Guides

Printing guides

Practical, plain-language guides to paper weights, finishes, transfers, engraving, signage and ordering custom print.

Paper · 4 min

What GSM means, how 250, 350 and 600 gsm differ, and how to pick the right weight for visiting cards, tags and brochures.

Finishing · 4 min

UV coating and lamination both protect printed cards and brochures. Learn how they differ, and when to choose shine or matt.

Stationery · 4 min

What NCR (No Carbon Required) paper is, how duplicate and triplicate sets work, and when to use carbonless bill books and forms.

Paper · 3 min

Matt and art paper look and feel different. See how to choose between them for brochures, bill books and printed stationery.

Apparel · 5 min

A plain-language comparison of DTF (direct-to-film) and heat transfer printing, and how to choose the right method for garments and mugs.

Engraving · 4 min

How laser carving works on wood, what designs engrave best, and ideas for plaques, coasters, signs and gifts.

Engraving · 3 min

What metal etching is, why it is used for name plates and industrial tags, and how to prepare a design for etching.

Signage · 6 min

Front-lit vs back-lit signs, 3D letters, acrylic, panaflex grades, vinyl and one-vision glass film, and LED light boxes - how to choose.

Ordering · 4 min

What to send, how a quote works, and how international delivery of custom printed orders is arranged with 3M Packages.