We Can Help You With:

Short Run Magazine Printing

When people speak of short run magazine printing, they are typically talking in terms of the production of fewer than about 500 magazines. Many magazines today are geographically targeted, which means that some of the content may differ depending upon where the end user resides. A fishing magazine for Michigan anglers is going to have quite different information and advertisers than one destined for Florida.

Short Run Magazine Printing Benefits

In the past, companies that developed magazines with limited circulation could not vary the content, since the costs associated with offset printing setup and production would have made it prohibitively expensive. Today, short run magazine printing enables the producer to offer content and ads that are regionally and locally specific. This works to the advantage of both the consumer and advertiser.

Additional advantages of API Print Productions short run printing include:

  • Adding to or subtracting from recurring orders due to subscription changes is simple and will generally not affect per copy pricing.
  • We can print and mail any magazine to any destination, saving time and money.
  • Shrink-wrapping services are also available.

Short Run Magazine Binding Options

There are two choices for binding for short run magazine printing. Saddle stitching refers to printing double sized pages, folding them in half, and stapling them down the middle. Then, the spine is compressed and the face edge is trimmed resulting in square edges on the three that open. Saddle stitching is the primary style for magazines from 8 to approximately 64 pages and must have 4 page increments.

The alternative is termed Perfect Binding and is commonly used for magazines that exceed 40pages. Similar to a paperback book, the bound edge is compressed, trimmed square, and glued. The spine can also have exterior printing. Perfect Binding only requires 2 page increments.

Additional Services

Many of our customers count on API Print Productions to provide more than just short run magazine printing services. They count on us for every step of the process. For those who have no idea how to begin, we provide free consultation to take your short run print project from idea to literally putting a perfect product into the hands of your customers.

Some of the additional services we provide include:

  • Content and image creation
  • Design and layout
  • Warehousing
  • Distribution and mailing
  • Fulfillment

How to Get Started with Short Run Magazine Printing

Individuals and companies who are interested in publishing a magazine should begin by contacting an API Print Productions consultant. We will present you with all of the options and make some recommendations on the best and most cost effective paper, processing, binding, distribution choices, and more. From there, we will generate a quote that we guarantee will be the lowest you will find anywhere. Short Run Catalog Printing

Short run catalog printing refers to the digital production of about 500 catalogs or fewer. Beyond that quantity, it usually makes more sense economically to transition to long run or offset printing. On the other hand, if quick turnaround time is important to you, digital may be the way to go regardless of the size of the order.

With short run catalog printing, we use content obtained via computer directly from you to avoid the setup expenses and time associated with traditional offset ink-on-paper options. Your catalog will:

  1. Look virtually identical to offset printed alternatives, using the same paper and content
  2. Display clear, sharp images and text
  3. Be available for your use within 48 hours of our receiving your approved draft
  4. Be sized and bound according to your exact specifications

Isn’t this the Same as a Copy from a Copy Shop?

The answer is an emphatic NO! Copies will lose a considerable amount of quality and definition regardless of the quality of the printing device. With digital printing, the source is a high-resolution computer-generated original, not one transferred from an existing piece of paper.

Short Run Catalog Printing Basics

Catalogs have always been a department store standard, but you can easily use them for your business, too. You may want to highlight seasonal inventory and specials on a quarterly basis. Some customers prefer to provide some editorial content, creating more of a magazine/catalog hybrid. The options are limitless!

You can build your own catalog or booklet in two standard sizes including the handy 5½ by 8½size, the traditional 8½ by 11 catalog, or provide us with your custom specifications.

It’s easy to use custom catalog printing sizes, layouts, and papers, as well as custom finishing to create distinctive designs and shapes. Rounded corners are no problem. UV coating is optional and easily applied. Many of our customers prefer a heavier cover than the interior pages. There are also embossing and foil stamping options to consider. Anything imaginable we will be happy to create.

Other Short Run Printing Products

You can save both time and money by using short run printing for other print work, including:

  • Brochures
  • Flyers
  • Booklets
  • Magazines
  • Training materials
  • Calendars

Most companies and entrepreneurs find that the cost/benefit ratio is highest for just about any project that will entail fewer than 500 pieces regardless of style.

How to Get Started with Short Run Catalog Printing

The process is easy. Just contact us to set up an introductory phone call. An API Print Productions professional will discuss the options with you and provide you with a quote.

LET'S GET IN TOUCH

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT
WE WANT TO HELP MAKE IT A REALITY!