Comics Features

Advantages of Having Your Comic Book Printed Online

Getting your comic book professionally printed on time can often be stressful, especially if you need to have them printed in bulk. Thanks to the recent advancements in technology, a lot of printing companies have migrated their services online, allowing comic book artists to have their files printed whenever and wherever they may be.

Online printing has seen an increase in demand over the past couple of years. This is primarily because the process has become much easier and more convenient especially to those who are part of the creative industry. From comic books to graphic novels, online printing also allows you to have full creative control over how you want your files to be printed.

How Does Online Printing Work?

Online printing companies enable you to upload and print comic book files through their website. You just go to their website, select your printing preferences, upload your files, settle your payment, and wait for your final output to be delivered. It’s as simple as that.

Comic Book Printing Preferences

Prior to placing your order, you have to be clear about your requirements in printing. You have to be specific on what paper finishes and weights to use on your comic book, what size, colours, and whether you’ll have it offset printed or digitally printed. Since everything is done remotely, it’s important that everything is clear from the very start to avoid the risk of repeating the entire process.

Types of Paper Finishes

Glossy features a highly reflective coating. This kind of finish is good for comic book and graphic novel covers. Glossy papers reduce ink absorption, giving the printed output an excellent color definition.

Semi-gloss has also some sheen to it, but not as much as high gloss finishes. This includes satin and pearl finishes, which are also commonly used in comic book covers. Just like glossy papers, colors also look sharp and vivid in papers with a semi-gloss finish.

Matte is one of the most popular finishes used in commercial printing. It is made from hot-pressed fiber and does not contain a glossy coat. It does come in a variety of textures and is the most common choice for the inner pages of comic books.

Guide to Paper Weights

  • 35-55 gsm feels similar to most broadsheets
  • 90 gsm feels similar to an inner page of a magazine
  • 140-250 gsm feels similar to a poster
  • 180-250 gsm feels similar to a magazine cover
  • 350 gsm feels similar to a business card

Offset Printing vs. Digital Printing

Offset printing is the most common option for high-volume printing jobs. Its quality is superior and can be used on a wide variety of materials. It’s practically the best option to print just about anything in bulk. Offset printing works by transferring ink from a plate to a rubber sheet, which then rolls the ink onto the paper.

Digital printing on the other hand does not involve proofs, plates, and rubber beds. This printing technique applies the design directly to the paper, just like the printers that we have at home. Digital printing is usually used in low volume jobs and it boasts a faster turnaround time as compared to offset printing.

Generally speaking, offset printing yields higher quality printouts. However, with an untrained eye, they may just both appear the same. Ultimately, the difference between the two all boils down to your budget and volume requirement.

Product Delivery

Some online printing companies allow you to set the print and delivery date, giving you better control over your order. Having this option makes it even more convenient especially if you find yourself working with time sensitive projects.

Finding an Online Printing Company

Before settling with any online printing company, make sure to check for reviews online to find out exactly what kind of reputation they have. It’s also important to understand all their terms before sealing the deal. While many companies offer guarantees, you also have to know what to expect once things don’t go well as expected.

Online printing services have come a long way over the recent years. Advancements in technology have definitely made printing comic books a snap. Truly, it is one of the most helpful innovations in the publishing industry today.

About the author

Adam Smith