Greeting Card Printing

Greeting Card Printing: Tips and Techniques

Greeting card printing is a popular way to create customised cards for a variety of occasions. From birthdays and weddings to Christmas and Easter, greeting cards are a timeless way to express your sentiments to friends and family. With the advent of digital printing technology, it has become easier than ever to design and print your own greeting cards.

Whether you are a small business owner looking to create customised cards for your clients or an individual looking to design a unique card for a loved one, there are a variety of options available for greeting card printing. From online printing services to local print shops, there are many ways to get your cards printed. The key is to find a printing service that offers high-quality printing at an affordable price.

When it comes to designing your greeting cards, you can choose from a variety of templates or create your own design from scratch. Many printing services offer easy-to-use design tools that allow you to upload your own images and add text and other design elements. With so many options available, greeting card printing is a fun and creative way to express yourself and share your message with others.

History of Greeting Card Printing

Early Methods

The history of greeting card printing dates back to ancient China, where messages of goodwill were exchanged to celebrate the New Year [1]. Early Egyptians also used papyrus scrolls to send greetings [1]. In Europe, woodcut printing was used to create religious images and texts, which were then sold to the public [2].

The first commercial Christmas card was printed in 1843 in England by Sir Henry Cole [3]. The card was designed by John Callcott Horsley and depicted a family enjoying Christmas festivities [3]. The card was lithographed on a single sheet of paper and then hand-coloured [3].

Technological Advancements

The Industrial Revolution and the mechanisation of the printing press had a significant impact on the greeting card industry [4]. The hand printing press had been used since the late 14th century [2]. However, the introduction of steam-powered presses in the 19th century led to faster and more efficient printing [4].

In the 20th century, offset printing became the dominant method of printing greeting cards [2]. This method allowed for high-quality, full-colour printing at a lower cost than traditional methods [2]. Digital printing has also become increasingly popular, allowing for even more customisation and personalisation of greeting cards [5].

Overall, the history of greeting card printing is a testament to the evolution of printing technology and the enduring popularity of sending heartfelt messages to loved ones.

[1] https://www.greetingcard.org/history/ [2] https://northerncards.com/blogs/nc/the-history-of-the-greeting-card [3] https://www.britannica.com/topic/greeting-card [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greeting_card [5] https://www.printful.com/blog/the-history-of-greeting-cards-and-how-to-design-your-own/

Printing Techniques

Offset Lithography

Offset lithography is a popular printing technique used for producing high-quality greeting cards. It involves transferring an inked image from a plate to a rubber blanket, and then onto the paper. This technique is known for its ability to produce sharp, vibrant, and consistent images. It is ideal for printing large quantities of cards at a low cost per unit. Offset lithography is best suited for printing on smooth, coated paper stock.

Digital Printing

Digital printing is a modern printing technique that involves printing an image directly from a digital file onto paper. This technique is known for its ability to produce high-quality prints quickly and cost-effectively. It is ideal for printing small quantities of cards and for producing cards with variable data, such as personalised messages or names. Digital printing is best suited for printing on uncoated paper stock. This is by far the most popular with of printing in the present day and the increase in technology has meant that the results from this technique can rival Litho.

Design Considerations

When designing a greeting card, there are several design considerations that should be taken into account to ensure that the final product is visually appealing and effective in conveying the intended message.

Artwork and Imagery

The artwork and imagery used on a greeting card can greatly impact its overall design. It is important to choose images that are high quality and relevant to the occasion. For example, a birthday card may feature images of balloons, cakes, or presents, while a Christmas card may feature images of snowflakes, trees, or Santa Claus. When selecting artwork and imagery, it is also important to consider the placement and composition of the images to ensure that they are balanced and visually appealing.

Typography and Text

Typography and text are also important design considerations when creating a greeting card. The font used should be easy to read and appropriate for the occasion. For example, a formal occasion may require a more traditional font, while a more casual occasion may allow for a more playful font. It is also important to consider the placement and size of the text to ensure that it is legible and does not detract from the overall design.

Colour Palettes

The colour palette used on a greeting card can greatly impact its overall design. It is important to choose colours that are appropriate for the occasion and that complement each other. For example, a Valentine’s Day card may feature shades of pink and red, while a sympathy card may feature more muted colours such as grey or blue. When selecting a colour palette, it is also important to consider the emotions and feelings that the colours may evoke.

Material Selection

The type of material used for a greeting card can also impact its overall design. It is important to choose a material that is appropriate for the occasion and that complements the design. For example, a glossy finish may be appropriate for a more formal occasion, while a matte finish may be more appropriate for a more casual occasion. When selecting a material, it is also important to consider the durability and longevity of the card.

Overall, by taking into account these design considerations, one can create a visually appealing and effective greeting card that effectively conveys the intended message.

Printing Process

Prepress Preparation

Before printing greeting cards, a series of prepress preparation steps must be taken to ensure the final product meets the desired quality. This includes setting up the artwork correctly, selecting the appropriate paper stock, and ensuring that the colour is correct.

The artwork should be set up with the correct dimensions, bleed, and trim marks. Bleed refers to the extra area around the artwork that extends beyond the final trim size. This ensures that there are no white borders around the edges of the card. Trim marks show where the card will be cut to its final size.

The paper stock used for printing greeting cards should be of high quality. The type of paper stock used can affect the final product’s look and feel. A heavier stock is usually preferable for greeting cards as it gives the card a more substantial and professional feel.

Colour is an essential aspect of greeting card printing. It is crucial to ensure that the colour is correct before printing. This can be achieved by creating a colour proof, which is a sample print of the artwork. The colour proof should be checked for accuracy before proceeding with the printing process.

Press Setup

Once the prepress preparation is complete, the printing process can begin. The press setup is the next step in the process. The press operator will set up the printing press according to the specifications outlined in the prepress preparation.

The printing press will need to be set up with the correct ink colours, paper stock, and print settings. The press operator will also need to ensure that the press is calibrated correctly to achieve the desired colour accuracy.

Post-Press Finishing

After the printing process is complete, the greeting cards will need to be finished. This includes cutting the cards to their final size, folding them, and adding any additional finishing touches such as embossing or foil stamping.

The cutting process is essential to ensure that the cards are cut accurately to their final size. The cards will then be folded according to the desired fold type. Finally, any additional finishing touches will be added before the cards are packaged and shipped.

In conclusion, the printing process for greeting cards involves several steps, including prepress preparation, press setup, and post-press finishing. Each step is crucial to ensure that the final product meets the desired quality. By following these steps, printers can produce high-quality greeting cards that meet their customers’ expectations.

Environmental Considerations

Sustainable Materials

Greeting card printing companies are increasingly using sustainable materials such as recycled paper and card, vegetable-based inks, and plant-based coatings. These materials are environmentally friendly and reduce the carbon footprint of the printing process. Vegetable-based inks, for example, are made from renewable resources, such as soy and linseed oil, and are biodegradable.

Some printing companies also use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper and card. This certification ensures that the paper and card come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.

At The Calendar Company we value our environment and so we pay a little extra for our paper to offset the carbon that is produced from turning trees into paper. New woodland is created each year within the UK from these donations.

Recycling and Waste Reduction

Recycling and waste reduction are also important considerations in greeting card printing. Many printing companies have implemented recycling programs to reduce waste. They also use digital printing technology, which reduces the amount of paper waste generated during the printing process.

Additionally, some companies offer eco-friendly options for customers, such as plantable cards that can be planted in soil to grow wildflowers. These cards are made from recycled paper embedded with seeds, which sprout when planted.

In conclusion, greeting card printing companies are making great strides in reducing their environmental impact. By using sustainable materials and implementing recycling and waste reduction programs, they are making a positive contribution to the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can artists find professional services for greeting card printing?

Artists can find professional services for greeting card printing from various companies that specialise in printing services. These companies offer a range of printing options, including custom designs, paper types, and finishes. 

How can one print greeting cards in bulk for commercial purposes?

Printing greeting cards in bulk for commercial purposes requires a different approach than printing cards at home. It is recommended to work with a professional printing company that specialises in commercial printing services. These companies offer a range of printing options, including offset printing, digital printing, and letterpress printing. It is important to consider factors such as quantity, paper type, and finishing options when choosing a printing company.

What are the options for affordable greeting card printing in the UK?

The Calendar Company offers affordable card printing using the best stocks on the market, as a standard finish we produce all of our cards on a 300gsm Invercote stock, we also offer more premium stock such a Gesso and Mohawk both of which are high quality embossed uncoated stocks with the same weight of 300gsm. 

Which printers are recommended for high-quality greeting card production?

When it comes to high-quality greeting card production, it is recommended to use a professional-grade printer that is designed for printing on heavy cardstock paper. Some recommended printers include the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000, Epson SureColor P800, and HP Envy 4520. It is important to consider factors such as print quality, ink efficiency, and paper handling when choosing a printer.

What should be considered when choosing paper for greeting card printing?

When choosing paper for greeting card printing, it is important to consider factors such as paper weight, texture, and finish. Cardstock paper is the most commonly used paper for greeting card printing, and it is available in a range of weights and finishes. It is recommended to choose a paper weight of at least 250gsm to ensure the card is sturdy and durable. Additionally, it is important to consider the finish of the paper, such as matte or glossy, to achieve the desired look and feel.

Main Menu