count and fold direction
Custom FoldSpecial fold patternUse when the project requires a fold configuration outside the standard choices; the illustration shows one example of a specialty multi-panel fold.Highlights:Specialty configurationBest for:Unique brochures; custom presentationsConsider:Confirm fold pattern before final artwork
Score Only1, 2 or 3 ScoresAdds one or more controlled crease lines without machine folding, helping heavier stocks fold accurately later.Highlights:Controlled crease; helps heavier stocks foldBest for:Cards; covers; hand-folded piecesConsider:Scoring does not include machine folding
Square CornersNo rounded cornersMaintains the conventional straight-cut corner profile for a crisp, standard finished piece.Highlights:Standard straight corners; familiar finishBest for:Most cards; flyers; inserts; general printed piecesConsider:Choose rounded corners when a softer finished profile is preferred
4 Rounded Corners — 1/8"1/8" radius on all four cornersCreates a subtle softened edge while keeping the overall shape close to a standard rectangle.Highlights:Subtle rounded finish on all cornersBest for:Business cards; loyalty cards; tagsConsider:Keep critical artwork clear of the corner radius
4 Rounded Corners — 1/4"1/4" radius on all four cornersProduces a more noticeable curve for a softer, more contemporary finished profile.Highlights:More visible rounded profile on all cornersBest for:Cards; tags; premium promotional piecesConsider:Larger radius removes more of the corner area
2 Rounded Corners1/8" or 1/4" radiusRounds only the top-left and bottom-right corners while the other two remain square, creating an asymmetric specialty look.Highlights:Distinctive asymmetrical rounded finishBest for:Tags; specialty cards; creative piecesConsider:Confirm which two corners are rounded
No Hole DrillingNo opening addedUse when the piece will be distributed flat and does not need string, hooks, fasteners or other hanging hardware.Highlights:Standard finished piece with no drilled holeBest for:Pieces that do not need hanging or binder placementConsider:Select drilling when the piece must attach or hang
1/8" Drilled HoleSmaller openingA discreet hole for lightweight string, thin fasteners or applications where the opening should remain visually subtle.Highlights:Small drilled hole; clean mechanical finishBest for:Tags; hang pieces; small attachmentsConsider:Keep important artwork clear of the hole
1/4" Drilled HoleLarger openingProvides more clearance for thicker string, hooks or fastening hardware used on tags, permits and hanging pieces.Highlights:Larger hole; easier hardware fitBest for:Tags; hangers; display cardsConsider:Requires more clear space around the hole
No PerforationPiece remains fully attachedChoose this when the finished product does not need a detachable coupon, ticket, reply section or tear-off portion.Highlights:Standard continuous sheet with no tear lineBest for:Pieces that remain intactConsider:Choose perforation when a section needs to detach
Perforation1" or 2" from edgeCreates a controlled tear line for coupons, tickets, reply cards, receipts or other information intended to detach cleanly.Highlights:Controlled tear line; detachable sectionBest for:Tickets; coupons; forms; response piecesConsider:Keep critical content clear of the perforation line
No Shrink Wrapping Standard loose / bulk packagingUse when counted bundles are unnecessary and normal finished packaging is sufficient for storage or distribution.
Shrink Wrapping Sets of 25 · 50 · 100 · 250 · 500Creates counted wrapped bundles that simplify inventory, storage, multi-location distribution and internal handling.
CollatedSets arranged in complete page orderKeeps multi-page jobs organized as complete sets so each copy is ready for distribution or additional finishing.Highlights:Complete sets in page orderBest for:Manuals; packets; multi-page handoutsConsider:Use uncollated when like pages should remain grouped
UncollatedLike pages grouped togetherKeeps all copies of page 1 together, then page 2, then page 3; useful when pages will be handled or assembled separately.Highlights:Like pages grouped togetherBest for:Forms; inserts; later assemblyConsider:Not ready as complete sets until assembled
StapledSimple multi-page fasteningA practical way to keep handouts, packets, forms and other loose-sheet sets together.Highlights:Simple fastening; economicalBest for:Handouts; packets; short document setsConsider:Very thick sets may need another binding method
3-Hole PunchPrepared for standard bindersAdds three evenly spaced holes so finished sheets can be placed directly into common three-ring binders.Highlights:Binder-ready; standard hole patternBest for:Training materials; manuals; reportsConsider:Keep content clear of the punch margin
TabsSection dividers for organized setsTabbed dividers make manuals, reports, training materials and reference sets easier to navigate.Highlights:Fast section navigation; organized presentationBest for:Manuals; training guides; reference documentsConsider:Plan tab labels and positions before production
Coil BindingFlexible spiral-style bindingDurable binding that opens easily and works well for manuals, workbooks, training materials and frequently handled documents.Highlights:Opens easily; durable; flexible spineBest for:Manuals; workbooks; training materialsConsider:Requires binding margin
Comb BindingPlastic comb spineA practical binding style for presentations, reports and manuals that may need pages added or replaced later.Highlights:Pages can be added or replacedBest for:Reports; presentations; manualsConsider:Comb spine remains visible
Perfect BindingSquare glued spineCreates a clean book-style spine for thicker booklets, catalogs, manuals and other multi-page publications.Highlights:Square glued spine; book-like appearanceBest for:Catalogs; manuals; thicker bookletsConsider:Requires sufficient page count and spine thickness
Saddle StitchFolded sheets stapled through the spineA common booklet binding method for brochures, programs, catalogs and publications with page counts suited to folded signatures.Highlights:Economical booklet bindingBest for:Programs; brochures; bookletsConsider:Page count should work in folded signatures
Thermal BindingHeat-activated adhesive spineCreates a clean finished edge for reports, proposals and document sets where a simple bound-book appearance is preferred.Highlights:Clean adhesive spineBest for:Reports; proposals; presentationsConsider:Best for compatible page counts and papers
Wire BindingTwin-loop wire bindingProvides a professional finish and allows bound pages to open comfortably for presentations, manuals and reference materials.Highlights:Professional appearance; opens comfortablyBest for:Manuals; presentations; calendarsConsider:Requires binding margin; wire remains visible
8–10 Business DaysExtended productionFor specialty materials, fabrication, larger quantities or projects that require additional production time.
5–7 Business DaysExtended standard productionFor projects that need additional fabrication, finishing or scheduling time beyond the standard production window.
3–4 Business DaysStandard productionBest for most estimator projects and configurations where normal production scheduling is acceptable.
2 Business DaysFormerly 2 Business DaysA faster production option for qualifying projects when you need your graphics sooner than the standard turnaround. Availability depends on the selected size, material, printing and finishing options.
Next Business DayRush productionFor urgent production-ready projects when the selected material, size and finishing qualify for next-business-day completion.
Same Business DayFastest rush option · cutoff appliesAvailable only for eligible configurations submitted production-ready before the applicable cutoff. Shipping or delivery time is separate.
Upload Artwork Now Print-ready file is availableSubmit the production file immediately when the PDF or other approved artwork is complete and ready for prepress review.
Provide Artwork Separately Send the file laterBuild the estimate or order first when the artwork is still being finalized, then provide the production file afterward.
Request Design Assistance Design / cleanup / prepress helpUse our team when artwork needs to be created, repaired, resized, adjusted or prepared correctly for production.
When should I use the Small Format Estimator?Use it when your project needs a custom size, an uncommon paper or stock, multiple finishing steps, personalization or a combination that is not available on a dedicated product page. It is useful for cards, flyers, brochures, tickets, tags, inserts, labels and many other flat or folded pieces.
How do I choose the finished size?Start with how the piece will be used, displayed, mailed, inserted or distributed. Enter the finished width and height, then choose the orientation that matches the artwork. For folded pieces, confirm both the flat size and the final folded size before preparing the file.
How should I choose a paper or stock?Choose by appearance, feel and function. Gloss and coated stocks enhance color and photography, uncoated papers are easier to write on, textured stocks add tactile character, and synthetic or adhesive materials are useful when added durability or specialty performance is needed.
Can several finishing options be combined?Often, yes. Folding, scoring, lamination, foil, rounded corners, hole drilling, perforation, contour cutting and shrink wrapping can be combined when the selected paper or stock and production method are compatible. If a combination is not shown online, request a Custom Quote.
What is needed for Cut to Shape artwork?Provide the print artwork plus a clean vector cut path that identifies the finished shape. Keep text, logos and other critical elements safely inside the cut line, and avoid unnecessarily complex paths that can make production difficult or leave fragile points in the finished piece.
Can every piece have different names, numbers or information?Yes, when Variable Data or Sequential Numbering is selected. Supply a clean data file with one record per finished piece and clearly identify which artwork fields are variable. We will review the supplied files before production to confirm the data and artwork can be merged correctly.
How fast can a Small Format project be produced?Turnaround depends on the selected size, stock, printing, finishing and artwork readiness. Standard and rush options are available for qualifying configurations. Production time begins after payment, usable artwork and required proof approval and does not include shipping or delivery time.
When should I use shrink wrapping?Shrink wrapping is helpful when finished pieces need to stay in counted sets for distribution, storage, multi-location delivery or internal handling. Choose the bundle quantity that fits your workflow, or select no shrink wrapping when loose finished pieces are preferred.