FAQ
We have collated some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers below
However, if you are unable to find the answer to your question below then please do not hesitate to contact our team on 02380 671685 and we will be more than happy to answer any queries you have.
In which file format can artwork be supplied?
This depends a little on the style of bag required. Polythene, cotton and kraft bag artwork should be supplied in vectorised illustrator EPS format. Laminated bag artwork can be supplied as a TIFF, EPS or Hi Res PDF. All artwork should be supplied minimum 300 dpi with all fonts set to outlines. If applicable then Pantone refs should be stated. Of course if GIFF's, TIFF's or any other IF's are a mystery to you, then please call Jay our studio manager for friendly helpful advice. We can usually overcome any issues surrounding artwork.
Do I get a proof to approve?
Yes. We will email a proof to you as a PDF Document. It will be based on the artwork you send us. If you have asked for a particular image size and/or positioning within the print area, it will be shown on the proof. It is vital that you check the proof thoroughly for content and positioning as you will be responsible for any errors (which can and do happen) if approved by you. We will always require a proof approval before we can proceed to print.
What will be the setting-up (origination) cost?
This varies according to the type of bag and therefore printing process employed. For litho printed high-quality laminate bags the cost is included in our quotation. For flexo printed polythene and kraft bags the cost depends upon the print area involved and number of colours printed. An estimate is always provided on our quotation and firm prices are given once we receive artwork, and always before we proceed. The plates or "stereos" are retained for future use on reprints. For silk screen printing, which is used on cotton bags and overprinted bags, the charge is £20.00 per colour for the screens. Screens are recharged each time the job is repeated as it is not possible to retain screens after use.
How quickly will they arrive?
Delivery timings vary according to the product required. Some bags are sourced from Europe or the Far East to maximise cost benefits. Others are produced here in the UK. If a delivery date is important, for example for an exhibition, then you must advise us at the time of order. This will influence the advice we give regarding suitable products or sources. We would never accept an order that we know will not meet a deadline but cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control.
How do I pay?
We will issue a proforma invoice and payment can be made by debit or credit card, by BACS or by cheque. Payment must be received before we can proceed unless payment terms have been agreed.
Can you issue an invoice so that I can pay in advance?
Yes, we always raise a pro-forma invoice to allow payment in advance. A final VAT invoice will be provided once the goods have been delivered.
What sort of print quality can I expect?
Print quality is determined by the quality of artwork that we receive as well as the method of printing employed. Litho printing, used for luxury rope handle bags, offers the highest degree of print quality/definition and enables photo quality images to be produced. Flexographic printing, used for polythene and kraft bags, has a lower definition but still retains good clarity. Very good results are achieved on our 4 colour process flexo press using recently developed NX plates, this technology produces near litho printed results. Screen printing, used on cotton, jute and overprinted rope handle bags, is again not as defined as litho printing but still offers good clarity and very good density of ink.
What if I think there is something wrong with the bags?
We will always discuss any issues in a thoroughly professional manner. If there is a genuine defect or fault in the manufacturing of the bags, or a printing error has occurred, we will endeavour to resolve the problem to your complete satisfaction. We want happy returning customers who enjoy the confidence of dealing with a professional company.
Is VAT applicable?
VAT is applicable on all orders we produce, except where the goods are ordered and delivered to a tax-free location. Prices shown are exclusive of VAT which will be charged at the prevailing rate. A VAT invoice is issued after completion of your delivery. If you are VAT exempt then please advise us of this at the time of order.