Whether it’s marketing materials or family photos, knowing how to use your printer properly can make a significant difference in the quality of the job. It can also save you cash by avoiding repeat printing jobs. Here are a few tips to help you get it right the first time. 

5 Printer Mistakes & How to Avoid Them 

1. Disregarding Margins

Many designs for projects such as fliers and promotional materials have some element, such as an image, shape, or bar, that is supposed to go to the edge of the page. You’ll have to program the printer to print accordingly; otherwise, you’ll end up with a white strip on the side of the page. The amount of “bleed” required depends on the printer and project. Also, center text to ensure it is not bordering the edge; otherwise, it may appear crowded, making it difficult to read. 

2. Wrong File Formats

Different file formats are used for specific purposes. For print projects, .gif and .png don’t work as well as others. Although you can print in these formats, the PPI (pixels per inch) is not high enough to produce a bright, quality image. JPG and RBG are best for printing images. 

3. Spelling & Grammar Errors

Spelling and grammar errors are all-too-common. Always proofread designs and documents before printing them. Having such mistakes in business or marketing materials could make you appear unprofessional or careless to customers and prospective business partners. Use editing tools such as spellcheck, and have another person proofread before printing. 

4. Saving Black & White Images as Color

Many people save black and white files in color without realizing it, which can result in poor quality printing and wasted money on ink. Save black and white images and documents as such. If a color document is to be used for personal or internal purposes only, consider converting it and saving a black and white copy to print to save money. 

5. Using Low-Resolution Images

Printed photos should have a resolution of at least 300 PPI. The way you find the resolution depends on the type of computer and program you’re using. For Macs, you can click Preview and Command+I, while for PCs, you can right-click on the file, select Properties, and click Details. Low-resolution images, when printed, may be blurry or grainy. 

Aside from these common errors, some printer problems are caused by machine malfunctions. If you need printer repair or want to upgrade your machine, turn to the helpful professionals at Alpha Laser Richmond Corp. in Staten Island, NY. Since 1993, this family-owned business has provided reliable, cost-effective support to individuals and businesses throughout New York City, Long Island, Westchester, and central and northern New Jersey. Call (718) 317-1263 to speak with a team member or visit the website for updates and information.