Printed Envelopes Buying Tips
An easy way to add a degree of elegance and professionalism to a business, organisation or personal event is through customised stationery. However, many people do not consider that they could take the process a step further by using custom printed envelopes.
A printed envelope can add just the right element in the presentation of a desirable image.
Businesses benefit from a print envelope because letters are often the first form of communication to prospective customers. The first impression a customer has of a business is always the most important. Getting started with a customised envelope is not a mindless task. Envelopes come in many different forms, and not all of them will work for every type of business. This guide presents some of the choices that will need to be considered when deciding to purchase envelopes.
Printing Technology
Printed envelopes are created through one of two basic methods: lithographic and flexographic. Lithographic envelopes are overprinted through specialised machinery that can create up to 50,000 units per hour. Envelopes can be printed in up to four colours with the option of adding two special colours. High quality images can also be added through this cost-effective method. Lithographic envelopes are best used for short run purposes with a quick turnaround.
Flexographic envelopes are constructed through machinery that is more advanced than lithographic machinery. Flexographic machinery prints the envelopes and folds them in a single process. This type of envelope is more affordable for runs requiring over 50,000 units, and they are often used by large businesses for their outgoing business reply needs. These envelopes are printed in up to two colours, and the speed of the process does not allow for close register images.
Envelope Size
Choosing the size for a print envelope is one of the more important factors to consider. Envelopes are available in a range of sizes, but most businesses choose one of the four most common sizes: C4, C5, C6 or DL.
• C4 – This size envelope holds an A4 sheet unfolded. Many businesses use this size for catalogues and brochures that are not easily folded.
• C5 – This size is designed to hold an A4 sheet folded over once. It will also hold an A5 sheet unfolded.
• C6 – This size holds an A4 sheet folded over twice or an A5 sheet folded over once.
• DL – This size is most popular for business letters. It is designed to hold an A4 sheet folded into thirds.
Envelope Style
Another factor to consider when choosing a printed envelope is the style of the envelope. Envelopes come in three basic styles, which are as follows:
• Banker – This style opens on a long side and has a triangular or V-shaped flap.
• Wallet – This style also opens on a long side but has a shorter, squared flap.
• Pocket – This style opens on a short side.
After choosing the basic style, it is then necessary to decide on a seal flap type. The following are the most common seal flap types:
• Gummed – These are the basic flaps with a glue that requires moistening to seal.
• Self-seal – These use latex to seal without requiring moistening.
• Peal-and-seal – This type uses an adhesive with a liner that must be removed for sealing.
Company Profile:
Ace-Envelopes is one of UK’s leading suppliers of over 700 types of plain envelopes, bespoke custom made envelopes, business envelopes and printed envelopes for next day delivery service to meet your business needs. To view the view range of printed envelopes from Ace – envelopes please visit – http://www.ace-envelopes.co.uk/
