FAQ - Our Printing Process

Does the ink smudge / run / smear?

We use a toner based printing process that once cured, is impervious to water.  However, the paper that the poster is printed on is not.  With that said, these posters are not for extended outdoor use, but can hold up to light weather conditions.

Are your posters glossy or matte?

Our posters come off our press with a matte finish.  If you need them to be glossy, you can add the lamination to achieve this effect.  

How can you sell posters so affordably?

Our philosophy for nearly 4 years has been simple: high quality posters sold at razor thin margins with large volumes overall.  We have invested greatly in our equipment to make sure we are on the cutting edge of techology.

What is your standard printing time?

Our standard is 5 business days.  If your order is received before 1 pm CST, then that day is considered "day 1" of production.  You can expedite the printing process by adding Express Service during checkout.  Please note, shipping time is separate and can also be expedited.

Can I have no logo printed on the back? What about nothing at all printed on the back?

You certainly can order posters without our small logo printed on the back (called "unbranded").  However, our process for posters smaller than 20 x 30 will always print a very small order number, file name and barcode on the back of each poster.  
Our 20 x 30 and 24 x 36 posters do not have any printing on the back.

Are you posters "Archival"?

We use acid free paper and a very lightfast and stable printing process using toner.  Our own tests indicate that even in direct sunlight, minimal fading to the colors were present, less than 5%.  This test placed a color chart in direct sunlight for a full calendar year.  So, by definition, we can assume that our posters are in fact archival.

What kind of ink do you use? How durable is it?

We utilize a toner based process.  The vibrant colored toner is "seared" into the paper itself in a very durable fashion.  We have tested its fade resistance for up to a year in direct sunlight with negligible fading (less than 5%).

What is the thickness and quality of the paper used?

For our posters smaller than 20 x 30, the paper is #80 coated cover stock.  For the layperson, this is considered a medium high thick poster paper (about the thickness of the outside cover paper of upscale magazines such as Vogue or National Geographic).  It is also an archival paper - which means exceptionally durable, acid free and long lasting.  The finish on the paper is a matte finish (no visible gloss).  Lamination can be added for the high gloss look and feel. 
For posters larger than 20 x 30, the paper is a 46# Bond matte paper.  This is also a heavier stock, similar to the description above (cover of Vogue or National Geographic magazine).  Paper is "uncoated", meaning it has no glossy surface finish.