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Glossary of printing terms

Account Manager

Your primary contact at Full Spectrum Print & Marketing for job updates, estimates, project queries, and all aspects of our services.

Binding or Bindery

A process for securing pages together. Common methods include Saddle Stitch and Perfect Binding.

Bleed

To avoid white edges after trimming, any image or background extending to the page edge must continue at least 3mm beyond the final cut line.

CMYK

The four-colour process used in printing: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black. These colours are layered to create full-colour images.

Coated Paper

A paper type with a glossy or satin surface that prevents ink from being absorbed, resulting in sharper images and vibrant colours.

Coating

A protective layer applied to printed pieces. Aqueous coating is an eco-friendly, water-based option, while UV and varnish coatings provide additional durability and shine.

Dot Gain

The spread of ink when absorbed into paper, which can affect the sharpness and darkness of printed images.

DTP (Desktop Publishing)

The creation of print-ready designs using software such as Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress.

Encapsulation

A process where printed material is sealed within a layer of plastic for protection.

EPS File

A vector file format used for high-quality images, ensuring scalability without loss of resolution.

4/1 (Four Back One)

A print job that uses full-colour (CMYK) on one side and single-colour (usually black) on the reverse.

4 Colour

Another term for full-colour printing using the CMYK process.

FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council)

An international organisation that promotes responsible forest management. Full Spectrum is proud to be FSC® certified, ensuring sustainable sourcing of materials.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

A method for transferring large digital files. We provide secure FTP access for clients needing to submit artwork.

GIF File

A raster image format commonly used for web graphics and simple animations.

ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation)

A global standard for quality management. Full Spectrum is certified to ISO 9001 (quality control) and ISO 14001 (environmental management) and operates to ISO 12647 colour standards.

JPEG File

A compressed image format widely used for digital photography and web images.

Lamination

A protective plastic coating applied to printed materials. Available in matte, silk, and gloss finishes.

Offset Printing

A traditional printing method using aluminium plates to transfer ink onto paper. Full Spectrum offers both offset litho and digital printing services.

PDF (Portable Document Format)

A universal file format for sharing and printing documents without cross-platform issues. Preferred format for submitting print-ready artwork.

Perf (Perforation)

The process of creating tiny holes in paper for easy tearing, commonly used for vouchers and business reply cards.

Perfect Bound

A binding method used for thicker documents, creating a spine similar to a paperback book.

Plate

A component of an offset press that transfers ink to the printing surface.

Plus Cover/Self Cover

Plus Cover: The cover is printed on a separate, often thicker stock and is not counted in the page total.
Self Cover: The cover is the same stock as the internal pages and included in the total page count.

Poly Bagging

A protective plastic wrap used for mailing items such as brochures and magazines.

Resolution

The level of detail in an image, measured in dots per inch (dpi). Standard print resolution is 300 dpi for sharp results.

RGB (Red, Green, Blue)

A colour system used for digital screens. For print, images must be converted to CMYK to ensure accurate colour reproduction.

Sealing

A process to protect ink from smudging, ensuring durability in handling and transportation.

Sheet-Fed Press

A printing press that feeds individual sheets of paper, allowing for higher quality and versatility in print production.

Stitching (Saddle Stitch)

A method of binding using staples along the fold of a booklet.

TIFF File

A high-resolution image format commonly used in professional printing.

Uncoated Paper

A paper type with no coating, allowing for greater ink absorption. Commonly used for stationery and newspapers.

UV Coating

A high-gloss, protective coating applied to printed materials for enhanced durability and shine.

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Quality, Sustainability & Assurance

At Full Spectrum, quality and sustainability go hand-in-hand:

Certified Quality Management

We hold ISO 9001, ensuring consistent quality and customer satisfaction across all our processes.

FSC Certified Materials

We source paper and board from responsibly managed forests, supporting sustainable practices.

Environmental Responsibility

Our ISO 14001 certification reflects our commitment to reducing our environmental impact, from waste management to energy efficiency.

A forward-thinking print partner focused on sustainable production, continual investment in people, and the latest print technology.

Quality, Sustainability & Assurance

As an ISO 9001, ISO 27001, and ISO 14001 certified company, we maintain the highest standards in print quality, data security, and environmental responsibility. Full Spectrum Print is FSC Accredited

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