Printing, paper and package design

Michelle · 02-04-2013, 11:36 PM

Hello,

I am new to the Graphic Design Forum and I am hoping someone will have some good advice for me.

I am currently working on some package designs and I would love to specify paper to my printer overseas. I would love to purchase paper and ship it to my printer so I know exactly what we will be getting but that is a costly solution. I would also love to know where to find paper samples with specs on it to send to my printer but I have been having trouble finding a paper company who makes heavy stocks or paper that is not in small sizes (16x20 etc.).

I need something heavier than 250 gm, more like a heavy card stock to ensure stability with the end product. It needs to be eco-friendly.

Any thoughts?

Thank you for your help!
Michelle

**PanToshi** · 02-04-2013, 11:56 PM

Hi Michelle and welcome to GDF!

We ask that all new members take a few minutes read through important threads here and here. These will explain our rules, answer frequently asked questions and explain some of the long running jokes you'll run into. Enjoy your stay.

PrintDriver · 02-05-2013, 11:33 AM

You need your overseas printer to send you samples of what they print on. A lot of places only work with limited stock. That's why they are so cheap. They are only set up and profiled to run on a few materials so they are constantly resetting the machinery. A custom job literally throws a wrench in the works.

If you want custom stock, your better bet is to work with a local converter.

Cosmo · 02-05-2013, 01:49 PM

Good luck finding an overseas printer who can meet those specs. As PD said, most of them only work with a couple stocks, and it's usually whatever they can get cheapest.

Finding heavy stocks in large sizes is not a problem. We regularly buy paper heavier than that in 26" x 40" sheets.

Michelle · 03-04-2013, 04:43 PM

So the printer my company is using only has specialty papers available. I do not know how to explain to this printer that a cover stock in kraft should be easy to come by and that they must be looking in the wrong places. I am getting a little frustrated with them because it has been a month since I requested paper samples and all they came back with were sparkly, expensive papers when all I am looking for is an unfinished cover stock! Any advice?

Cosmo · 03-04-2013, 05:10 PM

I bet I already know the answer to this, but do you have the option of using another printer? If so, I can recommend some.

If not, you may just have to deal with what they have.

Michelle · 03-04-2013, 05:14 PM

I don't think I really have a choice, as you know, the printer usually depends on the final cost therefore limiting the choices.
Regardless, I would love to have some printer recommendations!

**Virgo Nightingale** · 03-04-2013, 05:22 PM

If they're not able to provide you with what you need, then I think the choice is clear: another printer who can.

Cosmo · 03-04-2013, 05:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Virgo Nightingale

If they're not able to provide you with what you need, then I think the choice is clear: another printer who can.

My thoughts exactly. Seems like a waste of time and money to try to work with a printer who can't do what you want.

Michelle · 03-04-2013, 06:11 PM

I may have the opportunity to but I am new to this company and I am not 100% sure if that would fly. If you have any printer recommendations I would greatly appreciate the input.