This month we're highlighting the business cards we printed for Abendago. The cards turned out amazing and show off some of the die-cutting we do here at Globe. You can learn more about them here >>
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The Globe Blog
It's Show Time
Tomorrow, April 11th, at the Tradex in Abbotsford, Globe Printers will be participating in the Fraser Valley Chambers of Commerce Business Showcase alongside some of the finest businesses and leaders the Valley has to offer. We’ve been working hard to prepare for our first time at this event and we’re excited to show you the results. Between 2pm and 7pm tomorrow, stop by our fresh-off-the-presses booth to chat with our print specialists and learn about the latest in print technology. We’ll be handing out a bunch of freebies including notepads, pens and the inspiring Globe Idea Book. We’re also holding a business card draw for a FREE custom canvas print valued at $200! You won’t want to miss it!
A Show-Stopping Catalogue
Maybe we’re bias, but we’re continually amazed by the awesome print projects our clients come up with. From time to time, we like to feature our client’s creative work to showcase their business and offer a taste of what we can do. This month we’re featuring a unique catalogue project that we recently printed for our client, Greenstar – a green technology company that provides innovative and practical lawn and garden solutions for better horticulture results without sacrificing the environment. We’ve been working with Greenstar since 2010 and love their willingness to try something new in order to print a show-stopping piece.
The Project: 134-page, full colour catalogue with 14 tabs to separate each section.
The Specs: To highlight the bold water splash cover design and give the impression that it’s actually wet, we applied a de-lustered matte laminate and then highlighted the water droplets with a spot high gloss UV coating.
The Results: The contrast of the high gloss UV against the matte laminate gave this catalogue a one of a kind finish for an attention-grabbing first impression that stands out from the competition. Greenstar was extremely pleased with how it turned out and now has an attractive, comprehensive product guide to offer their customers a sleek and user-friendly purchasing experience.
To learn how we can transform your great ideas into eye-catching and effective print solutions, contact us today for a free consultation and estimate:
BC: 604.864.2349
TF: 1.866.864.5623
info@globeprinters.com
globeprinters.com
Globe Is Running For Water
At Globe Printers, we’ve always upheld that we have a responsibility to be more than just a provider of professional print services, but to also contribute to the greater good of the communities we serve. So when my good friends Ken Baerg and Peg Peters, two of the founders of Run for Water, approached us for print support, we were all ears. And after hearing about their inspiring efforts to provide a clean and sustainable water source for the people of Ethiopia, we were in.
What’s great about Run for Water is that they’re breaking down a huge, global issue into a tangible, local movement that promotes community spirit and physical activity as we all work together for a solution to the worldwide water crisis. We also appreciate their commitment to financial transparency and stewardship, demonstrated by keeping overhead costs low and ensuring the majority of donations go directly towards funding water projects.
We feel privileged to be part of such a great initiative, and participating in the Run for Water event is an annual highlight for us.
This year’s event is being held on May 27, 2012 and registrants have the option of participating in a 5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon. Personally, my family and I will be taking part in the 5K while other members of Globe can be found participating by running in one of the events or manning a water station.
To learn more about Run for Water or to register for the event, please visit their website and be sure to check out their exceptionally cool and educational video animation.
We’d love to see you there as we rally for this great cause!
-Ken
PS: The Fraser Valley Chambers of Commerce Business Showcase is coming up on April 11, 2012 at the Tradex in Abbotsford. So mark your calendars to come out and connect with hundreds of local business and leaders.
PPS: For all your print needs, get in touch with one of our print-specialists for a free consultation and estimate – toll free at 1.866.864.5623 or emailinfo@globeprinters.com.
Ken's Corner
Happy Leap Year from Globe! I don’t know about you, but I kind of like the extra day tacked on to every fourth February…it’s one more day that we get to do what we love – print stuff. And the presses have been hot in the early stages of 2012 with many more print projects on the docket. Looking ahead, we’re excited to be participating in The Fraser Valley Chambers of Commerce Business Showcasecoming up in April. This is our first time exhibiting at this show, but we’ve heard great things from local business owners. Featuring hundreds of exhibitors from across the Fraser Valley and with more than 1,200 business owners and decision makers attending, it’s sure to be a great event! Stop by our booth to see the latest technological advances in the world of print. Stay tuned for more details!
In Other News
We recently acquired a new Large Format Printing Machine. It’s similar to the one we already have, but this powerful new beauty specializes in both indoor and outdoor “roll media” which allows us to create stretch frame prints, over-sized wall signage and brilliant looking pop-up banners. Along with producing great looking material, this machine prints quicker with no dry time allowing us to better serve our clients. And because it uses latex ink, it’s an environmentally friendly, durable and cost effective print solution.
Banners and signage are valuable marketing tools for tradeshows, events and in-store displays, so if you haven’t invested in this effective print format or if you’re due for an upgrade, now is a great time to talk to your Sales Rep.
BC: 604.864.2349
TF: 866.864.5623
info@globeprinters.com
Holiday Greetings From Ken
During the Christmas season, I can't help but reflect on the year that was. I suppose it has something to do with the calendar year coming to an end and the nostalgia that Christmas brings. So as we wrap things up (no pun intended) for 2011, I'd like to share some of the highlights from a great year at Globe:
- Hosting an Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Connection Event - It was an honour to host and meet fellow small business owners from around the community.
- New Advertisement at the Abbotsford Sports & Entertainment Centre – I have to admit, it’s pretty cool to see our name circling the local arena in bright, LED lights.
- 100s of Cool Print Projects – We have some really creative clients and it’s always a highlight to see the unique work that comes through our presses.
- Bus Bench Ads – Globe employees and clients have thoroughly enjoyed trying to spot our bus bench ads throughout the city. My personal favourite – the one that simply says, “We Hope No One Is Sitting Here”.
But most importantly, as we prepare to shut down the presses for 2011, I’m thankful for our loyal customers. We love to print great looking stuff, and it’s our awesome clients that keep the presses hot and allow us to do what we love, day-in and day-out.
So in the spirit of the holiday, I raise a virtual glass of eggnog to you, our customers, whom we have had the pleasure of serving throughout the year. I hope your holiday season is filled with warmth and joy and spent in the company of family and friends.
As for me, I’m off to the homeland – Saskatoon – to celebrate Christmas with the family and bask in the snow and dry, crisp, bone chillingly cold air of a Saskatchewan winter. There’s something about it that I love…seriously. I’m also looking forward to my Mom’s fruitcake. I know most people hate it, but not me; it’s my favourite kind of Christmas baking and no one makes it like my Mom does. I can’t wait.
From all of us at Globe Printers, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! See you in 2012.
Ken
PS: GLOBE HOLIDAY HOURS
Just a heads up, Globe Printers will be closed from 3:00pm on December 23rd, 2011 until we re-open on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012 at 8:00am. We look forward to serving you in the New Year and printing lots of great stuff together! If you have any questions before the 23rd, please contact us at:
BC: 604.864.2349
TF: 1.866.864.5623
info@globeprinters.com
KEN’S CORNER – CHAMBER CONNECTION EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
A few weeks ago, Globe was host to a Chamber Connection Event at our facility. These events, put on by the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, are meant to be an avenue for small business owners in the community to make new connections, exchange ideas and build relationships. It was also a great opportunity to showcase our print shop. Tours were offered throughout the evening, giving everyone the chance to see our print presses in action. It was a big hit!
The evening began with the Fraser Valley Indo Canadian Business Association and the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce signing a 'Relationship Accord’– which will ultimately benefit the business community of Abbotsford. Other highlights included Fiona Brett’s speech and business card draws for gift certificates to great local businesses like Cactus Club, Town Cinema, Esso and Duke of Dublin.
The event was a great success and Globe was thrilled to be involved! We’d also like to give a big shout out to Klassic Catering, who provided delicious food and excellent service throughout the evening.
A MINI GUIDE TO PRINT TECHNIQUES
At Globe, we’re all about helping make things easier for our clients. When it comes to deciding which print techniques you’d like to apply, it can be tough to know where to start. So for your next print project, here’s a mini guide to help you communicate with your designer, and us, to make sure you get exactly the look you want!
| PRINTING TECHNIQUE | DESCRIPTION |
| Embossing/De-bossing | Embossing creates a raised impression (that can be felt by touch) on paper. De-bossing creates a depressed impression. This can add a cool ‘3D’ effect to a print piece. |
| Lamination | Lamination is the process of sealing a material between two layers of plastic (or similar material). The treatment is water-resistant, tear-resistant, complements vibrant colours and helps reduce damage from wear and tear. |
| Varnish | A varnish is a liquid coating applied to a printed surface to add a clear glossy, matte, satin or neutral finish. A great way to seal in colour and make images pop! |
| Foil-Stamp | A foil-stamp is when a layer of foil (in the colour of your choice) is adhered to a material through a heating process. This can be a really elegant touch on a print piece. |
| Die Cut | A die cut is when an object, shape or design is 'cut' out of a material. This is the technique used for business card holders in sales folders, but it’s also a creative way to add a unique element to a brochure or direct mail piece. |
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at:
BC: 604.864.2349
SK: 306.955.3373
info@globeprinters.com
GET NOTICED WITH GLOBE’S MONTHLY SPECIAL
Tradeshows, seminars, conventions and other events are all great ways to promote your business and expand your network. But in a large crowd, how do you get noticed and stand out from the pack? Maximize exposure at your next event with Globe’s Monthly Special of Pop-Up Banners for only $399! Standing roughly 6.5” tall and spanning 3” wide, these banners roll-down into an extremely mobile pack and are a great way to get noticed. This offer is only valid for the month of November, so call us today at 604.864.2349 or toll free at 1.866.864.5623, to make sure you get your order in on time!
A MESSAGE FROM KEN
Summer always brings back fond memories as I reminisce about Globe’s humble beginnings back in August of 1994, when Globe was a one-man (me) shop, printing out of a very small (and hot!) warehouse. At the risk of aging myself, email didn't exist and computers were the size of small cars, yet business flourished. Today, we operate out of a full-service print facility and offer the latest technologies and techniques in print, and I’m thankful to say that business is still good! Over the years, I’ve come to realize that its people that drive Globe’s success and I’m grateful for a fantastic team of employees that make it possible to serve the valuable clients whose commitment and trust continue to make this whole venture possible.
CALENDAR? I don't even know her.
If you’ve seen our new bus bench campaign that went up at the beginning of summer, or if you watch The Office, you will probably appreciate that headline a little bit more.
It may seem like summer just arrived, but with another flip of the calendar page and fall just around the corner, it’s not too early to start thinking about 2012 calendars. Offering countless design and print options, calendars are a creative and practical way to show your appreciation to clients and suppliers. Plus, with the added benefit of your gift offering a subtle, yet constant reminder of your business with its permanent spot on their desk, calendars truly are a gift that keeps on giving…for you and your clients.
If you’re looking for creative ideas or would like some help coming up with something memorable, be sure to check out our website for the latest ideas.
For more information, please contact us at:
BC: 604.864.2349
SK: 306.955.3373
info@globeprinters.com
GET DEALT SOME CARDS with GLOBE'S MONTHLY SPECIAL!
Running low on business cards? Hired a new employee? Refreshed your brand? Well you’re in luck. Globe is offering a special deal on business cards now through October 15th. For just $199* (plus HST), you’ll get a sleek new set of 4/4 full-colour (CMYK in technical speak) business cards printed on 10-point cardstock and featuring a smooth, double-sided matte laminate finish. Call us today toll-free, 1.866.864.5623, to make sure you get your order in on time - just remember to mention this newsletter when you call!
*Price based on quantities of 1,000 with a minimum order of 1,000.
Vote For Dave
Globe is excited to announce that our very own Dave Hopkins is our nominee for this year’s CMYK Print Idol – a competition put on by Unisource National to determine Western Canada’s Top Print Rep. Dave’s not much of a singer, so a Canadian Idol Win is out of the picture, but he sure is one heck of a great print rep, and worthy of the title CMYK Print Idol.
So we’re turning to our valued customers to help Dave seal the deal. Click here to vote for Dave to be the next CMYK Print Idol as Western Canada’s Top Print Rep, and there could be something in it for you too. By simply voting, you become eligible to win 1 of 4 weekly prizes of a $200 Fairmont Hotel Gift Certificate (courtesy of Unisource Canada)!
We have until October 28th to rally votes, so please get voting and feel free to share with friends by forwarding this email. One vote per IP address is allowed.
For more information, please contact us toll free at 1.866.864.5623 or email, info@globeprinters.com.
Thanks for your support!
Ken
Making Your Inbox Happy
We love our customers. So much so that we've gone out and created a special newsletter just for you.
What can you expect in our periodic newsletter? Aside from the joy of correspondence, we'll be informing our subscribers about exclusive subscriber-only offers and discounts, the latest results-getting innovations in print and digital, and a ton of other neat things that you won’t want to miss.
You're welcome to join by clicking the subscribe links below. Since you're in a clicking mood, why not follow us on twitter, too.
If you’d prefer not to experience the joy of receiving the Globe Printers newsletter, you can always unsubscribe by clicking the links below.
Digitally Yours,
Ken Giesbrecht and the Globe Printers Team
Picking a Paper for Print - The Basics
For the love of paper. With so many paper options available knowing which one is the right choice for the job is often a challenge.
Paper creates a tactile experience. Before someone even register the contents of a piece, the look, smell and feel of the paper will have already created a certain tone or perception of the project. For example, a brochure printed on an uncoated, heavy, recycled paper may set the tone of being environmentally conscious, organic or sophisticated.
The type of paper you choose to print on will significantly contribute to the final look and feel of any print job. In saying that, here are a few things to know when considering paper stock.
Uncoated vs. Coated?
Paper is either uncoated or coated.
Uncoated paper feels more natural and organic due to its fibrous content. The fibres in this paper remain open (imagine a road with potholes) allowing the paper to soak up more ink (like a pothole would collect rain). Due to the enhanced ink absorption, the project will look different than the same project printed on a coated paper. Uncoated paper is typically used for business cards, letterhead and text heavy documents. For your organization’s stationery needs, it’s recommended to maintain continuity by selecting a paper from the same stock family, so the printing will maintain a visual and tactile consistency.
Like its name implies, coated papers are coated, meaning that the fibres (pot holes) in this paper are filled giving it a smooth, flat surface. This improves the lustre and colour of projects printed on this type of paper. Due to this coating, ink sits on the surface of the paper (which can increase drying times) making images look sharper and blacks, richer. Coated papers tend to be used for photographs or image heavy products.
Coated papers are divided into matte, semi-matte and gloss and you might also come across words like silk and dull, depending on the paper company.
Along with the type of paper, the weight (thickness) of the paper needs to be considered. Most paper companies provide a text (lighter paper), cover (heavier paper) and envelope in a line of paper stock. Simply stated, the higher the pound (lb) weight of the paper, the thicker it is. For projects such as business cards, choosing a higher weighted paper will be the most effective – usually 110lb paper (or 130 cover) is usually ideal. For catalog printing, a 100lb cover stock would work well for the outside cover, while an 80lb text paper will provide a nice balance for the inside pages.
Give us a call or contact us and a Globe rep will be able to guide you through any questions you might have.
Designing for Printing Companies - 7 Steps
In addition to our in-house design department, we work with a broad range of independent graphic designers. We appreciate the unique background and skills offered by each, so we asked a few of them for their advice and words of wisdom for up-and-coming designers; nothing too technical, but more general guidelines.
1. Get to know the client – ask them lots of questions. Find out what their needs are and the goals they are trying to obtain. Studies show that almost all designers agree that the initial information gathering process with the client is the most important step in creating effective design. A good habit to establish is creating a design brief at this step.
- What are other brands doing well?
- What are their competitors doing?
- Which brand would your client want to ‘grow up and be like’? What does the brand look like and what kind of personality does it have?
This step helps expand on ideas. Perfect example: the Nike swoosh was inspired from the wing of the Greek Goddess statue for victory, Nike. Don’t limit your ideas, do your research.
Globe Print 101 by Dave Hopkins
Step 2: Pre-Press
Step 3: Pre-Flight
Step 4: Choose your print method
Step 5: Choose your paper stock
Step 6: Bask in the completed glory
Download the Print 101 Whitepaper to keep as a quick reference.
The QR Barcode: a new beginning
or a digital nail in the print industry coffin?
Tweet
This morning, a friend of mine sent over an interesting article about QR (or 2D barcodes) – those little “digital squares” (see picture) that are starting to surface in every major metropolitan area on various print mediums of all shapes and sizes. The idea is that a curious consumer scans the 2D barcode with their chosen mobile device and is digitally connected with some form of relevant mobile-delivered media.
A great example of this comes from this past summer, where, in an unprecedented advertising initiative of cross-medium and cross-media promotional exploration, Calvin Klein launched a billboard advertising campaign in New York and Los Angeles featuring QR barcodes. The QR barcodes connected consumers with the campaign’s “sexy” (aka half-naked models doing what half-naked models do) online-only video promoting their new “X” brand of skinny jeans.
It seems that all of the talk surrounding advertising and promotion as of late is focused on print vs. digital, but in my opinion that’s a flawed paradigm through which to examine the amazing age that we find ourselves living in. Instead of drawing up battle lines and choosing sides, we need to continue to collectively push the known boundaries of cross-promotional creativity.
The QR barcode is a magnificent example of how print and digital can be effectively applied in a complimentary capacity – using print mediums to drive consumers online where they can access rich, value-added media content.
I love the fancy QR barcode – but at the end of the day, they need to be printed on something before they can be scanned. Can’t we all just get along?
