Printing News

Invitation Card Sizes: Guide to Choosing The Right Invitation Size

Jun 21, 2022

Our lives are filled with events, from the annual to the once-in-a-lifetime. Naturally, we want to share these special moments with our loved ones, whether as a small intimate gathering or as a massive party, whatever your personal style is, it will shine through. From the moment your guests receive their invitation, it will set the tone for your event. A small wedding and a raucous child’s party are very different events, and need different invitation card sizes, to reflect the occasion. Obviously, there are no right or wrong sizes, and we can print whatever you wish for your function, but we can offer suggestions for what is generally considered to be a good size for each type of invitation.

Standard Invitation Size

We have put together a table that shows the different types, card sizes, and dimensions for each occasion. This will give you a guide to help you make the best decision for your forthcoming event.

Type	Format	Folded Card	Unfolded Card	Best For
Rectangle	A1/Baronial	3.5 x 4.88 in	7 x 4.88 in	Invitations, thank you cards, RSVP cards
	5 Baronial	4 x 5.25 in	8 x 5.25 in	Invitations, thank you cards, RSVP cards
	A2/5.5 Baronial	4.25 x 5.5 in	8.5 x 5.5 in	Invitations, thank you cards, RSVP cards
	A6/6 Baronial	4.5 x 6.25 in	9 x 6.25 in	Invitations, thank you cards, RSVP cards
	A7/Lee (Standard)	5.13 x 7 in	10.5 x 7 in	Greeting cards, invitations, thank you cards
	A8	5.38 x 7.88 in	10.63 x 7.88 in	Greeting cards, invitations, thank you cards
	A9	5.63 x 8.63 in	11.5 x 8.63 in	Greeting cards, invitations
	A10	5.88 x 9.25 in	11.75 x 9.25 in	Greeting cards, large invitations
Square	Small	5.5 x 5.5 in	5.5 x 11 in	Greeting cards, thank you cards, invitations
	Medium	6.25 x 12.5 in	6.25 x 12.5 in	Greeting cards, large invitations

Different Types of Invitation for Different Events

Weddings – wedding invitation cards look best on a large rectangular card such as 5.13″ x 7″ or a 5.88″ x 9.25″, which gives room to enclose information cards, and RSVPs
Birthday parties – birthdays may be a regular birthday, for which you could use a smaller rectangular or square card, 4″ x 5.25″, or a special birthday such as 50th or 21st. Special birthdays may be better on a larger card, 5.63″ x 8.63″, allowing room inside for RSVP cards or information cards.
Baby showers – another one-off special celebration, though these can often be small events, so depending on the scale of the event a large or small size baby shower invitation may be used. We generally suggest using a smaller rectangular card for a more intimate occasion, and a larger size for a bigger function.
Graduation parties – choose a rectangular or square card depending on the size of the party.
Anniversary parties – the importance and nature of the anniversary will dictate your choice. A large business anniversary may need an impressively large rectangular invite such as the 5.63″ x 8.63″ while a small paper wedding anniversary may be perfectly celebrated with a small invitation card like the 3.5″ x 4.88″.
Retirement parties – retirement can be a sensitive occasion both for the business and the individual, a discrete-sized invite such as the 4.5″ x 6.25″ is a popular choice.
Church confirmations – tend to be tasteful and reserved, a quiet celebration, go for a smaller rectangle around the 4″ x 5.25″ size.
Funerals – similar to church confirmations, funeral invitations are generally ideal as a smaller rectangle around the 4″ x 5.25″ size.
Special sales events – big and bold, and statement-making, will showcase your sales event. Why not go for the largest square size the 6.25″ x 6.25″.
Business conferences, seminars, and trade shows – know your audience. Often it is worth going big to catch people’s attention with the 5.88″ x 9.25″. But consider your customers and maybe consider a slightly more reserved 5.38″ x 7.88″.
VIP nights and open houses – go for large and impressive invitations that will make people take notice, such as the 6.25″ x 6.25″ or 5.88″ x 9.25″

Things to Consider for Creating Invitation Cards

There are many points to consider when creating the perfect invitation for your next event, but with us, we will work with you to achieve the right look for your occasion.

Budget

Budget will affect the size of your invitation cards, and those operating on a tighter budget may opt for smaller sizes for cost-efficiency.

Delivery

If you are planning your event well ahead of time, we can plan for whatever invitation sizes you require. If you are in a hurry and need a speedy delivery, we will always work with you to fulfil your delivery time, but it may be worth speaking to us to see if the invitation size will affect the delivery time.

Colour Schemes

Different colours work best on different-sized cards. If you are unsure of what the best size is for your colours, simply speak to our experienced team for advice.

Font

The font is very evocative. The font choice will set the tone for your event, from vintage to bubble, make sure your font matches the style of your event.

Size

Size isn’t a standalone decision. The balance of the overall invitation must be taken into consideration, the combination will work together to create the perfect invitation for you.

Composition

Let us work with you to assist you with composition to ensure that you end up with the perfect finished invitation.

Choosing The Right Card Size For Your Event

Work with the experienced team at SJ Print MK to ensure you can enjoy the perfect invitation to start your event off in the very best style. We will help you to consider all the factors to choose the best size invitation card for your next occasion.

Need Help with Printing Your Invitation?

We offer high-quality printing for all your printing needs, including invitation cards. To ensure that your event is showcased to the highest standard, make sure your invitation cards are printed by professionals of high quality. Speak to the experienced and knowledgeable team at SJ Print MK today.

Advantages of Digital Printing: Why Business Needs Digital Print

Dec 3, 2021

Digital print is now one of the most popular printing methods. It boasts a range of benefits and that’s why businesses are now choosing to use this form of printing. It makes it possible to print in a wide range of sizes and colours. It is a modern form of printing that prints from electronic files. This makes it possible to print onto a range of materials and it is an alternative to the likes of litho, gravure and letterpress. This form of printing removes a lot of the processes involved with conventional printing and that’s why the advantages of digital printing have to be understood.

How Does Digital Printing work?

Digital printing is a faster and more efficient way of printing and that is why it is now chosen over traditional printing. The method involves using digital files that are sent to the printer in a certain format such as PDF, TIFF and PSD. It is likely to be the right choice of printing if you are looking for a high level of detail and smaller quantity orders although it can be used to print in bulk. This technology does not include the same processes as traditional printing such as the pre-press stages and there are no photo chemicals involved either.

As the name suggests, digital printing involves using digital images that consist of high quality and these are then printed on a range of materials. So, digital printing will follow these steps:

The digital file will be prepared so that it is sharp and clean with a high enough resolution for the size of the required print.
There is also a need for crop marks and bleed which are added. Crop marks are lines that are added to the corner of the print job. After trimming the bleed, the crop marks make sure that there are no unprinted edges in the final trimmed document.
The next step is an imposition and this involves making sure that as much of the paper is used during the print as this will help to reduce waste and ensure that the job is more efficient.
Prior to being sent to the printer, the digital file will be converted into a different format which is known as taster image files or bitmaps.
The file is then sent to the printer where it is printed onto the chosen material.

Top Advantages of Digital Printing For Businesses

1. Personalised Print Jobs Are Possible

The technology involved in digital printing means that it’s possible to take advantage of personalised print jobs. This is perfect for any business that wants to create tailored prints for specific uses such as mail campaigns. This level of personalisation is possible as the images can be altered and customised before they are sent to the printer and that will result in a quality print that stands out.

2. Cost-effective

The lack of setup and the level of customisation makes this level of printing cost-effective. There is no lengthy preparation involved on the likes of printing plates or colour matching. Everything is handled in one single process and that means that there are few man-hours involved in digital printing. This is one of the biggest advantages of digital printing.

Digital printing also reduces waste and ensures that printing materials are maximised so more is used.

3. Timeliness

This technology is ideal for those who are looking to print to tight deadlines. A business might require a quick turnaround on printed materials such as retail display units. However, what this form of printing offers is speed. This is because other methods involve many different processes, all of which takes time. So, digital printing has very little setup and manual intervention. In some instances, it is possible to turn jobs around in a matter of days and even 24 hours. Once the image file has been edited, it can be sent directly to the printer which is one of the main advantages of digital.

4. High-Quality

When it comes to printing, quality is key because every business will want to display its message or logo on packaging or displays as clearly as possible. Fortunately, digital printing technology makes it possible to achieve high-quality printing that comes in vivid colours and gradation. It has the perfect registration of colours and it is the only form of printing that offers this. This means that colours are vibrant and crystal clear which makes it possible for every business to benefit. Furthermore, it is also possible to apply the likes of glossy finishes or embossed effects that give the design a unique finish.

5. Digital Printing Offers Versatility

The likes of indigo digital technology make it possible to print on thousands of certified substrates. This includes metallics, synthetics and darks. So, regardless of whether your needs are complex or simple, digital printing provides exceptional versatility that makes it suitable for a wide range of print jobs.

6. More Choices In Materials

Digital print is widely used on a range of items such as posters and even outdoor signage. This is made possible because of the way in which substrates don’t need to be held in place as firmly as other printing methods. Digital flatbed printers can print onto materials as thick as 50mm. This provides access to applications that other print processes cannot compete with. Essentially, you can print onto almost any material and that offers a high level of versatility.

7. More Choices When It Comes To Ink Colour

A huge range of colours is now being used from across the spectrum. Older methods were limited to certain colours but digital printing makes it possible to mix inks and with that comes a huge range of possibilities. This means that it’s possible to print almost any colour and with that comes plenty of choices!

Each print will be matched to the colours that you see on the screen. This offers an exceptional level of control over the final finish and ensures that the print accurately reflects the image.

8. Printing As And When You Need It

Not every business requires regular printing but digital printing makes it possible to print as and when you need it. You might want a one-off job or you might want to print in low qualities but whatever your needs, digital printing makes it possible. There is a lack of set up which speeds up the process and there is rarely a minimum number of prints required by printers. This means that you are not likely to be charged more for a couple of prints or a short print run.

How To Choose Professional Digital Printers?

There are several considerations to make when choosing a professional printing company. It’s important that you compare costs as this will enable you to find a company that fits your budget. Browse their range of digital printing services. However, there is more as you should ask to look at their work and the quality because paying less might mean that you compromise on quality. Customer service and support are also important because you want to choose a company that takes care of you and your needs. Finally, experience and knowledge go a long way when picking a digital printer as this will ensure that they clearly understand your needs and know how to deliver the printing that you require.

Different Types of Business Cards Printing

Jan 28, 2021

At SJ Print your local Milton Keynes printers, we specialise in Business Card printing and offer various different types of business card printing options for our customers. Whether you are looking for a folded business cards option to turn into an appointment card, a mini business card for your social media handles or something more traditional with the fundamental business details on then SJ Printing’s comprehensive range of business cards will satisfy any need you have. If you are unsure of what you require or what type of business card would be the right fit for you, don’t hesitate to ask. One of our approachable and helpful team would be glad to assist and discuss your options with you.

There are various types of business card printing available as follows:

1. Same Day Business Card Printing

Our same day luxury business card printing services are particularly handy if you have an event on or are just running low and looking to stock up in a hurry. Perfect for business trips, networking opportunities and to keep on your person just in case, these cards are worth their weight in gold for any business. Printed in full colour, on single or double-sided 350gsm ivory board these come with same day collection in Milton Keynes and guaranteed delivery within 48hrs if you are elsewhere. Orders are taken from a minimum of 50 cards, and orders must be received before 1pm for same day production, no matter which types of business cards you require.

2. Laminated / Foiled Finish

Laminated business cards starts from a minimum order of 100 all the way up to 1000 cards, you could have these matt, gloss or soft-touch within 5-7 days. Choose from single or double-sided and have them embossed with a choice of colours available to you. Printed in full colour, these cards have a duplex of up to 1200gsm and you will be thoroughly satisfied with the unique bespoke finish.

Available in silver, gold, rose gold, copper and more, we use only the best quality foils and paper to add an extra touch of class to your business cards. The first impression is often spoken of as so important; however, with these luxurious cards, it’s the lasting impression you will create for your potential business partners and customers who receive them from you.

3. Printed Thermographic

This cutting edge design creates a breath-taking 3D-Esque visual on your business cards. This stylish choice comes in a variety of colours, has double thickness duplex and is printed in full colour on both sides of the card. A choice of materials are available for your bespoke luxury card and it can all be turned around in just 5-7 days. These cards stand out and are no ordinary purchase providing you with instant impact on anyone they reach.

4. Letterpress

Achieve maximum effect on your target audience with the optimum classy finish of these letterpress business cards. With a vast range of material stock available and printed in spot colours on both sides of the card, these provide a dynamic edge to proceedings and certainly catch the eye. Orders from 100-1000 cards, the embossed letters provide subtle texture differentials and a unique outlook for this extraordinary type of card. These cards can be with you in 5-7 days and have a duplex between 600-1200gsm.

What Size Business Card?

Each customer will have different design requirements for their cards and we are appreciative of this by providing as many options in terms of style, feel and finish as we can at SJ Printing. Depending on the information you want to feature, your business card specifications will vary greatly to other companies. To find the right fit for you and the ideal card selection for your business marketing, see our selection of sizes below;

Standard/Premier/Recycled/Metallic/Kraft/Loyalty Card

Dimensions: 85mm x 55mm

Square Design

Dimensions: 55mm x 55mm

Mini Design

Dimensions: 25mm x 85mm

Folded Business Cards

Dimensions: short edge 170mm x 55mm, or long edge 110mm x 85mm

Why SJ Print MK For Unique Business Cards?

No matter if it’s single or double-sided, embossed, standard or mini, we strive for excellence and to provide customer satisfaction on every job. We are here to assist with great experience and expert opinion from within the industry. Our staff have been hands-on in this sector for many years and built up specialist skills and operative knowledge that can take your business card functionality to the next level and make it a powerful marketing tool within itself. All it takes is the right touch and we can provide that for you. Our work is credible and authentic, we have worked hard to build a reputable and established brand and it would be our pleasure to take on your next project and enhance your business credentials together.

For business card prices and orders please contact the contact form on our business cards page, or call us on 01908 508524.

Different Types of Printing

Jan 28, 2021

Common printing terms such as digital printing, screen printing, laser printing etc. are familiar to many people without actually knowing what they mean or involve. There are many different types of printing and functions, each with their own intricacies and specific purpose. Digital Printing is an example, a professional print companies use to mass produce marketing materials including business cards, wedding stationery, business stationery, funeral stationery, booklets or leaflets, using a variety of heavy-duty printing machines.

The Different Types Of Printing Services

Letterpress Printing

This is a technique of relief printing where multiple copies are produced. The process involves repeated direct impression of an inked, raised surface against continuous rolls or sheets of paper. The impression is created when the ink from the type is transferred and pressed into the paper after being firstly composed then locked into the bed/chase of a press.

The finished product will depend on the variety of printed matter that is produced but the completed sheets are taken to dry before finishing. For example, sheets for books are sent for bookbinding whereas newspapers are taken to a folding machine.

Lithographic Printing

Lithography uses the immiscible features of water and grease in a planographic printing process. The lithographic process differs for commercial printing (using a metal plate typically 0.30mm thick) or fine art-making (special press) where the flat printing surface holds a grease-treated image and has ink applied to it. Moisture is held within the blank areas which repel the lithographic ink.

Modern rotary offset pressing can produce high-quality lithographic printing at high speed resulting in finely detailed impressions. It is by far the leading publishing, printing and packaging process carried out today and can reproduce any material in the plate making process that can be photographed.

Hot Foiling

Hot foil printing is a straightforward mix of three key components; heat, pressure and the correct foil for the task at hand. Getting any of these elements wrong, will result in a poor low-quality print and a disappointing finish. Without realising, most people are in contact with hot foil every day. The leaflets advertising this, that and the other posted through your door, the hairbrush you used this morning, basic packaging and the covers of all your favourite glossy magazines all have encompassed hot foiling.

The process begins when a hot foil die is attached to the machine and warmed. The foil is then placed between the die and the substrate ready to be printed. Finally, with the application of pressure by pulling the handle of the machine to bring the two briefly together to adhere the foil to the substrate, you reach completion. The foil has an adhesive on the back as an extra measure which is activated by the heat to form a permanent bond to the substrate.

Embossing

Techniques that result in a raised design on a surface can be described using the term, embossing. These are effective design features that are often created in a subtle form by paper crafters who use different techniques to achieve this effect on cardstock or paper.

Whichever technique is used, the embossed effect is relatively easy to achieve and is becoming increasingly popular. The end design can be significantly emphasised and advanced if desired by rubbing colourants like chalk or ink into the surface.

Modern Digital Print

Despite offset printing still producing results in marginally improved prints, digital methods are being transformed at an alarming rate to improve quality and reduce costs.

State of the art printing methods such as laser and ink-jet printing are known as digital printing. Digital printing consists of an image being sent directly to the printer using digital files such as PDFs and those from various graphics software leaders. This eliminates the need for printing plates, commonly used in offset printing, which can save both finances and precious time.

Final Printing Thoughts

To achieve any level of printing and make it unique to its counterparts it needs to contain productively differential features that set it apart. The end result is often very specific with individualistic specifications which we have explored in detail with the various different types in the above article.

At SJ Print we offer each of the above different printing types of printing to produce high-quality products for our customers, such as Business Cards & Stationery, Wedding Stationery, plus Christening & Funeral Stationery products. Check out our new post about the advantages of digital printing too! For more details, please contact us on 01908 508524.

New Style on Business Cards

Nov 30, 2017

Here’s our new style luxury business card. Soft touch laminate, Silver foil and duplexed for an extra thick card.