# The Latest Print and Design News | Solopress

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## Posts

- [Solopress X Carrot Productions: all round great performance](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/solopress-x-carrot-productions-all-round-great-performance/): Solopress designed and printed a souvenir programme for Carrot Productions’ The Snowman with Live Orchestra, including an activity booklet.
- [Solopress X Lazydays Festival 2025: effective event print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/solopress-x-lazydays-festival-2025-effective-event-print/): Solopress is supporting Lazydays Festival 2025 with top-tier print. Discover the line-up and how print helps brings the event to life.
- [New Blood: supporting South Essex College at the D&AD Awards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/new-blood-supporting-south-essex-college-at-the-add-awards/): Solopress supported South Essex College students exhibiting at the D&AD New Blood Awards with Signage, Postcards and Folders.
- [Dave Day 2025: how print helped unite the route](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/on-the-road-with-dave-day-2025-how-print-helped-unite-the-route/): There are some people whose presence feels larger than life, not just because of what they do, but how they...
- [Indie Cult Club shine on with new merch](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/indie-cult-club-shine-on-with-new-merch/): How Solopress print, from gig tickets to Shiny Stickers, helped Indie Cult Club shape the look and feel of their Southend music night.
- [Printed Gazebos for events: what to consider when choosing yours](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-gazebos-for-events-what-to-consider-when-choosing-yours/): Printed gazebos offer branded shelter for events, stalls and festivals. Explore your options and find the right setup for your business.
- [Solopress supports Waddle-On-Sea and Havens Hospices](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-waddle-on-sea-and-havens-hospices/): Solopress will be sponsoring a unique penguin sculpture as part of Waddle-On-Sea, the public art trail raising funds for Havens Hospices.
- [Solopress supports Race4Business 2025 in aid of Havens Hospices](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-race4business-2025-in-aid-of-havens-hospices/): Solopress is proud to support Havens Hospices as a sponsor of Race4Business 2025, a charity fun run in aid of local palliative care.
- [Solopress welcomes Graphic Design students University Centre South Essex](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-welcomes-graphic-design-students-university-centre-south-essex/): We opened our doors to Graphic Design students from University Centre South Essex, offering them insights into how ideas transform into print.
- [Meet the Large Format Team: the people and the presses behind the big stuff!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/meet-the-large-format-team-the-people-and-the-presses-behind-the-big-stuff/): We turn the spotlight Large Format: the people, equipment and processes involved in delivering some of our most visible work.
- [Fast responders: Essex & Herts Air Ambulance places first ever Shiny Stickers order](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/fast-responders-essex-herts-air-ambulance-places-first-ever-shiny-stickers-order/): Essex & Herts Air Ambulance runs a rapid-response service so it's fitting that they were first off the mark to order our new Shiny Stickers
- [The Allure of Shiny Stickers: How Metallic Stickers Can Transform Your Brand ](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-allure-of-shiny-stickers-how-metallic-stickers-can-transform-your-brand/): We look at how shiny stickers can transform your brand, exploring their versatility, aesthetic appeal, and the unique advantages.
- [The Ultimate Guide to Promotional Prints: Caps and Hats](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-promotional-prints-caps-and-hats/): Promotional prints on caps and hats are a powerful way to boost. Join us as we explore how they can elevate your presence.
- [Meet the Dispatch Team: the people behind every fast turnaround](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/meet-the-dispatch-team-the-people-behind-every-fast-turnaround/): The Solopress on-time dispatch rate sets a standard few can match. We shine a light on some of the unsung heroes behind our delivery promise.
- [Stanley Cups explained: the trending tumbler that's full of surprises](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/stanley-cups-explained-the-trending-tumbler-thats-full-of-surprises/): Stanley cups have become a social media sensation. We follow its journey from practical to viral to contemporary classic
- [The Ultimate Guide to Promotional Prints: Why Tote Bags Are Your Best Bet](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-ultimate-guide-to-promotional-prints-why-tote-bags-are-your-best-bet/): Printed Tote Bags are a standout solution that assists you in helping your customer, your business and the environment.
- [Printed Packaging - a beginner's guide to Pouch Packaging](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-packaging-a-beginners-guide-to-pouch-packaging/): We go through all the ins and outs of Pouch Packaging and what you need to consider if you're thinking of using this versatile solution.
- [Printed Packaging - Labels: a beginner's guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-packaging-labels-a-beginners-guide/): Stickers and labels are a great way to transform generic packaging, securely seal products, add crucial info and enhance brand appeal
- [Bold moves and fine lines: how fonts influence brand identity](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-fonts-shape-a-brand/): Explore how fonts influence branding, perception and accessibility We look at how global brands use typefaces and how they evolve over time.
- [Unexpected exhibition print: ideas to help you stand out at events](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/unexpected-exhibition-print-ideas-to-help-you-stand-out-at-events/): Beyond Display Stands, Bags and Pens there’s a world of unexpected printed items that can capture attention and boost your brand at events
- [Print X Digital: Mastering Multichannel Marketing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/print-x-digital-mastering-multichannel-marketing/): Discover how a mixed media approach harnesses the strengths of both digital and print marketing to drive engagement and growth.
- [Customer Stories: Charity Mugs for Lady McAdden](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-charity-mugs-for-lady-mcadden/): The Solopress Design Service teamed up with Lady McAdden to create a set of inspiring charity mugs to celebrate International Women's Day
- [Mastering Your Event: The Power of Show Guides](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/mastering-your-event-the-power-of-show-guides/): Saddle stitched Show Guides are indispensable tools in the realm of conferences and exhibitions where effective communication is key.
- [The 'Create Quote' button: securing print quotes for 30 days](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-create-quote-button-securing-print-quotes-for-30-days/): Save print quotes to your account and lock in prices for 30 days, giving you more time to plan, compare and get approvals.
- [The Ultimate Guide to Creating Impactful Roller Banners for Conferences](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-creating-impactful-roller-banners-for-conferences/): Learn how to design, buy and display Roller Banners for a versatile and impactful way to display your message at conferences and exhibitions
- [The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Flags for Conferences and Exhibitions](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-ultimate-guide-to-choosing-the-perfect-flags-for-conferences-and-exhibitions/): Discover how to select the best Printed Flags for conferences and exhibitions, and how they can enhance visibility and impact.
- [Espresso Yourself: The UK’s Most Loved Coffee Shops](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/espresso-yourself-the-uks-most-loved-coffee-shops/): The UK’s most popular coffee shops, ranked by search trends and social media buzz. Explore what makes them stand out and how print can help.
- [The best UK cities for business start-ups in 2025](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-uk-cities-for-business-start-ups-in-2025/): Discover the best UK cities for business start-ups in 2025 based on survival rate, local economy, recruitment potential and overheads.
- [AI [Re]Generated Logos: What AI Can Teach Us About Branding](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/ai-regenerated-logos-what-ai-can-teach-us-about-branding/): Explore how AI reimagines iconic logos, the psychology behind great design, and discover why human creativity remains vital for brands
- [The UK’s must-see Christmas markets for 2024: a social media phenomenon](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/the-uks-must-see-christmas-markets-for-2024-a-social-media-phenomenon/): Using engagement data from platforms like Instagram and TikTok, we’ve ranked over 60 of the best Christmas markets in the UK and Europe
- [A guide to choosing the perfect Christmas corporate card](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/a-guide-to-choosing-the-perfect-christmas-corporate-card/): Choosing the perfect Christmas card for your business can be daunting. In this guide, we explore practical tips to help you get it right.
- [Customer Stories: Stickers for Wilma’s Bakery](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/wilmas-bakery-stickers/): Stickers on Rolls from Solopress provided Wilma’s Bakery with a unique branding solution to match their exquisite cakes.
- [The ultimate guide to printing Christmas Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/the-ultimate-guide-to-printing-christmas-cards/): Whether you’re looking to resell cards or send seasonal wishes to clients and colleagues, printed Christmas Cards offer a unique opportunity.
- [Customer Stories: Pauline Quirke Academy & TEMPLESPA join Brand Central](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-pauline-quirke-academy-templespa-join-brand-central/): Brand Central simplifies print management, saves time and money, and ensures a consistent branding for Pauline Quirke Academy and TEMPLESPA
- [Customer Stories: View Garden Centre's Christmas Market](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/view-garden-centres-christmas-market/): When View Garden Centre decided to host a Christmas Market with a Scandi twist, Solopress was there to get help create memorable display
- [Customer Stories: Katie Hurley at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-katie-hurley-at-the-edinburgh-fringe-festival/): Solopress helped comedian Katie Hurley to find success at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival thanks to some creative promotional solutions
- [£3.4m in fresh investment to enhance our print capabilities](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/3-4m-in-fresh-investment-to-enhance-our-print-capabilities/): We recently invested £3.4m in our plant list in order to boost our digital, litho and finishing capabilities
- [How the 2024 Election handed Solopress the mandate to print your Flyers and Leaflets](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/how-the-2024-election-handed-solopress-the-mandate-to-print-your-flyers-and-leaflets/): In the run-up to the 2024 UK General Election, the demand for print was at an all-time high. Solopress met the challenge head-on.
- [Pouch Packaging: our appetising coffee collaboration](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/pouch-packaging-our-appetising-coffee-collaboration/): Check out Solopress's collaboration with Little Fin Roastery and learn how Pouch Packaging enhances product appeal and preservation.
- [Summer Success: your guide to hosting outdoor events](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/summer-success-your-guide-to-hosting-outdoor-events/): Solopress is here to support your outdoor event this summer with our comprehensive expert guide and essential outdoor print.
- [Free Euro 2024 Wall Chart](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/free-euro-2024-wall-chart/): Get your free Euro 2024 Wall Chart to guarantee you don’t miss a minute of this summers festival of football.
- [Solopress offset 200,000 kg of CO2](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/solopress-offset-200000-kg-of-co2/): Solopress are proud to have offset over 200,000 kilograms of CO2, a significant milestone in continuing our environmental goals. Achieving...
- [The Greenest Cities In The UK](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/the-greenest-cities-in-the-uk/): As the internet expands and continents connect, the global population is becoming increasingly aware of the potential dangers that a...
- [Customer Stories: Dahlia Beach](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-dahlia-beach/): When Andrea McDowell started up award-winning tuber supplier and PYO flower farm, Dahlia Beach, print from Solopress helped spread the word
- [Top tips on how to create artist Business Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/top-tips-on-how-to-create-artist-business-cards/): Say hello to artist business cards – miniature canvases that do much more than just share your contact information.
- [The most popular restaurants in the UK and rest of the world](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-most-popular-restaurants-in-the-uk-and-rest-of-the-world/): Read about the top 10 most social media-friendly restaurants in London, the UK, rooftop UK bars and around the world.
- [Solopress win Company of the Year at The Printweek Awards 2024!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-win-company-of-the-year-at-the-printweek-awards-2024/): Solopress are proud to announce we have been named Company of the Year at the prestigious Printweek Awards 2024.
- [How to create QR code Business Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-create-qr-code-business-cards/): QR code technology has been used across point-of-sale material and display ads for some time, so why not try QR code business cards?
- [Customer Stories: The Little Library at Coram's Fields](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-the-little-library-at-corams-fields/): Learn how the Little Library at Coram's Fields, came to life thanks to a bright idea, a lot of community spirit & some print from Solopress
- [The importance of photography Business Cards for your brand](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-importance-of-photography-business-cards-for-your-brand/): Learn why photography Business Cards are essential for your brand, the benefits of having them, and design tips to stand out from the crowd.
- [Business Cards for Etsy sellers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-cards-for-etsy-sellers/): Learn the importance of Business Cards for Etsy sellers and the benefits this can have on your shop and overall branding.
- [The best cities for introverts](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-cities-for-introverts/): We researched the best and worst cities for introverts to work and live in both the United Kingdom and around the world.
- ["Well, you're the designer", a graphic design podcast from Solopress](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/well-youre-the-designer-a-graphic-design-podcast-from-solopress/): “Well, you’re the designer” is the design podcast from Solopress, where we discuss the challenges faced by commercial graphic designers.
- [Free UK Marketing Calendar 2025](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/free-uk-marketing-calendar-2025/): Get your marketing calendar 2024 to keep you organised throughout the year so you can plan, prepare and produce all your campaigns on time.
- [Exploring Europe's part-time paradises: unveiling the best cities for flexible work](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/exploring-europes-part-time-paradises-unveiling-the-best-cities-for-flexible-work/): We uncover the best European cities for part-time workers based on job availability, salaries, and the cost of utilities transport and rent.
- [Adobe InDesign tutorial: paragraph styles & text wrap](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/adobe-indesign-tutorial-paragraph-styles-text-wrap/): This Adobe InDesign tutorial takes you through paragraph styles, text wrapping images and how to effectively use quotes.
- [It wouldn't be Christmas without Cards!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/it-wouldnt-be-christmas-without-cards/): Southend United Football Club and Solopress crafted a seasonal surprise for all season ticket holders with a personal Christmas Card.
- [The world’s oldest football programme](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-worlds-oldest-football-programme/): The world's oldest football programme turned 150-years-old. We tell the story behind the game that was historical for more than one reason!
- [Adobe InDesign tutorial: Image grids & character styles](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/adobe-indesign-tutorial-image-grids-character-styles/): This InDesign tutorial shows you how to use image grids and character styles to save time and improve consistency when designing for print.
- [Exhibit like an Expert: Venue insights from Exhibition Centre Liverpool](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/exhibit-like-an-expert-venue-insights-from-exhibition-centre-liverpool/): For a venue's perspective on exhibiting at shows and events, we spoke with Brian Charity, from Exhibition Centre Liverpool.
- [Solopress launches new Charity Partnerships initiative](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-launches-new-charity-partnerships-initiative/): Thanks to Solopress Charity Partnerships, UK charities will not only shop VAT-free, but will also save 10% on all orders at solopress.com.
- [Exhibit like an expert: the organiser’s perspective](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/exhibit-like-an-expert-the-organisers-perspective/): Experts responsible for highly successful UK trade shows give us their fresh perspective and valuable insights on the art of exhibiting.
- [Setting up a print-ready document in InDesign](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/setting-up-a-print-ready-document-in-indesign/): In this video guide, Graphic Designer Oscar Jackson creates a football programme in order to show you how to set up a document in InDesign.
- [Exhibit like an expert: creating an exhibition stand and strategy](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/creating-an-exhibition-stand-and-strategy/): We spoke with Solopress’ Head of Marketing, Glen Eckett, who oversaw our exhibition stand and strategy at The Print Show 2023.
- [Tickets: memorabilia that's worth more than face value](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/tickets-memorabilia-thats-worth-more-than-face-value/): As a pair of tickets from the night Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford's Theatre fetch £215,453. we look at tickets as memorabilia
- [Exhibit like an expert: working with an exhibition agency](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/working-with-an-exhibition-agency/): Attending your first exhibition can be daunting. An exhibition agency can help alleviate some of the stress you may experience.
- [What is a print API? How Soloflo can help businesses who sell print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/what-is-a-print-api-how-soloflo-can-help-businesses-who-sell-print/): Learn how APIs facilitate print sourcing and reselling. Discover Soloflo, Solopress's new API, and its benefits for operational efficiency
- [Exhibit like an expert: 6 tips for exhibition materials at your event](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/6-tips-for-exhibition-materials-at-your-event/): We spoke to seasoned exhibitioners to pass on their experiences and advice to help you with your exhibition materials at your next event.
- [The biggest barriers to entrepreneurship](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/the-biggest-barriers-to-entrepreneurship/): Solopress surveyed 2,000 British people to uncover their dreams, despairs and biggest barriers to entrepreneurship.
- [How to get support as a charity](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/how-to-get-support-as-a-charity/): Two charity veterans discuss how you can get charity support, with topics ranging from getting volunteers to choosing your trustee board.
- [Music artists with the most valuable merchandise](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/music-artists-with-the-most-valuable-merchandise/): With merch becoming an increasingly important revenue stream for music artists, we discover the top 30 artists with the most prized products
- [Exclusive Interview with Marvel Comic Artist Kev F Sutherland](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/exclusive-interview-with-marvel-comic-artist-kev-f-sutherland/): He's written, drawn & edited comics from The Beano to Viz, Doctor Stange to 2000AD. We spoke to Kev about his career & new graphic novels
- [Exhibit like an expert: trade show tips and tricks](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/trade-show-tips-and-tricks/): In this video, we ask exhibitors & attendees at the Milton Keynes Your Business Expo, for trade show tips to improve your exhibiting skills.
- [The best global cities for networking](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-global-cities-for-networking/): We collected stats on networking culture in major cities across the globe to create a unique index that ranks them from best to worst.
- [How to start a fundraiser](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/how-to-start-a-fundraiser/): We spoke to veterans of the charity sector who discussed in detail their top 12 tips when starting out fundraising for your charity.
- [A local charity's guide to fundraising](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/a-local-charitys-guide-to-fundraising/): This guide informs local charities the best ways to raise funds and awareness, with input from two experienced local charity's.
- [Promoting a show at the Edinburgh Fringe](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/promoting-a-show-at-the-edinburgh-fringe/): We spoke to Californian stand-up and 7-time Edinburgh Fringe veteran Sameer Katz, about the role Flyers and Posters play in promoting a show.
- [Solopress supports Herd In The City!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-herd-in-the-city/): Herd In The City is the sculpture art trail taking over Southend-On-Sea this summer and Solopress is proud to support the fun! 
- [Customer Stories: Solopress Design serves Chris a winner!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-solopress-design-serves-chris-a-winner/): Solopress Design has five tiers of support to get your artwork print ready. If you need help with your design, fill out our online form.
- [Solopress advocates for the future of the UK print industry at 10 Downing Street](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/solopress-advocates-for-the-future-of-the-uk-print-industry-at-10-downing-street/): Solopress’ Managing Director, Simon Cooper, visited 10 Downing Street to advocate the vast potential of the print industry.
- [Carbon offset your print with Solopress](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/carbon-offset-your-print-with-solopress/): Solopress introduces carbon offsetting for select products, enabling customers to order carbon-neutral prints. A significant stride in sustainability.
- [Exhibit like an expert: 7 tips to engage and impress at trade shows](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/7-tips-to-engage-and-impress-at-trade-shows/): The way we conduct ourselves at trade shows can have a profound effect on our success. Here are 7 tips to optimise your presence on the day.
- [Free 2023 Women's World Cup wall chart](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/free-2023-womens-world-cup-wall-chart/): Download our free 2023 Women's World Cup wall chart artwork and follow the tournament taking place in Australia and New Zealand.
- [Solopress supports Morph’s Epic Art Adventure!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-morphs-epic-art-adventure/): Morph’s epic art adventure is taking over the streets of central London this summer and Solopress are proud to sponsor the fun!
- [Revealed: the best cities for eco-conscious businesses](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/revealing-the-best-cities-for-eco-conscious-businesses/): Which cities across the world are the best for eco-conscious businesses? We embarked on research to identify best performing eco-cities.
- [Creating an augmented reality poster](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/creating-an-augmented-reality-poster/): Read and watch how our graphic designers created an augmented reality poster and follow the process they used on Adobe Aero.
- [The Endometriosis Foundation at The Fertility Show](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/the-endometriosis-foundation-at-the-fertility-show/): The Endometriosis Foundation recently attended its first exhibition and we caught up with them to see what they learned from the experience.
- [A new addition: the AGFA Oberon RTR3300](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/a-new-addition-the-agfa-oberon-rtr3300/): We’re delighted to announce the addition of the Agfa Oberon RTR3300, a dedicated roll-to-roll, digital inkjet printer.
- [Legibility unleashed: Easiest fonts to read](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/legibility-unleashed-easiest-fonts-to-read/): Readability is key! Check out our collection of the easiest fonts to read and follow our tips to make reading a breeze!
- [Exhibit like an expert: preparing for a trade show](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/preparing-for-a-trade-show/): Whether it's your first time or your fiftieth, preparing for a trade show gives you the best chance to achieve your exhibition goals
- [The essential guide to naming a company](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-essential-guide-to-naming-a-company/): Need help naming your business? Our Essential Guide provides creative tips and insider advice to make the process easier and ensure success.
- [Psychology Behind the Logos of the World](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/psychology-behind-the-logos-of-the-world/): We analysed the most famous brand logos of the world to reveal the most popular colours within the biggest industries.
- [FA Cup final programme designs through the years](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/fa-cup-final-programme-designs-through-the-years/): Football memorabilia is a key component to it's success, with the first matchday FA Cup final programme dating back to 1882.
- [Latham Street goes to print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/latham-street-goes-to-print/): Fashion label Latham Street's branding is so popular that they’ve opted to create merchandise products printed with their distinctive logo.
- [Your ultimate guide to Brochure design](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/your-ultimate-guide-to-brochure-design/): Brochure design is a powerful marketing tool. We spoke to our expert, Tim Hann, who's tips will help you create the best Brochure possible. 
- [The Best Cities for Creative Digital Nomads](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-cities-for-creative-digital-nomads/): The creative workforce is on the move. We investigate which cities are the best in the world for digital nomads.
- [Customer Stories: Star Wars Toys Mini-Guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/star-wars-toys-mini-guide/): To mark Star Wars day, we spoke to Gianni Venturini, co-author of “Star Wars Mini-Guide: Identify Your Kenner Card Back Reverses”
- [Bionic reading: Making readable designs](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/bionic-reading-making-readable-designs/): Bionic reading is a method of formatting your text which makes your design easier and more accessible to read. 
- [Setting up a charity](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/setting-up-a-charity/): Setting up a charity can be daunting if it’s your first time. Here, we’ve broken down the key stages you need to follow.
- [Exhibit like an expert: shell schemes and small spaces](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/shell-schemes-and-small-spaces/): When you start to exhibit at trade shows, you may find yourself with a small pitch or a shell scheme. Here's how to make them work for you.
- [Exhibit like an expert: 5 tips for bespoke trade show stands](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/5-tips-for-bespoke-trade-show-stands/): Industry expert Andy Hickinbotham sets out 5 areas your should focus on when creating a large-scale exhibition presence.
- [How to create a stunning Book cover design](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-create-a-stunning-book-cover-design/): A stunning Book cover design that’s impossible to ignore is the best marketing tool any author can have to sell their story.
- [Care home marketing tips](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/care-home-marketing-tips/): Care home marketing has become increasingly important in today's ageing society. This blog explores key strategies for care homes to use.
- [Messi, Maradona and the world's most expensive football stickers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/messi-maradona-and-the-worlds-most-expensive-football-stickers/): Our pick of the most valuable football stickers of all time, including Lionel Messi's 2014 World Cup sticker that has sold for £115,000.
- [How to design custom T-Shirts](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-design-custom-t-shirts/): Custom T-Shirts create a strong sense of community among your employees and customers through a cost-effective, durable product.
- [Choosing logos and brand colours for a start-up business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/choosing-logos-and-brand-colours/): In this blog, we look at how Cookies and Cones, Create 98 and Latham Street came to establish their visual identities.
- [Choosing a brand name and tagline for a start-up business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/choosing-brand-names-and-taglines/): This blog looks at the origins of the brand names and taglines used by three businesses to help start-ups with the process.
- [Prost8 raise funds for first focal suite](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/prost8-raise-funds-for-first-focal-suite/): Prost8 raise funds for first focal suite at this year’s ICON event where they were the proud chosen charity partner.
- [The Endometriosis Foundation's House of Lords launch party](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/the-endometriosis-foundations-house-of-lords-launch-party/): Solopress attended the official launch of The Endometriosis Foundation at the House of Lords on Tuesday the 7th of March 2023. 
- [Customer service innovation brings Print Week Award success](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/customer-service-innovation-brings-print-week-award-success/): Recent innovative changes to the way we provide customer service have attracted recognition from our industry and customers alike.
- [This Way, That Way, Off We Go! A paperback story](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/this-way-that-way-off-we-go-a-paperback-story/): We’ve launched Paperback Books for the first time on solopress. com, and the debut publication that went through the press...
- [Photoshop in 4 minutes - Adobe tutorial for beginners](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/photoshop-in-4-minutes-adobe-tutorial-for-beginners/): This tutorial is perfect for all abilities, whether you're a beginner looking to learn Photoshop or a seasoned pro needing a refresher!
- [Lilt: the pros and cons of rebranding (and a lesson from a singing monkey)](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/lilt-the-pros-and-cons-of-rebranding-and-a-lesson-from-a-singing-monkey/): Today, we mourn Lilt. The Coca Cola Company has called time on this totally tropical brand. We explore the pros and cons of a brand makeover.
- [Farnham Chiropractic Wellness: a door drop campaign Pt 2](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/farnham-chiropractic-wellness-a-door-drop-campaign-pt-2/): Door drop campaigns are a great way to target the just right people for your business, as Farnham Chiropractic Wellness found out.
- [UK heads to the polls - election printing for May the 4th](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/uk-heads-to-the-polls-election-printing-for-may-the-4th/): Election printing is a powerful campaign tool. We look at how to produce persuasive print for the 2023 UK local elections on May 4th.
- [Look sharp! A history of Button Badges](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/look-sharp-a-history-of-button-badges/): From their invention in the late 19th century to the present day, we pin down the secret history of the Button Badge.
- [Farnham Chiropractic Wellness: a door drop campaign Pt 1](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/farnham-chiropractic-wellness-a-door-drop-campaign-pt-1/): A targeted door drop campaign can be a powerful lead generation tool. We followed Farnham Chiropractic Wellness to see how they got on.
- [B1 printing: what it means for you](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/b1-printing-what-it-means-for-you/): Solopress has blasted into the world of B1 printing with a £5m investment and 10,000 sq ft expansion, but what does all this mean for you?
- [Customer Stories: Plum & Belle](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/plum-belle/): Plum & Belle is an online boutique on a mission to make it easier to live more sustainably, yet no less stylishly.
- [Free 2023 UK marketing Calendar](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/free-2023-uk-marketing-calendar/): We love to make life easier for you, so we created a completely free marketing Calendar, available in three different formats.
- [The ultimate 2023 Exhibition Guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/the-ultimate-2023-exhibition-guide/): This definitive 2023 exhibition guide is a great place to discover dedicated trade shows and exhibitions for your sector.
- [Start-up Stories: Ancoats Guitars - an interview with Dave Roberts](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-an-interview-with-dave-roberts/): Solopress has followed Ancoats Guitars through its first year in business. We spoke to Dave Roberts at the London International Guitar Show.
- [Customer Stories: Suzie Construction](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/suzie-construction/): We spoke to Suzie Edwards, of Suzie Construction, to see how she is a pioneer for the rise of women in construction.
- [Umbrellas that became famous](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/umbrellas-that-became-famous/): Here's a selection of notable Umbrellas that stepped out of the shadows to shine in the spotlight and earned their claim to fame. 
- [Businesses united on Brexit but divided on the 4-day work week](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/businesses-united-on-brexit-but-divided-on-the-4-day-work-week/): A 4-day work week, Brexit and the cost-of-living crisis. These are some of the biggest issues facing Businesses in the UK.
- [Start-up Stories: Ancoats Guitars – making the leap](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-making-the-leap/): Looking to take the leap with a new start-up? Take tips from Dave Roberts of Ancoats Guitars' who's devoting more time to his business.
- [A guide to introducing Gift Vouchers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/a-guide-to-introducing-gift-vouchers/): Gift Voucher printing offers a win-win-win situation for retailers, gift givers and recipients, but there are a few golden rules to follow.
- [7 ways to season your Christmas print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/7-ways-to-season-your-christmas-print/): Christmas is stampeding towards us at a rate of knots. Here are some tips on how to create Christmas print with added sparkle.
- [Start-up Stories: Ancoats Guitars Christmas Cards & Calendars](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-christmas-cards-calendars/): Calendars and Christmas Cards proved to be a great way for Ancoats Guitars to get in front of their audience for the holidays and beyond.
- [The 10 funniest printed mugs on Etsy, and what they can teach us](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-10-funniest-printed-mugs-on-etsy/): Here’s our round-up of 10 funny, yet family friendly, printed Cups and Mugs, along with some top tips on what we can learn from them.
- [Customer Stories: Silvia Coletto, Paid Ads School](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/silvia-coletto-paid-ads-school/): Discover Google Ads and why incorporating print along with your online advertising is imperative for every business.
- [How to create a branded World Cup 2022 Wall Chart](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-create-a-branded-world-cup-2022-wall-chart/): Our free downloadable template gives you a Branded World Cup 2022 Wall Chart that gets you off the bench and into the game. 
- [How to use the Pen Tool in Photoshop - Adobe Tutorial](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-pen-tool-in-photoshop/): There’s more to the humble Pen Tool than meets the eye. In this video, we show you how to make the most of Photoshop’s most underrated tool.
- [12 things to include on a Business Card](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/12-things-to-include-on-a-business-card/): A Business Card offers a truly unique way to make a powerful first impression. With such little space, it’s important to know what to fit in.
- [How to use social media icons on Business Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-use-social-media-icons-on-business-cards/): Knowing how to use social media icons when designing Business Cards is a brilliant stepping stone to securing business from new contacts. 
- [Customer Stories: Manchester Model Railway Society](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/manchester-model-railway-society/): The Manchester Model Railway Society is the third oldest model railway society in the world and will soon celebrate its centenary.
- [Business Cards on screen - the HITS and the MISSES](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-cards-on-screen-the-hits-and-the-misses/): We take a look at Business Cards on TV and in the movies to see if they score a HIT or a MISS in terms of design, content and impact.
- [18 best free fonts to use on your print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/18-best-free-fonts-to-use-on-your-print/): Here are the 18 best free fonts to use on your print and some things you should think about when choosing typography for your business!
- [How to cut out images in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-cut-out-images-in-photoshop/): Knowing how to cut out images in Photoshop is something every designer needs to know. However, different shaped images different challenges.
- [10 events you need a Selfie Frame for](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/10-events-you-need-a-selfie-frame-for/): A Selfie Frame is the perfect plus one to bring to any celebration, whatever you’re hosting or attending, they’re a great addition.
- [Solopress offset 100,000 kg of CO2](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-offset-100000-kg-of-co2/): Imagine the lengths you’d have to go to charge 12,164,300 smartphones. Picture the carbon footprint of 100 return flights from London to NY
- [8 products to boost your brand this summer](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/your-summer-print-survival-kit/): The sweltering weather is in full effect, but are you bringing the heat when it comes to getting your message across with summer print?
- [Creating the complete Nursery Leaflet – with your ready-to-use Nursery Flyer Template](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/creating-the-complete-nursery-leaflet/): A professionally designed Nursery Leaflet offers an unmissable opportunity to express your ethos and remain the most.
- [Wireless Chargers: Are we on the road to a wireless future?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/are-we-on-the-road-to-a-wireless-future/): Wireless Charging brings a solution to many people’s pet peeve: wires. This begs the question, are we on the road to a wireless future?
- [UK Festival Posters 2022: Who’s top of the charts?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/uk-festival-posters-2022-whos-top-of-the-charts/): UK Festival season is well underway as crowds flock to see the stars of the 2022 line-ups. Glastonbury 2022 was reincarnated spectacularly.
- [10 expert tips for proofreading your work](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/10-tips-to-proofreading-your-work/): Here are several tips we’ve found and used that can help your proofreading in order to make your print perfect!
- [Why the Tour de France is a branded masterclass](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/tour-de-france-a-branded-masterclass/): What is it about the Tour de France which makes something we’re all capable of, in riding a bike, one of the most world-renowned sports?
- [Creating the perfect Tutoring Flyer - plus your ready-to-use Tuition Flyer Template](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/creating-the-perfect-tutoring-flyer/): Private tuition is a thriving industry, it’s becoming more competitive all the time. Creating a tuition flyer is the ideal first step.
- [Film star furniture: the role of the Director’s Chair](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/filmstar-furniture-the-role-of-the-directors-chair/): The simple Director's chair is a mainstay of movie making. But how did this elegant design come about, and how can it boost your business?
- [3D printing - The solution to our problems?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/3d-printing-the-solution-to-our-problems/): What other manufacturing process can be seen influencing so many other industries as heavily as 3D printing?
- [Glastonbury poster designs reviewed](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/glastonbury-poster-designs-reviewed/): With 2022's festival under way, we asked our design team to cast a critical eye over the hit Glastonbury poster designs, and the misses...
- [Carbon offsetting v recycling: what is the difference?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/carbon-offsetting-v-recycling/): Is carbon offsetting just a greenwashing scheme to finesse the public images of big businesses? As a business and as customers which is best?
- [Start-Up Stories: Ancoats Guitars goes to The Guitar Show](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-goes-to-the-guitar-show/): In our latest blog, we follow Dave Roberts as he exhibits Ancoats Guitars at The Guitar Show armed with fresh printed material & merchandise.
- [The amazing 600-year history of Flyer and Leaflet design](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-amazing-and-unique-600-year-history-of-flyer-and-leaflet-design/): Leaflet design has evolved so much over the last 600 years with Flyers and Leaflets having transformed modern day communication.
- [How to design Flyers and Leaflets](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-flyers-and-leaflets/): Watch our video tutorial and read our 10 top tips about how to design Flyers & Leaflets to turn your latest campaign into a marketing triumph!
- [Customer Stories: Mighty Dub Fest](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/mighty-dub-fest/): We spoke with Solopress customer Katy Emmett from Mighty Events Ltd to find out how she uses print to promote the Mighty Dub Fest.
- [New laser cutting capabilities from Solopress](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/new-laser-cutting-capabilities-from-solopress/): The Motioncutter 23 system allows Solopress to upgrade standard label production and introduce Custom Shape Stickers as a new product.
- [How to design Flyers & Leaflets in Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-flyers-leaflets-in-illustrator/): We'll teach you how to create a clear, engaging, and professionally designed Flyer or Leaflet on Adobe Illustrator.
- [How to design Flyers & Leaflets in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-flyers-leaflets-in-photoshop/): Let our talented graphic designer Matt Bruty let you in on his professional pointers for designing for Flyers & Leaflets in Photoshop.
- [How to crop images and layers in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-crop-images-and-layers-in-photoshop/): Learn about the many tips, tricks and shortcuts in Photoshop that let you tailor the way the Crop function can work for you.
- [Start-up Stories: Ancoats Guitars at the North East Guitar Show](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-at-the-north-east-guitar-show/): Ancoats Guitars recently returned from the North East Guitar Show, where they debuted their newly printed display materials from Solopress.
- [Start-up Stories: Ancoats Guitars prepares for the North East Guitar Show](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-prepares-for-the-north-east-guitar-show/): In our latest Start-Up Stories blog, we follow exciting new guitar builder, Ancoats Guitars as they prepare for The North East Guitar Show.
- [Customer Stories: Out of the Smoke by Matthew Wainwright](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-out-of-the-smoke-by-matt-wainwright/): In the run-up to World Book Day, we spoke to author Matt Wainwright about his experiences writing, publishing and promoting his novel, Out of the Smoke.
- [Cheers to That: Guinness’ Most Iconic St Patrick’s Day Campaigns](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/cheers-to-that-guinness-most-iconic-st-patricks-day-campaigns/): With millions looking forward to a cold pint of Guinness on 17th March, we analyse the brand’s top 5 St. Patrick’s Day marketing campaigns.
- [Start-up Stories: Ancoats Guitars gears up for print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-gears-up-for-print/): In our first ‘Start-up Stories’ blog, we introduced Dave Roberts and his brand new company, Ancoats Guitars. We’ve teamed up...
- [Location, Location, Location: The Best Place in the UK for Creative Workers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/location-location-location-the-best-place-in-the-uk-for-creative-workers/): Print and Design experts Solopress have investigated the best place to work in the UK within the creative industry.
- [Customer Stories: Andy’s Man Club](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-andys-man-club/): The Andy’s Man Club story demonstrates the amazing things that can be achieved when people come together to help each another.
- [UK businesses optimistic heading into 2022](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/uk-businesses-optimistic-heading-into-2022/): The results of our UK business survey show companies of all sizes heading into 2022 with an optimistic spring in their step.
- [Our role in election printing and the democratic process](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/our-role-in-election-printing-and-the-democratic-process/): We explore the role that print has to play in an election, and explain our position when it comes to deciding whether or not to print controversial content.
- [Start-up Stories: Introducing Ancoats Guitars](https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars/): This year, we’re following Ancoats Guitars, a new electric guitar brand. We’ll report on the first year in business & share tips on print.
- [Get shareable with Instagrammable locations and unboxable products](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/get-shareable-with-instagrammable-locations-and-unboxable-products/): Tips on how to create Instagrammable locations and unboxable products that will get your brand valuable exposure on social media
- [How to remove a white background in Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-remove-a-white-background-in-illustrator/): When you import an image into Illustrator, you'll want it blend into your project. We show you how to remove the existing white background.
- [Customer Stories: A Year Like No Other by Steven Watts](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/a-year-like-no-other-by-steven-watts/): Learn about how Steven Watts used lockdown to start an amazing fundraising project, and how Solopress are supporting his charitable efforts.
- [How to use spell check in InDesign](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-spell-check-in-indesign/): Our tutorial shows you how to use and personalise the spell check tool in InDesign to help you create flawless publications
- [They're back! A marketer’s guide to cracking the QR code](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/theyre-back-a-marketers-guide-to-cracking-the-qr-code/): Our guide looks at the origins of QR codes, the ups and down of their story and how to print them to make the most of the opportunities.
- [Customer Stories: GB Olympians Association](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/gb-olympians-association/): We worked with GB Olympians Association recently, and we were excited to learn about their work celebrating and supporting Olympians.
- [Meet Sally, the Solopress Chatbot](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/meet-sally-the-solopress-chatbot/): Meet the newest member of the Solopress Team: Sally the Chatbot. Sally’s been brought online to give you support when you need it, 24 hours a day.
- [How to use Layer Masks in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-layer-masks-in-photoshop/): In this tutorial, Solopress graphic designer Matt shows you around the tools you can use to select a complex shape and create a clipping mask.
- [Site upgrades make for a faster, bigger, safer Solopress.com](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/site-upgrades-make-for-a-faster-bigger-safer-solopress-com/): We've introduced upgrades to Solopress.com that make it faster, bigger, safer and easier to use regardless of what device you’re on.
- [Solopress announce sponsorship with Southend United FC](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-announce-sponsorship-with-southend-united-fc/): We're excited to announce that Solopress has become a sponsor and print partner to Southend United Football Club.
- [How to crop an image in Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-crop-an-image-in-illustrator/): Adobe Illustrator is widely used to design and edit vector graphics, we show you how you can manipulate a photographic file or raster image.
- [Solopress & Two Sides: busting the myths](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/two-sides/): Solopress has partnered with Two Sides, a not for profit, initiative promoting sustainability throughout the print supply chain.
- [How to add page numbers in InDesign: a step-by-step guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-page-numbers-in-indesign/): Learn how to add page numbers in InDesign effortlessly with our step-by-step video tutorial. Master the process of inserting page numbers and navigate your documents with ease.
- [Sticker types: our guide to the materials on offer](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/sticker-types/): Solopress has introduced innovative new sticker materials that can cope with challenging environments when it comes to moisture & temperature.
- [How to create a Clipping Mask in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-clipping-mask-in-photoshop/): Our tutorial video shows you how to create cool composite images by using a Clipping Mask to control the visibility of the superimposed layer
- [How to design the perfect Election Leaflet that voters can’t ignore!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-perfect-election-leaflet/): We asked you what makes the perfect Election Leaflet. Our survey results provide unmissable insight for anyone hoping to bring voters onside
- [Customer Stories: Nodding Dog Comedy](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/nodding-dog-comedy/): We spoke to Kev Rook from Nodding Dog Comedy about running an events company, promoting comedy through print, and all that funny business...
- [How to use the Pen Tool in Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-pen-tool-in-illustrator/): In this video tutorial, we'll show you how to use the Pen Tool in Adobe Illustrator, from the basic functions to the more complex features.
- [The Green Screen buyer's guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/green-screen-buyers-guide/): In our Green Screen buyers' guide, we give you all of the important information you need to ensure you purchase the right screen for your needs.
- [Customer Stories: Becky Alexander, The Body Shop at Home](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/becky-alexander-the-body-shop-at-home/): When Becky Alexander, Area Manager with The Body Shop at Home, got in touch to praise us for our affordable prices and high-quality print, we were keen to know more about her experiences.
- [The Pantone colours of the year 2021](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/the-pantone-colours-of-the-year-2021/): In a departure from tradition, the Pantone Institute have selected not one, but two colours of the year for 2021.
- [Solopress launches new eco-friendly print range](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-launches-new-eco-friendly-print-range/): Essex-based print company Solopress has announced a new range of environmentally-friendly print products called Solopress Green.
- [Customer Stories: Stepping Stone Theatre For Mental Health](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/stepping-stone-theatre-for-mental-health/): We learn more about Stepping Stone Theatre For Mental Health who won 500 printed Calendars & 5,000 Christmas Cards in our competition.
- [Apostrophe rules - anything goes?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/apostrophe-rules-anything-goes/): Many brands break the apostrophe rules, but you don’t need to be one of them. Discover how and when to use an apostrophe in your marketing with this guide.
- [Customer Stories: Rosemary and Time](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/rosemary-and-time/): Rosemary and Time is a social enterprise that supports people living with dementia through horticultural workshops and seed growing kits.
- [What is Lorem Ipsum and why is it used?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/what-is-lorem-ipsum-and-why-is-it-used/): Lorem Ipsum copy has been used as placeholder text in design for generations. Discover what Lorem Ipsum means and how it’s used in print and digital.
- [What is DPI?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/what-is-dpi/): Learn about what DPI is, what it stands for, and the difference between DPI and PPI by reading our easy-to-follow blog post.
- [How to construct a call to action](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/how-to-construct-a-call-to-action/): We're offering 6 great tips for the optimum “call to action” — or CTA — the tool that inspires your target audience to act.
- [Customer Stories: Stargazy Rum Liqueur](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/stargazy-rum-liqueur/): Stargazy Cosmic Caramel is new a rum liqueur from Cornwall that’s gathering a huge following with the help of Gold Foil print from Solopress.
- [Estate agent board regulations](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/estate-agent-board-regulations/): Grab the attention of potential buyers and tenants with a well-designed estate agent sign. Discover the rules and regulations your board must follow here.
- [Customer Stories: Rituals & Declarations Magazine](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/rituals-declarations-magazine/): Rituals & Declarations is a publication printed by Solopress that covers topics spanning folklore, myth and all things gothic.
- [The ultimate guide to outdoor advertising](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-ultimate-guide-to-outdoor-advertising/): Learn everything you need to know about outdoor marketing products, ideas, designs and regulations in the Solopress ultimate guide to outdoor advertising.
- [A world-first: Solopress invests in two HP PageWide Web Press T250 HD machines](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/hp-t250/): Read about how Solopress has become the first company worldwide to have invested in the new, state-of-the-art T250 digital inkjet press from Hewlett Packard.
- [The ultimate guide to paper recycling](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/the-ultimate-guide-to-paper-recycling/): Do we really know what kinds of paper products we can recycle? The Ultimate Guide to Paper Recycling explains how, what and why we recycle.
- [The ultimate guide to Posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-posters/): Learn everything you need to know about Poster design, ideas, paper types and distribution in the Solopress ultimate guide to Posters.
- [Customer Stories: The Hair Gallery](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/the-hair-gallery/): Read about how fledgling salon The Hair Gallery turned to Solopress to produce branded face visors to allow them to reopen their businesses from lockdown.
- [Split deliveries and a new look checkout for Solopress](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/new-checkout/): Read about Solopress have completed a major overhaul of our checkout process following customer feedback, adding new functionality including split deliveries.
- [Safety in style - MotoGP face masks reviewed](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/safety-in-style-motogp-face-masks-reviewed/): Ahead of the first MotoGP race of the 2020 season, we take a look at the face masks the teams and riders are wearing to protect against COVID-19.
- [How to curve text in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-curve-text-in-photoshop/): In this video tutorial, we take a look at how you can manipulate text so that it follows a line or shape of our choosing.
- [Customer Stories: WebBox](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/webbox/): Read about how digital agency WebBox use Solopress to produce high-quality print in order to effectively market themselves and their clients in style.
- [Does humour in marketing drive sales?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/does-humour-in-marketing-drive-sales/): Humour in advertising has been around for decades, but does it actually help drive sales? Discover how to use advertising psychology in your next campaign.
- [Safety in style - Formula One face masks reviewed](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/safety-in-style-formula-one-face-masks-reviewed/): Ahead of the first Formula One Grand Prix of the 2020 season, we take a look at the face masks the teams are wearing to protect against COVID-19.
- [The importance of colours in print marketing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/colours-in-print-marketing/): What does your brand’s colours say about your company? Find out with our guide to the meaning behind colours and how to use colours in advertising.
- [What does the latest lockdown relaxation announcement mean for businesses?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/lockdown-relaxation/): We've rounded up the key points from government's announcement on 23rd June on the latest lockdown relaxation measures, and the impact they will have on UK businesses.
- [Fitzwilliam Museum updates classic paintings with a 2020 twist](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/fitzwilliam-museum-update-classic-paintings/): Read about how Cambridge-based art gallery, The Fitzwilliam Museum, are combining greeting cards and face masks to raise funds while their doors are closed.
- [How to use hand sanitiser effectively](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-use-hand-sanitiser-effectively/): Following our launch of our range of hand sanitiser stations, we took a look at how you should use sanitising gel to get the full benefit it can provide.
- [5 things you should know about Green Screens](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/5-things-about-green-screens/): Ever wondered how a green screen works, how to use one or even why they are green in the first place? Read our blog to find out these answers and more.
- [How retailers can reopen shops safely during the lockdown](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-businesses-can-reopen-during-lockdown/): Read our guide on how retailers can reopen shops as the coronavirus lockdown is relaxed in the UK, putting the safety of their staff and customers first.
- [Solopress launches face mask design competition](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/face-mask-design-competition/): Following the launch of the #MyMaskMyWay competition, Solopress managing director Simon Cooper talks about how he hopes it can support the design community.
- [Which face coverings are right for you?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/which-face-coverings-are-right-for-you/): The UK government have recommended that we cover our faces, but which form of face covering should you choose? Read our guide to help with your decision.
- [Print allows German football fans to show their support](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-football-fans/): With the Bundesliga returning behind closed doors in May 2020, we look at how Borussia Mönchengladbach have used print to help fill their stadium with fans.
- [Solopress donates server space to fight COVID-19](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-donates-server-space-to-fight-covid-19/): Read about how Solopress has lent some of its server space to the Folding@home project, helping them to try and create therapuetics to combat coronavirus.
- [Face shields receive BSI certification for use against COVID-19](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/face-shields-bsi-certification/): Managing director Simon Cooper comments on the news that Solopress' full face shields have received BSI certification to be used as PPE to contain COVID-19.
- [Solopress adapts to support businesses in new ways during COVID-19](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-supports-businesses-during-covid-19/): Managing Director Simon Cooper discusses how Solopress have adapted their production capabitilies to join the fight against COVID-19 and support UK businesses.
- [Looking for a genius beer mat marketing campaign? Better Call Saul!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/better-call-saul-beer-mats/): Read about this superb printed beer mat marketing campaign by Netflix for the hit series Better Call Saul that was launched in pubs and bars across the UK.
- [6 tips for how to write slogans and taglines that sell](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/6-tips-for-how-to-write-advertising-slogans-that-sell/): When distilling the essence of your offering down to an advertising slogan, it’s worth investing time and effort getting it right. Check out our 6 tips.
- [How to use the Image Trace Tool in Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-image-trace-tool-in-illustrator/): Our tutorial video shows you how to set options and preferences to optimise your conversion from raster to vector using the image trace tool.
- [Customer Stories: Reach Tutors](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/reach-tutors/): Reach Tutors share their journey into the world of supplementary education and explain how printing with Solopress has helped them establish their business.
- [How to create a glitch effect in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-glitch-effect-in-photoshop/): This tutorial shows how to create a glitch effect in Photoshop. Don't want to wait around for a technical fault, create your malfunction masterpiece today!
- [Brochure printing - your questions answered](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/brochure-printing-your-questions-answered-2/): We answer some of the most commonly asked questions we received when it comes to printing brochures and booklets here at Solopress.
- [How to import a PDF into InDesign](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-import-a-pdf-into-indesign/): In this tutorial, we look at how add a PDF to an InDesign document. Our video explores the options and preferences available as you import your PDF.
- [The ultimate guide to exhibiting at trade shows](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/the-ultimate-guide-to-exhibiting-at-trade-shows/): Making an impact at a trade show can be tough. Here’s our ultimate guide packed with exhibition stand ideas to help you smash it this exhibition season.
- [How to create a dotted line in Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-dotted-line-in-illustrator/): Clarify infographics and embellish your vector illustrations using dotted lines. Our tutorial shows you how to create a dotted line in Illustrator.
- [How to use the gradient tool in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-gradient-tool-in-photoshop/): We’re taking a look at how to use the gradient tool in Photoshop to create stunning colour blend effects in your designs.
- [The ultimate guide to Flyers & Leaflets](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-flyers-leaflets/): Flyers and leaflets are an affordable way to promote events, products and services. Here's our comprehensive guide to flyers and leaflets.
- [How to use the gradient tool in Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-gradient-tool-in-illustrator/): Mastering the Illustrator gradient tool lets you apply gradient effects to vector objects and modify the gradient attributes.
- [How to add bullet points in InDesign](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-bullet-points-in-indesign/): Check out our video tutorial to learn everything you need to know about adding bullet points in InDesign, Adobe's industry-leading publishing program.
- [Customer Stories: Emma Warren Design](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/emma-warren-design/): Solopress customer Emma Warren speaks to us about how printed postcards keep her brand fresh in the minds of customers and encourage repeat purchases.
- [How to add a drop shadow in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-a-drop-shadow-in-photoshop/): The latest in our series of tutorial videos shows you how to add a drop shadow in Photoshop. introducing a third dimension to your 2D design.
- [How to add fonts in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-fonts-in-photoshop/): We take you through our video tutorial on how to add fonts to Photoshop. This is part of our ongoing series of tutorial videos on the Adobe suite.
- [How to resize an image in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-resize-an-image-in-photoshop/): In this video tutorial, we present a step-by-step guide on how to resize an image in photoshop without compromising on resolution.
- [The Pantone colour of the year 2020 and how to use it](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/pantone-colour-of-the-year-2020/): Classic Blue is the Pantone colour of the year for 2020. We look at why it came out top, why now, and how you can use it to great effect.
- [Gratitude marketing at Christmas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/gratitude-marketing-at-christmas/): Saying thank you is important at Christmas. Here’s our guide to gratitude marketing, how to tackle it and the business opportunities it offers.
- [Beyond Christmas for B2B companies](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/beyond-christmas-for-b2b-companies/): In this podcast, we chat to B2B marketers about their experiences of Christmas seasonality. We discuss timings, trends, strategies and solutions, as well as what lies beyond.
- [Marketing your January sale](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-your-january-sale/): WHAT discount claims are you entitled to make? WHEN are people shopping? HOW do you promote your sale? WHY is everything red and white? Here's our guide to January sales marketing.
- [Holding a Christmas event](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/holding-a-christmas-event/): In the Solopress Christmas survey, 57% of shoppers said they’d attended a Christmas event hosted by a business. Here's our guide to putting on your own Christmas event.
- [A guide to corporate Christmas cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/corporate-christmas-cards/): A Christmas card – it's the original seasonal mail-out. Our video guide to bespoke corporate Christmas cards discusses sending cards to clients & customers
- [Christmas gift guide designs & tips](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-gift-guides/): We cast our eye over the Christmas gift guide designs created by several large retail brands whose brochures we’ve seen so far in Christmas 2019.
- [Black Friday marketing ideas for small businesses](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/black-friday-marketing-ideas-for-small-businesses/): Take a look at our Black Friday marketing ideas and discover how your business can make the most of the event this year. Visit Solopress today.
- [Upselling and cross-selling at Christmas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/upselling-and-cross-selling-at-christmas/): We discuss 7 methods and mechanics for upselling and cross-selling at Christmas, as well as 7 golden rules for getting it right!
- [Customer Stories: Too Many PJs](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/too-many-pjs/): When ethical kids' interiors company Too Many PJs exhibited at the London Design Festival, Solopress were thrilled to take care of the print requirements.
- [Christmas marketing strategies for B2C businesses](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/christmas-marketing-strategies-for-b2c-businesses/): In this marketing podcast, we focus on how B2C business can attract footfall and increase revenue during the Christmas period and beyond.
- [Running a Christmas competition](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-competition/): It's a busy time, but there are plenty of reasons why a Christmas competition is worthwhile. We offer some DOs & DON'Ts for holding your Christmas comp.
- [The DOs and DON’Ts of Christmas content](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-content-dos-and-donts/): You need to adapt your tone of voice over Christmas without losing sight of your core brand identity. Here's our video guide to the DOs and DON'Ts of Christmas content.
- [Print marketing at Christmas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/preparing-for-christmas-with-print/): Print can play a major role in solving many of these challenges Christmas. With 20 years of experience in the industry, we’re in a great place to help out. Here are 14 tips to help you get the most out of printed materials this Christmas and beyond.
- [Christmas marketing timeline](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-marketing-timeline/): Take a look at our handy timeline infographic that will help you plan your Christmas marketing activity to make the biggest impact.
- [British businesses ‘ignoring accessibility in print design’](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-accessibility-survey-solopress/): Accessibility is a big deal in design. Yet many businesses are ignoring it. Read our report on what UK businesses think about design accessibility.
- [Designing for accessibility: How we created expert-approved templates](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/designing-for-accessibility-how-we-created-expert-approved-templates/): Accessible design is a big topic. Learn how we created templates that comply with designing for accessibility best practice. Get the templates.
- [Solopress at The Print Show 2019](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-at-the-print-show-2019/): The Print Show is the UK’s print industry annual expo at the NEC. For our first ever appearance, we decided to bring the beach to Birmingham.
- [Let’s shimmer and shine – our guide to spot UV and foiling](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/lets-shimmer-and-shine-our-guide-to-gold-foil-silver-foil-and-spot-uv/): It's showtime. Spot UV and foiling let you highlight design elements in gold, silver or gloss varnish, to create an eye-catching & tactile brochure.
- [All-new multi version poster options](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/all-new-multi-version-poster-options-solopress/): Get creative – and save money – with multi version posters. Print a collection of unique, individual posters for less than the cost of ordering individually.
- [Folded leaflet type guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/folded-leaflet-type-guide/): Here's the Solopress guide to all the different folded leaflet types – and how they can bring something fresh to your next piece of promotional collateral
- [Live music - promoting with print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/live-music-promoting-with-print/): Whether you’re a solo artist, band member or live music promoter – advertising your event is vital. Read our guide to promotional print that will have you packing them in.
- [How to benefit from using table talkers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/table-talkers/): Compact, affordable and effective, table talkers are taking over the service industry. Find out how your brand can benefit from them with our guide.
- [What is a Leaflet? 10 essential questions about Leaflets](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/what-is-a-leaflet-10-essential-questions-about-leaflets/): What is a leaflet? What are the best fonts to use? And how do you distribute them? Discover the questions and answers you need to know in our Q&A guide.
- [Top 10 coffee shop promotion ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/top-10-ideas-for-coffee-shops-to-promote-themselves-using-print/): Customers are key to any successful business. Build your customer loyalty and increase your sales with our top marketing ideas for coffee shops.
- [What is an A-Board? 10 essential questions about A-boards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-questions-about-a-boards/): Using A-boards for advertising? Get answers to important questions about so-called sandwich boards – from A-board sizes to design. Learn more.
- [We are Solopress – Marc Baker](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/we-are-solopress-marc-baker/): In this latest instalment of ‘We are Solopress’, we speak with Marc Baker from our Marketing team. Marc is our mild-mannered Digital Designer, just don’t mention Comic Sans…
- [Making the Cut: Solopress invests in Kongsberg C Edge cutting table](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/making-the-cut-solopress-invests-in-kongsberg-c-edge-cutting-table/): Solopress has acquired a Kongsberg C Edge – a multi-function, super-wide digital cutting table with some high-tech tricks up its sleeve…
- [Best marketing trade shows](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/best-marketing-trade-shows/): Thinking of networking and promoting your brand at a marketing event? Learn about the best marketing exhibitions with our profile of the world’s biggest.
- [How to gain more repeat customers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-gain-more-repeat-customers/): It's a rookie mistake; assuming that once you've made that sale, your job is done. Take a look at our blog to help gain more repeat customers.
- [Who invented Business Cards?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/who-invented-business-cards/): Business Cards have been around since the days of ancient China. Learn about the history of the Business Card – from the 15th century to today.
- [Solopress celebrate 20 years in the print industry](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-celebrate-20-years-in-the-print-industry/): Solopress celebrated it’s 20 year anniversary in July 2019, with the company that was started by Aron Priest and Andy...
- [Gourmet burger restaurant marketing ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/gourmet-burger-restaurant-marketing-tips/): Are you looking for new ways to promote your restaurant? Take your burger shop to the next level with our guide on the top marketing ideas.
- [How to make nightclub flyers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-create-a-nightclub-flyer/): The quality of your nightclub flyers can make or break an event. Learn how to make nightclub flyers with our guide and ensure your dancefloor is packed.
- [A digital upgrade: Solopress invests in two new HP Indigo 10000 digital presses](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-invests-in-hp-indigo-10000-digital-presses/): Solopress managing director Simon Cooper talks about his decision to acquire two HP Indigo 10000 digital presses.
- [Why print loyalty cards for your business?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/why-print-loyalty-cards-for-your-business/): Loyalty cards reward customers and encourage repeat business. Check out these ideas on why you should print loyalty cards for use in your shop or office.
- [10 steps to flyers and leaflets that earn business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-steps-to-flyers-and-leaflets-that-earn-business/): How can flyers and leaflets drive sales for your business? We have 10 steps to make yours a great marketing tool.
- [Hartes Beauty - promoting a brand from a secluded location](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/hartes-beauty-promoting-a-brand-from-a-secluded-location/): Hartes Beauty was struggling to get noticed inside a local gym. See how Solopress’ products helped the salon promote its brand and attract new customers.
- [The value of gratitude marketing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-value-of-gratitude-marketing/): Are you eager to attract new leads? Increase conversions on your website? Grow your social media following? Retain loyal customers with gratitude marketing.
- [10 of the best membership and loyalty card design ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/10-cool-membership-card-designs/): Looking for loyalty card design inspiration? Need some tips on membership card design? Check out 10 of our favourites to inspire your own artwork
- [Tattoo shop marketing ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/tattoo-shop-marketing/): Tattoo shop marketing is about more than Instagram. Explore our tattoo shop advertising ideas to take your promotional activity beyond the gram.
- [Broadening our horizons: Solopress goes wide with Agfa Anapurna investment](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-goes-wide-with-agfa-anapurna-investment/): Leading UK online printer Solopress adds two Agfa Anapurna H2500i LED hybrid wide-format presses, increasing the company's wide-format printing options.
- [Are flyers still effective?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/are-flyers-still-effective/): Flyers have been used by everyone from punk bands to campaigning politicians. But are flyers still effective in the digital age? We say yes – find out why.
- [Six famous business cards - from Gaga to Obama](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/six-famous-business-cards-from-gaga-to-obama/): Celebrity Business Cards are a great inspiration. Learn from politicians and business leaders to create your own business card - from Lady Gaga to Barack Obama.
- [Postcard design ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/postcards-trendy-cool-design/): Think outside the box with your marketing with an effective postcard design. Check out these inspiring postcard ideas and start designing your own today.
- [School children make their mark with Solopress competition](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/school-children-make-their-mark-with-solopress-competition/): Thousands of school children from around the UK take part in Solopress' Make Your Mark competition, winning custom-made bookmarks and books for their class.
- [The world’s biggest trade shows revealed](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/the-worlds-biggest-trade-shows-revealed/): From futuristic TVs to fantastic automobiles. Trade shows are where the hottest new products debut. We list 7 of the best on the planet.
- [Summer marketing tips](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/summer-marketing-tips/): Don't let your business go into 'holiday mode' with these summer marketing tips that will keep drawing in the customers.
- [Stick ‘em up! 12 ways for businesses to use stickers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/stickers-business-tips/): Check out 12 ways that Stickers can form part of your marketing campaigns and help you business to stand out from the crowd
- [Why print matters for political campaigns](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/why-print-matters-for-political-campaigns/): Political parties have embraced digital. But print is still the bedrock of any election campaign. Explore the advantages of offline marketing for politics.
- [10 advantages of Leaflets](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-advantages-of-leaflets/): Leaflets can help your product, service or event connect with your audience at the right place and at the right time. Find out how with our guide.
- [10 advantages of Business Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-advantages-of-business-cards/): Business Cards are effective at networking events, client meetings and when you’re out and about. Our guide details 10 key advantages.
- [How to promote a nail salon](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-your-nail-salon/): One of the biggest challenges beauty businesses face is marketing. Attract new customers and stand out with these top tips for nail salon marketing.
- [10 advantages of offline marketing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-advantages-of-offline-marketing/): Personal, tangible and trustworthy, discover the top 10 advantages of offline marketing. Boost your product launch, event or store opening with Solopress.
- [7 election Leaflets that made their mark](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/election-leaflets-best-design-examples/): Election Leaflets can be inspiring with the right design. Get some inspiration from our list of 7 examples of how to write an election Leaflet. Who gets your vote?
- [How to distribute Flyers and Leaflets](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-ways-to-distribute-your-leaflets-and-flyers/): Follow our Leaflet distribution guide to reach the right people at the right time with your message. Learn how to distribute Leaflets and Flyers today.
- [How to rebrand your business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-rebrand-your-business/): From logos to fonts, colours and graphics – redefine your company image and transform your promotional output with our guide to rebranding.
- [5 amazing design trends for 2019](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/5-amazing-design-trends-for-2019/): 2019 will see several design trends make a big impact on business branding. Here are creative industries professor Phil Cleaver’s top five.
- [Inspiring greeting card ideas for any occasion](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/inspiring-greeting-card-ideas-for-any-occasion/): From birthday wishes to giving thanks, greeting cards are perfect for any occasion. Follow our instructive guide and discover inspiring ideas at Solopress.
- [Simon Cooper to Join Solopress as Managing Director](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/simon-cooper-to-join-solopress-as-managing-director/): Print-industry expert Simon Cooper joins Solopress as managing director in February 2019.
- [5 benefits of Loyalty Cards for businesses](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/5-benefits-of-loyalty-cards-for-businesses/): Loyalty cards can do wonders for your brand, boosting repeat sales and customer satisfaction. Discover their five biggest benefits and create yours today.
- [Save the date card ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/save-the-date-card-ideas/): Announce your upcoming wedding to your friends and family in style with a set of memorable save the date cards. Discover our ideas and get inspired here.
- [Solopress Co-founder voted as the people's choice](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-co-founder-voted-as-the-peoples-choice/): We’re excited to announce that Aron has come in top place in the people’s vote as part of the industry-recognised...
- [How to write a Leaflet](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-write-a-leaflet/): Effectively share the message of your next campaign by learning how to write a Leaflet with our six-step guide – with helpful dos and don’ts.
- [A guide to roller banners](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-guide-to-roller-banners/): Roller banners are an excellent way to promote your event or trade show. Find the right size for your needs at Solopress.
- [10 Christmas marketing ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/10-christmas-marketing-ideas/): Create buzz around your products and services with 10 Christmas marketing tips. Get the ideas today.
- [Solopress designer self-publishes children's book](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-designer-self-publishes-childrens-book/): We’re incredibly proud to announce that one of our very own has written, illustrated and published a children’s book ‘The...
- [A guide to Leaflet sizes, styles and paper types](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-guide-to-leaflet-sizes-styles-and-paper-types/): Leaflets still have an important part to play in a successful marketing strategy. Read our simple guide and discover the variety of Leaflets available.
- [A guide to Flyer sizes & dimensions](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/a-guide-to-flyer-sizes-dimensions/): Discover the basics about flyers, from the sizes available to the materials they’re printed on. Read online at Solopress.
- [Solopress raise £1,951 for Wear It Pink](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-raise-1951-for-wear-it-pink/): In October 2018, Solopress raised £1,951 for the UK's leading breast cancer charity, Breast Cancer Now, through their Wear It Pink fundraising campaign.
- [Inspiring Halloween party invitation ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/inspiring-halloween-party-invitation-ideas/): Throwing a spooky party? Discover inspiring Halloween invitation ideas for every type of bash at Solopress.
- [Win a 24" x 24" Canvas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/win-a-24-x-24-canvas/): We’ve recently hit 17,000 reviews on Trustpilot and we couldn’t be more grateful to our customers who over the years,...
- [Attention-grabbing poster design ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/attention-grabbing-poster-design-ideas/): Looking for poster ideas for your next event promotion or product launch? Capture the imagination of your audience with helpful design tips from Solopress.
- [Wedding invitation design ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/wedding-invitation-design-ideas/): Looking for ideas for your wedding invitation design? Our guide takes you through the features you can customise and some fabulous creative ideas.
- [Solopress sponsors young England star](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-sponsors-young-england-star/): Southend-based printers Solopress assist local goalkeeper Harry Seaden on his path to become a professional footballer.
- [Poster sizes – a complete poster size guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/poster-sizes-a-complete-poster-size-guide/): Burst onto the scene with the right poster and you can make a real impact. Keep your designs on the right track with our posters and poster size guide.
- [A guide to choosing the right type of paper](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/choosing-the-right-paper-a-guide-to-types-of-paper/): When your business has a big printing project on the horizon, know your paper with Solopress’ helpful guide to different paper types.
- [Envelope sizes – a complete size guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/envelopes-sizes-a-complete-size-guide/): Have an upcoming event to promote? Wedding invitations to send out? Learn all you need to know about envelopes and envelope sizes with our simple guide.
- [Start-up Britain - the best UK cities to start a business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/start-up-britain/): Does London lead the way when it comes to successful start-ups? Download our latest report now and discover the best UK cities to start a business.
- [A guide to paper sizes](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-guide-to-paper-sizes/): Tired of wading through the sea of information related to paper and paper sizes? Cut through the clutter with our comprehensive guide.
- [How to write and word wedding invitations](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/how-to-write-and-word-wedding-invitations/): If you’re in the midst of planning your big day, use our guide to how to write and word wedding invitations and tick invites off your list.
- [Business Card size guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-card-size-guide/): Take a look at our Business Card size guide and discover which one’s best for you. From standard to mini, we have all shapes and sizes.
- [17 ways to market a small business on a budget](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/budget-small-business-marketing/): Marketing for small business can often make you wonder where to start so, we've put together 17 ways to market a small business on a budget to help.
- [Why you need to develop a small business marketing plan](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/small-business-marketing-plan/): Why should you develop a small business marketing plan? Marketing been shown to increase revenue by up to 19% and provide useful tools for you to use
- [What is GSM paper weight?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/what-is-gsm-paper-weight/): Choosing your paper weight is an important part of having your print produced. We've broken down this for you to help make those choices just a bit easier.
- [Pantone colours vs CMYK - which are best for printing?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/pantone-colours-vs-cmyk-colours/): Choosing the right colour process for your print is not easy. We compare Pantone colours & CMYK colours to help you decide what the best fit is for you.
- [How to keep your marketing materials fresh](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-keep-your-marketing-materials-fresh/): Struggling to keep your marketing material fresh? Not to worry, we've created a guide to freshening up your marketing materials.
- [Modern Student Business: The New Co-Worker](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/modern-student-business-the-new-co-worker/): Solopress explore the trend of modern student businesses, finding that launching a start-up was a more appealing lifestyle for the younger generation.
- [Your complete DL size guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-complete-dl-size-guide-what-is-dl-solopress/): Discover our guide to DL size, including how it compares to other dimensions of paper, Envelopes, Brochures, Flyers, Leaflets, Cards and Invitations.
- [Useful free resources for designers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/useful-free-designer-resources/): Need help with a new project? Here are a handful of well-known, and not-so-well-known tools that designers use daily.
- [Photoshop tutorial - how to create a double exposure effect in Photoshop](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-double-exposure-effect/): Back in the day, the double exposure effect was produced using nothing but a camera to combine two separate images, creating an amazing abstract photograph.
- [Origami designers who will make you go wow](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/origami-designers/): Prepare to be mindblown... We've picked 5 impressive origami designers with impressive folded models, from cute cats to Alien's xenomorph!
- [Popular TV show title fonts](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/popular-tv-show-title-fonts/): Time to appreciate these beautiful TV Show title fonts with our latest blog post dedicated to typography in TV Series.
- [5 creative floral tattoo artists you’ll love](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/floral-tattoo-artists/): With the Chelsea Flower Show underway, we are surrounded by stunning floral arrangements. Such things give so many different people inspirations to create.
- [Photoshop tutorial - how to create beautiful floral typography](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/tutorial-create-beautiful-floral-typography-photoshop/): Learn how to create beautiful floral typography in Adobe Photoshop with our simple and easy to follow tutorial.
- [The most popular FREE movie poster fonts](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/popular-fonts-used-movie-posters/): In light of the upcoming film festival in Cannes, film posters are everywhere. Movie posters and their fonts are a huge part in advertising the picture.
- [Sustainability Within The Print Industry](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/sustainability-print-industry/): With Earth Day fast approaching, we are looking at sustainability in the print industry and what we can do to help. So what is sustainability?
- [Red Nose Day 2017](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/red-nose-day/): Red nose day is a national charity event coordinated by Comic Relief. It occurs once every 2 years and this year, the event took place on Friday 24th March.
- [Solopress is Joining Onlineprinters Group](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-joining-onlineprinters-group/): Exciting times are afoot at Solopress as we are joining forces with Onlineprinters, one of Europe's top online print providers. 
- [Top 5 Stylish Gift Wrapping Ideas for Mother’s Day](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/top-5-stylish-gift-wrapping-ideas-mothers-day/): A good gift needs an equally good presentation. Add a personal touch to mother’s day with our unique and crafty gift wrap ideas.
- [How to design your stickers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-your-stickers/): If you're considering stickers or decals, we've got all the info you need to select the ideal material and create an effective sticker design
- [How creativity in business can help you achieve success](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/creativity-business-achieve-success/): How crucial is creativity to your business or career? We asked 500 business owners from a variety of sectors to tell us their thoughts.
- [How to foster a creative work environment](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/foster-creative-work-environment/): Author & creative business advisor, Pete Mosley, shares his thoughts how companies can foster a creative work environment
- [The UK’s most recognisable typeface](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/the-uks-most-recognisable-typeface/): Discover the UK's most recognised typeface and test your own font knowledge in our quiz for a chance to win a typography book bundle worth £50.
- [Fonts That Define A City](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/fonts-that-define-a-city/): What makes a font great? Being part of an identity. Explore the cities, which are are defined by their fonts in Solopress' font-tastic campaign.
- [10 years with the Chelmsford Chieftains](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/10-years-with-the-chelmsford-chieftains/): At Solopress, we are celebrating 10 years official sponsorship of the Chelmsford Chieftains ice hockey team. Co-founder Aron Priest went along to mark the occasion.
- [A quick guide to image resolution](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-quick-guide-to-image-resolution/): Easy for those in the know, difficult for newcomers to design. Here is a quick run down to make life easier when supplying your images for print.
- [A history of branding](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/a-history-of-branding/): From a simple way to identify cattle to worldwide theories behind design and corporate identity, let's take a look at the history of branding.
- [Incredible Vintage Seaside Posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/incredible-vintage-seaside-posters/): Let's take a step back in time and celebrate our local history with some beautiful vintage seaside posters.
- [The Guardian unveil brand guidelines](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-guardian-unveil-brand-guidelines/): In a bid to solidify their 'brand DNA', The Guardian have now unveiled their official guidelines to ensure steady evolution instead of revolution.
- [International Print Day](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/international-print-day/): In celebration of International Print Day, let's take some time to look at the very first print reproductions and how we got to where we are today.
- [Inspirational Photography by Dean Chalkley](https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/inspirational-photography-by-dean-chalkley/): Dean Chalkley had a strange career path before becoming a highly acclaimed photographer. Here's the story behind his inspiration and incredible work.
- [Andy Warhol - before the banana](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/andy-warhol-before-the-banana/): Possibly the most celebrated name in the world of Pop Art, Andy Warhol. Let's take a look at how he went from social outcast to become a 1960's pop icon.
- [Rainy day marketing ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/rainy-day-marketing-ideas/): Don't let the rain dampen your day. Here are some products to make sure that your marketing is not washed away with the wet weather.
- [Other Worldly Photos by Erik Johansson](https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/other-worldly-erik-johansson/): Artist, Designer, Photographer… Meticulous Fantasist. Erik Johansson is a Swedish-born artist who specialises in capturing ideas and not moments.
- [The importance of vocabulary](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-importance-of-vocabulary/): Take a look at our latest blog about the importance of vocabulary and how it is involved in every aspect of our lives.
- [Inspired Photography By Luke Gram](https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/photography-by-luke-gram/): We caught up with prolific photographer/traveller Luke Gram to tell us the story behind his truly inspirational work. Prepare to be amazed.
- [Free Design Templates](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/free-design-templates/): As well as our Create Your Own feature, we also have some great free design templates to ensure your work is the correct size before you print. Take a look!
- [The facts about pulp](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-facts-about-pulp/): Perfect for that vintage feel and eco friendly, let’s take some time to look into the facts about printing with Pulp.
- [A brief history of album art](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/a-brief-history-of-album-art/): This week we've been looking at album art. Will what's on the cover make or break your next music purchase? Let's take a look at where the idea came from.
- [Photoshop tutorial - how to design a neon poster](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/photoshop-tutorial-how-to-design-a-day-glo-poster/): Learn how to design a Day Glo Poster in Adobe Photoshop with our easy to follow tutorial.
- [Pantone or process?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/pantone-or-process/): CMYK or Pantone? Unsure of which colour format you need for the job? Let’s take a look to explain the differences and where they are all needed.
- [Spot UV - how does it work?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/spot-uv-how/): When searching for printed products you may have come across the term ‘Spot UV’. Let's take a look at this fantastic technique and see how it works.
- [Digital and lithographic printing - a comparison](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/digital-and-lithographic-printing-a-comparison/): We take a look at the two most popular printing methods in use today - digital and lithographic - explaining both so that you can decide which is right for you.
- [PUR binding - how does it work?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/pur/): What is PUR Binding and why is it so superior to the rest? As we explore, the real difference in the two methods is the glue used and how this reacts chemically.
- [Coated paper vs. uncoated paper](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/coated-paper-vs-uncoated-paper/): What is a coated paper? What is uncoated paper? What is the real difference and how will it change how people think of your business? Find out here.
- [How CMYK works](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/cmyk-works/): What is CMYK and how does it work? Find out everything you need to know about CMYK printing and how it differs from RGB in our guide.
- [How Print Has Changed The World](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-has-changed-the-world/): We hardly think about it these days. We order business cards or buy a paperback book, and never consider how print has changed the world.
- [The art of menu design](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/art-of-menu-design/): Great menu design is an essential aspect of running a successful restaurant or bar. Check out these tips for creating a a mouthwatering menu.
- [The phenomenon of unusual job titles](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/unusual-job-titles/): It's a trend that's being gaining momentum for the last few years and doesn't seem set to stop any time soon; people with unusual job titles.
- [Global Business Card etiquette](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/global-business-card-etiquette/): Global Business Card etiquette can vary greatly, and for anyone who travels internationally for work, it's worth knowing cultural business traditions.
- [Get the best out of your print with our handy support guides](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/get-the-best-out-of-your-print/): Printing business cards, leaflets or posters? Get the best out of your print and "wow" your audience with these handy free support guides.
- [How to print your own cookbook](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/print-your-own-cookbook/): It's about time you mark your skill in the kitchen on paper; why not print your own cookbook and share your time honoured favourites with others?
- [Christmas at Solopress - celebrating as a team](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-at-solopress/): Over the last week, we've been celebrating Christmas at Solopress, and the festivities have brought us together as a team at this important time of year!
- [Rethinking Packaging: Usefulness And Style](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/rethinking-packaging/): More consumers are shopping on the Internet now than ever before, and as online shopping becomes prevalent, brands are rethinking packaging.
- [Print in the trenches - the role of our industry in WW1](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-in-the-trenches/): During the centennial of the WW1, we take a look at the impact printers made and the challenges they faced, showing off examples of print in the trenches.
- [Marketing your gift basket business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-your-gift-basket-business/): There's still time for Christmas shopping, and with a few fresh ideas for marketing your gift basket business, you'll reach a wider audience for your wares!
- [Do you understand these emoji meanings?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/emoji-meanings/): Emojis have been the talk of the web lately, but what do they all mean? Instantly recognisable and often misinterpreted; check your emoji knowledge.
- [Tips for designing your own roller banner](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/designing-your-own-roller-banner/): Keen to try your hand at designing your own roller banner? Check out our handy guide and make it easy with these useful ideas.
- [Dementia-friendly print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/dementia-friendly-print/): With dementia friendly print, maintaining a good quality of life with independence and dignity is possible!
- [Insanely awesome high tech print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/high-tech-print/): Want something "more" to make an impression on your customers? High tech print may offer many opportunities in this regard.
- [Awesome fonts for the health and fitness industry](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/fonts-for-the-health-and-fitness-industry/): Creating branding for a gym? If you're seeking inspiration in choosing fonts for the health and fitness industry, look no further.
- [Illustrator video tutorial - how to make an isometric cube pattern](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/isometric-cube-pattern/): In this easy to follow three-minute video tutorial, we'll teach you how to make an isometric cube pattern using Adobe Illustrator.
- [The scoop on printing with recycled paper](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/printing-with-recycled-paper/): At Solopress, we're proud of participating in several eco-initiatives, especially printing with recycled paper. But what does that really mean?
- [10 more brutally honest brand slogans](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-more-brutally-honest-brand-slogans/): Previously featured in our blog, Honest Slogans is a brutally funny website that reimagines what brand slogans would say if they were a little more honest.
- [Star Wars and other 3D papercraft masks by Steve Wintercroft](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/star-wars-3d-papercraft-masks-by-steve-wintercroft/): British designer Steve Wintercroft shows you how to create cool 3D papercraft masks, like a Star Wars Stormtrooper helmet, from recycled cardboard boxes.
- [Simple tips for great letterhead design](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/great-letterhead-design/): Some moments just call for print. When you need to make formal contact with a business associate or client, great letterhead design is essential.
- [Insanely awesome video game posters by Dylan West](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/awesome-video-game-posters-by-dylan-west/): These awesome video game posters by Dylan West would enliven the den of any Nintendo, PlayStation or Xbox gamer.
- [Top 10 horror movie posters of all time](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/top-10-horror-movie-posters-of-all-time/): To help get you in the Halloween mood, Solopress proudly present our favourite horror movie posters. Turn down the lights and prepared to be scared!
- [How To Host A Rocky Horror Dinner Party](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/rocky-horror-dinner-party/): Fun ideas for a brilliant Halloween Rocky Horror Dinner Party, with no toast and hot dogs on the menu!
- [Video Tutorial: How To Make Text Look Handwritten](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/make-text-look-handwritten/): Learn how to make text look handwritten within an image with this handy Adobe Illustrator tutorial.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a rustic eco wedding invitation](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/design-wedding-invitation/): Learn how to design this Rustic Eco Themed Wedding Invitation in Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow tutorial.
- [Creative ways to say thank you after your wedding day](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/creative-ways-to-say-thank-you-after-your-wedding-day/): There are many ways to say thank you to your wedding guests using printed cards or even tags. From the unique to the classic, explore and get creative!
- [Insanely awesome Star Wars posters by Eric Tan](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/awesome-star-wars-posters-by-eric-tan/): Eric Tan, a creative at Disney Consumer Products and self-proclaimed beach bum, has produced these awesome Star Wars posters for the original movie trilogy.
- [Creative and stylish burger packaging](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/creative-and-stylish-burger-packaging/): In honour of National Burger Day, we're taking a look at some of the most creative and stylish burger packaging that's been crafted by innovative designers.
- [The skinny Pikachu theory](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/skinny-pikachu-theory/): The Poke-verse has expanded, but our favourite, yellow mouse Pokemon has not. In honour of Video Games Day, we analyse the Skinny Pikachu Theory.
- [Mums Gone Mobile - Marketing Your Mobile Beauty Business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/mobile-beauty-business/): Are you thinking of starting your own mobile beauty business whilst raising a family? Here's some helpful hints and tips to kick start your marketing.
- [Roller Derby Marketing: Spread The Word About Your Team](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/roller-derby-marketing/): Simple and effective like a shoulder check to your opponent! Roller derby marketing for your team can be easy and affordable with these tips.
- [Five fabulous custom-shaped Business Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/custom-shaped-business-cards/): Fresh and original ways to make your first impressions count. Dare to be different, consider shaping your future with custom-shaped Business Cards.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a baby shower invitation](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-baby-shower-invitation/): Learn how to create a stunning baby shower party invitation for a girl or boy in our latest Adobe Photoshop design video tutorial. It's child's play!
- [Marketing your dog grooming business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/dog-grooming/): It can be a "ruff" task! Set yourself apart from the competition with these tips for marketing your dog grooming business.
- [10 minimalist cocktail drink posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/minimalist-cocktail-drink-posters/): If his brilliant minimalist cocktail drink posters are anything to go by, it must permanently be Pimm’s O’Clock at Nick Barclay's design studio!
- [Britain’s Northern Soul captured in print by Solopress](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/britains-northern-soul-captured-in-print/): Northern Soul Art.com’s Peter Doyle reveals why Solopress are always on the right track when it comes to printing Neil Thompson's soulful art work…
- [How to design a geometric pattern in Adobe Illustrator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-geometric-pattern/): Learn how to create a cool and sharp geometric pattern using Adobe Illustrator in our latest Flat Design video tutorial. It's easy peasy!
- [Top modern display stands by world leaders](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/top-modern-display-stand/): Want to see how world leaders showcase their business at exhibitions? These modern display stands are full of impact, creative design and inspiration.
- [Insanely awesome street art by JPS](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/insanely-awesome-street-art-jps/): Born and bred in Weston-Super-Mare, Jamie Paul Scanlon (aka JPS) is more than just your average street artist, as these brilliant works of street art show…
- [Graduation cake designs to celebrate great GCSEs!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/graduation-cake-designs/): Did you get great GCSE results today? Perhaps you'll get to celebrate with a treat like these gorgeous graduation cake designs!
- [Essential marketing tips for gardeners](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-tips-for-gardeners/): As a professional gardener, you love to spend time outdoors. But how is your business is growing? Don't miss these simple marketing tips for gardeners.
- [How to design gardening Business Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-gardener-business-card/): Create gardening Business Cards which reflect your services with our free template. Follow our video and step-by-step tutorial on Adobe Photoshop.
- [Cool Coffee Cups - Rebranding, Packaging & Design](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/cool-coffee-cups-design-rebranding/): Cool coffee cups - designs, rebranding and packaging from top industry designers. Downloadable templates for your own coffee shop and inspirational ideas.
- [A series of politically incorrect marketing campaigns](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/politically-incorrect-campaigns/): Check out these politically incorrect marketing campaigns from the past from minimum wage Barbie to a bound and gagged Lewis Hamilton!
- [How to be an eco-friendly graphic designer](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/eco-friendly-graphic-designer/): "Think green" when it comes to more than just selecting Pantone colours. Follow this simple advice to become an eco-friendly graphic designer.
- [10 best ever fracking protest posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/best-ever-fracking-protest-posters/): As fracking for oil and gas continues to split public opinion in the UK, we reveal the best protest posters ever created by the anti-fracking campaigners.
- [Light And Shadow Black And White Photography By Rupert Vandervell](https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/light-and-shadow-black-and-white/): Striking light and shadow, black and white photography by digital photographer Rupert Vandervall focuses on strong angles, concrete and people.
- [5 things you might not know about Helvetica](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/5-things-you-might-not-know-about-helvetica/): For the first episode in our new series of short films about typography and different typefaces, Solopress are celebrating the ubiquitous Helvetica font.
- [10 epic business logo fails - what were you thinking?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/business-logo-fails/): What not to have: logo fails. From plain-right rude to face-palm level, terribly designed business logos. Hidden innuendoes and phallic-like icons.
- [PEZ artwork 'Distroys' Disney, The Simpsons and other cartoons](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/pez-artwork-distroy/): Check out the following graphic design sketches from PEZ Artwork: they destroy Disney, South Park, Super Mario Brothers and more with just paper and pen.
- [Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles poster sparks 9/11 controversy](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-poster-sparks-9-11-controversy/): Due to perceived 9/11 likeness, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles poster gets pulled by the movie studio responsible for posting it up on Twitter and Facebook.
- [Tips for creating outstanding roller banners](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/outstanding-roller-banners/): Trade show season is near, and savvy businesses are preparing. Here are a few tips for creating great roller banners that will get your company noticed.
- [Stand out quirky exhibition stands and booths](https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/quirky-booths/): Quirky exhibition stands and booth ideas - from Cadburys to Audi and to Hermes. Original exhibition booths to inspire you at your up and coming exhibit.
- [Rock star marketing - how to promote your band](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/rock-star-marketing/): Here are a few ideas for rock star marketing, along with examples of musicians who are "doing it right" despite the challenges the industry is experiencing.
- [Toilet paper roll art by Junior Fritz Jacquet](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/toilet-paper-roll-art-by-junior-fritz-jacquet/): It was only a matter of time before the unassuming roll of toilet paper became the medium of choice for a paper artist, but are the results bog standard?
- [Over a decade of marketing - the Commonwealth Games](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/commonwealth-games/): Let the games begin! As Glasgow prepares for 11 days of sporting history, we take a look at its marketing history; past and present.
- [Photoshop video tutorial - how to design a funeral order of service booklet](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-funeral-order-of-service-booklet/): Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Funeral Order of Service using Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.
- [Comic shop marketing tips](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/comic-shop-marketing/): Despite the recent increase in popularity, comic shop marketing needs to be more deliberate than ever, in order to be truly successful.
- [Create your own paper craft wedding decorations](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/paper-craft-decorations/): Beautiful wedding paper craft inspiration: get inspired and learn how to create wedding garlands, flowers and cake toppers out of paper with these top tips.
- [6 clever business signs](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/6-clever-business-signs/): Whether they're eye catching for their beautiful design or witty slogans, these business signs demand to be noticed.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a letterhead](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-letterhead/): Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Letterhead using Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.
- [Amazing examples of bird's eye view photography](https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/amazing-birds-eye-view-photos/): Amazing examples of bird's eye view photos from around the world and scroll to bottom of page for top tips when capturing your own. Venice, Mexico and more.
- [Fat fictional heroes by graphic designer Alex Solis](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/fat-fictional-heroes/): Graphic Designer Alex Solis uses his creative powers to create characters like Bat Man, Snow White and Yoda into a fat series of the 'Famous Chunkies'.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a roller banner](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-roller-banner/): Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Roller Banner using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a Poster](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-poster/): Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Poster using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a wedding invitation](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/wedding-invitation-photoshop-design-video-tutorial/): Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Wedding Invitation using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.
- [New Upgrade For HP Indigo Series](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/new-upgrade-hps-indigo/): HP unveil a new upgrade to their Indigo series with a new closed-loop colour control system, special effects and more to upgraded WS6800 & 7800 printers.
- [Veggie printer ink - kind to the earth](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/veggie-printer-eco-ink/): Quality printing doesn't have to cost the earth with high-tech, vegetable based eco inks. Solopress exclusively uses eco ink for all your printing needs.
- [Top 5 Father Of The Bride Speeches](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/top-5-father-of-the-brides-speeches/): Fathers: check out these amazing father-of-the-bride speeches to inspire your own. Take inspiration from this lot and wow the wedding guests.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a brochure or booklet](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/brochure-design-photoshop-video-tutorial/): Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a brochure using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.
- [Hi-Tec Hiking Boots Tried & Tested In Wetlands Walk](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/hi-tec-tried-tested-hiking-boots/): Tried and tested Hi-Tec hiking boots by Solopress' team. See our results and where we took the boots on their maiden walk along the Blackwater Estuary.
- [5 insanely awesome 3D paper dioramas of classic videogames](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/3d-paper-dioramas-of-classic-videogames/): Paper artist Wuppes from Luxembourg is going back in time to recreate classic videogames like Super Mario World and Zelda as amazing 3D paper dioramas.
- [The LEGO Minifig character that doubles as your business card](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/lego-minifig-character-doubles-business-card/): All of us think we have the world’s coolest-looking Business Card, but the LEGO company execs have a card up their sleeves that trumps everybody’s efforts!
- [Famous cartoon characters' anatomy](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/famous-cartoon-characters-anatomy/): Michael Paulus draws famous cartoon characters from our childhoods and reveals their anatomy underneath. Pikachu, Betty Boop, Tweety, Blossom and more.
- [32 World Cup Posters By Brazilian Artist Cristiano Siqueira](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/32-world-cup-posters-brazilian-artist-cristiano-siqueira/): ESPN commissioned Brazilian artist and graphic designer Cristiano Siqueira to create these amazing 2014 FIFA World Cup posters.
- [Photoshop video tutorials - how to design a flyer or leaflet](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/flyer-design-photoshop-video-tutorial/): Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a flyer or leaflet using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.
- [McDonald’s World Cup Packaging: Want Fries With App?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/mcdonalds-world-cup-2014-fries-packaging-app/): McDonald’s kick off their World Cup 2014 campaign with an augmented reality mobile app that plays a virtual football game on their new fries packaging.
- [Offset lithographic printing - how it works video guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/offset-lithographic-printing/): Solopress presents our ‘How It Works’ video guide to Offset Lithographic Printing…
- [The business card that looks like an iPhone](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-card-looks-like-iphone/): An unnamed Apple software engineer has commissioned this ultra-cool business card that’s actually made from a real iPhone screen!
- [Eco friendly fonts - save ink with these typefaces](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/eco-friendly-font/): Save money and Ink with these eco-friendly font options for printing. Ryman Eco and EcoFont software will reduce your ink costs, and help the environment!
- [Font of the day - Risotto Script](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/font-day-risotto-script/): Looking for the best font to liven up your Restaurant Specials Board or a whimsical script typeface to brighten your Menu? Try Risotto Script!
- [Wall’s ice cream & lollies - 5 yummy vintage posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/walls-ice-cream-vintage-posters/): Take a look at these deliciously retro posters and print ads for Wall’s ice cream and lollies from the 1950s to 1990s.
- [miniBIGS: Pop Culture Custom Lego Mini-Figures!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/minibigs-custom-pad-printed-lego-mini-figures/): MiniBiGS make big fun with little pieces! Innovative US based custom Lego Minifig sellers take the world by storm with these little pad-printed wonders.
- [Think In Colour Book Cover Changes Colour When You Touch It](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/think-in-colour-book-cover-changes-colour-when-touched/): Belgian graphic designer Hugo Puttaert, founder of the design studio Visionandfactory in Brussels, urges all of us to Think in Colour in his latest book.
- [32 memorable pop culture characters go minimalist](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/minimalist-pop-culture-character-illustrations/): The Instagram account of Hey, a design studio in Barcelona, is featuring a new minimalist illustration of famous pop culture characters every day.
- [The Design Deck - graphic design playing cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/the-design-deck-playing-cards/): A pack of playing cards and a graphic design textbook all rolled into one, The Design Deck is a fun way to learn about Graphic Design.
- [10 ways to make money during the World Cup](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/world-cup-ways-to-make-money/): Forget about golden balls and golden boots, the World Cup is a golden opportunity for your business to make money this summer.
- [15 seriously awesome alternative book covers](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/15-awesome-alternative-book-covers/): The best alternative book covers from talented designers and artists around the web! From Origin of Species to Dune and Misery, check it out!
- [Font of the day - Castledown](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/font-of-the-day-castledown/): Originally commissioned as a bespoke, dyslexic-friendly typeface for Castledown Primary School in Hastings, this font could now win a Design Museum award.
- [Camera Cafe encapsulated posters printed by Solopress](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/camera-cafe-encapsulated-posters-printed-by-solopress/): A camera store, gallery and coffee shop all rolled into one, Camera Cafe in London printed these waterproof encapsulated posters for their pavement A-board.
- [10 retro Star Wars movie posters from around the world](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/retro-star-wars-movie-posters/): Even a Master Jedi could have missed some of these retro, original trilogy Star Wars movie posters from a galaxy and time that’s now far, far away.
- [3D printed Oreo cookies - a tasty treat for tweets](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/oreo-cookies/): Custom Twitter vending machine makes 3D printed Oreo Cookies for the attendees at SXSW Interactive Festival in Austin, Texas.
- [10 inspiring restaurant menu design ideas](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/10-inspiring-takeaway-restaurant-menu-ideas/): Looking for menu design ideas? Whatever type of restaurant or takeaway you have, an eye-catching menu is essential. See our top 10 ideas.
- [Minecraft Papercraft Studio app brings your computer creations to life](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/minecraft-papercraft-studio-app/): Officially endorsed by Mojang, 57Digital’s Minecraft Papercraft Studio App is a fun way to turn your virtual creations into real 3D paper models.
- [10 amazing cake designs](https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/10-amazing-cake-designs/): Some of our favourite cake designs from around the world. From Lego to Minecraft, including ace of cakes and choccywoccydoodah!
- [Beautiful wedding seating plan & order of service printing by Solopress](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/beautiful-wedding-invites-order-service-courtesy-solopress-printing/): We've had some interesting wedding stationary over the last few months, far shy of the traditional - but these handouts are just gorgeous.
- [How to design and print a school prospectus](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/school-prospectus-brochure-printing/): School Prospectus Brochure Printing - Do first impressions really count? Well, they definitely do when it comes to school prospectuses.
- [Star Wars papercraft by South Korean toy designers Momot](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/star-wars-papercraft-toys-by-momot/): Momot, the paper toy specialists from Seoul in South Korea, have launched a new range of Star Wars papercraft toys.
- [DHL's Clever Print Packaging Advertisement Trolls Rivals UPS & TNT](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/dhl-tricks-rivals-advertising-clever-print-trick/): DHL's hilarious marketing troll, consists of tricking rivals TNT and UPS to parade large yellow boxes with "DHL is Faster" around city centres.
- [Apple Macintosh - best ever print ads](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/apple-macintosh-best-ever-print-ads/): With Macintosh fans celebrating today’s 30th anniversary of Apple’s groundbreaking computer, Solopress fondly look back at the Mac’s best ever print ads.
- [The world’s most advanced paper airplane](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/worlds-most-advanced-paper-airplane/): Shai Goitein’s smartphone-controlled paper airplane has raised the sky high sum of $1.1 million on Kickstarter!
- [Secret Paradise holiday brochure - your Maldives adventure starts here](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/secret-paradise-maldives-holiday-brochure/): There’s no secret about the paradise of experiencing a Maldives adventure, thanks to the holiday brochure printing services of Solopress.
- [Tutorial - 3D pixel heart cards for Valentine’s Day](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/solopress-tutorial-3d-pixel-heart-cards-for-valentines-day/): Check out these amazing 3D Pixel Heart Cards for Valentines Day. Guaranteed to be a hit with Retro gamers & Minecrafters!
- [Adobe Photoshop CC Gets 3D Printing Update](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/adobe-photoshop-cc-gets-3d-printing-update/): Adobe adds exciting new 3D printing capabilities to today’s Photoshop CC update. Now you can prep print-ready 3D models in Adobe's flagship imaging toolbox.
- [7 of the best parallax websites](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/7-best-parallax-websites/): Parallax websites are a great, interactive way to tell a story or display multiple items in a particular order without the user having to leave the page.
- [18 tremendously tasty pop culture cupcake designs](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/tremendously-tasty-pop-culture-cupcake-designs/): Making cupcakes is a glorious mix of baking and design. That’s why we are such big fans of these little sugar hits in the Solopress office!
- [30 scrumptious marketing ideas for your cupcake business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/scrumptious-cupcake-business-marketing-ideas/): Starting up your own cupcake business is a fun way to bring in a little extra cash. But in such a competitive market how can you stand out from the crowd?
- [New Anti-Smoking Advertising Campaign Is Another Shocker](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/new-anti-smoking-advertising-campaign-is-another-shocker/): NHS Smokefree Health Harms advertising campaign highlights the toxic effect of smoking on the heart, brain and lungs. And it’s not a pretty sight.
- [Amazing papercraft dinosaur optical illusion - you must watch this video!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/amazing-dinosaur-optical-illusion/): Optical illusionist Brusspup is back with another amazing visual trick. This time you’ll swear this papercraft T-Rex dinosaur is looking directly at YOU!
- [Best panto posters of 2013](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/best-panto-posters-2013/): Pantomime season is in full swing at a theatre near you right now. But which of these showbiz productions also boasts one of the best panto posters of 2013?
- [Who is master of the poster?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/master-of-the-poster-exhibition/): Master of the Poster Tom Eckersley is to be celebrated in a new London College of Communication exhibition that marks the centenary of his birth…
- [Lawrence of Arabia: Top 10 Movie Posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/lawrence-of-arabia-top-10-movie-posters/): As a tribute to legendary actor Peter O’Toole, Solopress take a look at the movie posters inspired by his most famous role, Lawrence of Arabia…
- [Customer story - Jimmy Jules London](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-spotlight-jimmy-jules-london/): Making the right impression at Jimmy Jules London is paramount. That’s why choosing Solopress to print their jewellery stationery was an excellent choice.
- [Hypnotherapy business cards subconsciously impress clients](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/hypnotherapy-business-cards-subconsciously-impress-clients/): Hypnotist Alex Buxton of The Compass Tree tells us why people are entranced by his new hypnotherapy business cards printed by Solopress.
- [5 tips for designing an event brochure](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/5-tips-designing-event-brochure/): The design of your Event Brochure should combine equal elements of eye catching design and content. Here's some tips on how to create the perfect brochure!
- [Are these the 50 best logos ever designed?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/50-best-logos-ever-designed/): Featuring the likes of McDonald's and Nike, Computer Arts magazine have just published a new design book revealing the 50 best logos ever made.
- [Flat design - HD minimal Pokémon wallpapers and posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/flat-design-hd-minimal-pokemon-wallpapers-posters/): These fantastic Pokémon Flat Designs would look great as your mobile device's wallpaper background OR as a kid's bedroom poster!
- [How to promote your Triathlon sporting event](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/promote-triathlon-sporting-event/): With the success of the 2012 London Olympics, Britain's sporting confidence has soared, boosting interest in local and national sporting events.
- [Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate packaging gets new look](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/cadbury-dairy-milk-chocolate-packaging-gets-new-look/): Before you rip open the packaging in your haste for a chocolate hit, take another look at the Cadbury Dairy Milk bar in your hand. It’s subtlety changed.
- [Gifpop will turn your GIFs into animated Business Cards](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/gifpop-turns-gifs-into-animated-business-cards/): Gifpop is a new Kickstarter project that lets you create animated Business Cards made from GIFs using lenticular printing magic
- [Free Fonts - Popular Free Fonts for Commercial Use](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/free-fonts-popular-free-fonts-commercial-use/): Free Fonts for commercial use are hard to come by - check out this guide on how to get free fonts, and use them for your design projects!
- [A fine selection of ideas - printing restaurant menus](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/printing-restaurant-menus/): No two restaurants are the same; therefore, no two ‘dining experiences’ are. Therein lies the key to achieving successful restaurant menu design and print!
- [Photoshop image manipulation - is it a good or bad thing?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/photoshop-image-manipulation-good-or-bad-thing/): In the latest twist to the controversy over image manipulation, a video briefly re-surfaced on YouTube last week to remind us all of the power of Photoshop.
- [3D Printing: Thor's Hammer Mjolnir](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/3d-printing-thors-hammer-mjolnir/): Thor 2: The Dark World is in Cinemas as of today - and to celebrate the re-appearance of Thor, here's some 3D printed Mjolnir's from hardcore Thor fans.
- [Print Finishing Techniques - Be in the Know](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/finishing-techniques/): Whilst the aesthetics of printed material are undoubtedly important, the touch and feel of a piece of work can make a huge difference on the impact it has!
- [Which font styles mean business?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/considerations-when-choosing-font-styles/): Have you ever spent hours trying to configure the best font style for your print work? Here are some handy tips for choosing a font!
- [Top scoring marketing ideas for football clubs](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/local-football-club-marketing-ideas/): What are the best ways to promote your local football club in business and on the pitch? Find out in our marketing guide, packed with top tips and ideas...
- [10 best ever uses of Helvetica](https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/best-ever-uses-of-helvetica-font/): Love it or hate it, the Helvetica font is omnipresent these days. But people are still finding ways to breathe new life into this famous Swiss typeface.
- [Meganews launch world’s first print-on-demand newsstand](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/meganews-launch-the-worlds-first-print-on-demand-newsstand/): Combining an innovative use of print and web technology, the world’s first automatic magazine newsstand is already up and running in Stockholm, Sweden.
- [Print Advertising: Innovative posters launch new UK youth charity](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/print-advertising-innovative-posters-launch-new-uk-youth-charity/): Our Top 5 round-up of today's cool stuff for web and print designers includes Saatchi's new UK poster advertising campaign for the MindFull youth charity.
- [Green Printing that doesn’t cost the Earth](https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/green-printing/): In celebration of Recycle Week, show your support for the environment AND make a massive saving by printing at Solopress.
- [Personality test - what kind of designer are you?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/personality-test-what-kind-of-designer-are-you/): Our Top 5 round-up of today's cool stuff for graphic designers includes a fun personality test and IBM's innovative billboard ads including 8 bit heroes!
- [Solopress invest £110K in new Autobond laminator](https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-buy-new-autobond-laminator/): Solopress.com are pleased to announce the addition of a new Autobond Mini 76 TPHS Laminator to our growing range of high quality print finishing machinery.
- [Beermat characters - the humble coaster gets a design makeover](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/beermat-characters/): Inkygoodness, the experts in finding new and exciting talent in illustration and lowbrow art, have utilised beermats in their latest project.
- [Copycat packaging - have you been fooled?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/copycat-packaging/): Which? finds that UK shoppers are annoyed by imitation products. Solopress ask if you’ve ever been misled by copycat packaging.
- [The Hobbit: 5 mighty minimalist posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/hobbit-mimimalist-posters/): Solopress counts down their 5 top Hobbit minimalist posters in excitement for the release of the new film.
- [David Bowie: 5 most expensive prints and posters at V&A exhibition](https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/david-bowie-5-most-expensive-prints-and-posters-at-victoria-and-albert-museum-exhibition/): With over 300 items chronicling his extraordinary career; ‘David Bowie is’ has become the hottest exhibition in London. Solopress investigates the most expensive prints.
- [10 classic Guinness posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/st-patricks-day-10-classic-guinness-posters/): On St. Patrick’s Day, a pint of Guinness is customary. Check out these retro Guinness posters that got people into Guinness throughout the ages.
- [Put our printing to the test - request a FREE sample pack today!](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/free-sample-pack-today/): Solopress have everything you need to promote your business and instantly impress your customers. Backed by our low prices and FREE next day delivery.
- [Inkless Printing - An Explanation Of Direct Thermal Print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/direct-thermal-print/): Direct thermal printing is a print method used by most retailers that does not require the use of ink. Read on to learn more about the processes involved...
- [80 Years of Monaco Grand Prix Posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/80-years-of-monaco-grand-prix-posters/): Ever since the first Monaco Grand Prix in 1929, drivers and racing fans the world over have been captivated by this exhilarating street race.
- [Thermographic printing - the art of thermography](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/thermographic-printing/): Thermographic printing is a fantastic printing technique, commonly used on greeting cards, wedding invitations where a natural feel embossing is needed.
- [The Future of Print Finishing by Duplo International's Marc Legge](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-future-of-print-finishing-by-duplo-internationals-marc-legge/): Solopress talks with print finishing experts Duplo International about their company and future print business predictions…
- [Print Supplies future trends by Mayday Graphic Products](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-supplies-future-trends-by-mayday-graphic-products/): In the first of our new series of behind-the-scenes videos about the printing industry, Solopress.com talks with print supplier Mayday Graphics.
- [Understanding Giclée printing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/understanding-giclee-printing/): Learn about Giclée printing whether you’re an artist that wants to reproduce a piece of original artwork or a buyer of fine art prints.
- [Design insight - 10 insanely great Halo video game posters](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/design-insight-10-insanely-great-halo-video-game-posters/): Forget about the latest James Bond film, Halo 4 on Xbox 360 is poised to be THE biggest entertainment premiere of the year to date.
- [Solopress staff moustache up for Movember men’s health charity](https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-staff-moustache-up-for-movember-mens-health-charity/): Follow Solopress on Instagram for your chance to win 10 Awesome Moustache Movies every week during November 2012.
- [The most shocking anti-smoking posters ever made](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/design-insight-the-most-shocking-anti-smoking-posters-ever-made/): Stoptober: How do I stop smoking? Just take a look at these terrifying anti-smoking campaign posters from around the world...
- [5 reasons why Solopress love digital print](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/5-reasons-why-solopress-love-digital-print/): While the basics of lithographic printing has changed very little for over a century, there’s been a total transformation in the way digital print works.
- [Solopress Printing Spotlight : Secret Paradise Spa](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/solopress-printing-spotlight-secret-paradise-london-spa/): Secret Paradise’s aromatic fruit based spa treatments are heavenly. Spa director Nadia reveals why she’s also in paradise when it comes to Solopress!
- [Dragon’s Den on TV - top 5 most successful businesses](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/dragons-den-on-tv-top-5-most-successful-businesses/): Dragon’s Den, Britain’s second favourite business TV programme, returned to our screens last night. But what have been the show’s successes over the years?
- [How to avoid spelling mistakes in your printing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-avoid-spelling-mistakes-in-your-printing/): With millions of pages printed by Solopress.com every year, it’s fair to say we’ve seen some spectacular spelling mistakes in our time
- [Customer story - Jo Downs Handmade Glass](https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/solopress-printing-spotlight-jo-downs-handmade-glass/): Jo Downs is one of the world’s leading fused glass designers. Her ethos is perfectly complimented by Solopress.com’s meticulously crafted printing.
- [Top 10 Special Offer Ideas For Your Business](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/top-10-special-offer-ideas-for-your-business/): How can you generate more interest in the fantastic products and services that your company provides? Special offers could be the answer!
- [B2B printing - free delivery that's discreet](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/b2b-printing-and-delivery-service-london/): With 15 unbranded white vans, Solopress discreetly deliver to businesses and homes all over London and the surrounding areas throughout the day.
- [Club posters - creative design examples and tips](https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/club-posters-examples-tips-creative-design/): Solopress.com big up some of the wicked club posters we’ve printed for leading Essex nightclub Mansion…
- [Poster printing for nursery schools - 7 essential marketing tips](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/nursery-school-poster-printing-marketing-tips/): How can you make YOUR nursery school stand out from the competition? Posters are a fantastic way to publicise your nursery school – for very minimal fuss and cost.
- [Printing buyers guide](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printing-buyers-guide/): Baffled by all the choices and technical terms when you need your business cards, flyers, leaflets, brochures, posters or professionally printed?
- [Glossary of Printing Terms](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/glossary-of-printing-terms/): What is a Flyer? What's the difference between a Flyer and a Leaflet? Confused? Check out Solopress' Glossary of Printing Terms...
- [Invitation Checklist - What To Put On Your Event Invitation](https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/checklist-event-invitation/): Event invitations are as important as the event itself. You have spent months planning the perfect event, but what is the use in all that planning if your invitations don't meet the cut?
- [Spot colour printing vs. CMYK printing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/spot-colour-vs-cmyk-process/): Spot Colour Printing uses a single (different) ink for each colour used, whereas the CMYK method uses only four colours: cyan, magenta, yellow and black.
- [Don’t drop the door drops - the value of printed direct marketing](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/door-drop-marketing/): Printed and online Direct Marketing without a call-to-action is a bit like a joke without a punch- line, or a thriller without a climax.
- [Successful gym and leisure centre marketing - how does it all work out?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/gym-marketing/): During the credit crunch, gym memberships were sacrificed for sky boxes or foldaway exercise bikes as everyone, everywhere decided to economise
- [11 great uses for swing tags](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/swing-tags/): A swing tag can save the day when a sticky label just won’t do, thereby making swing tags the ideal labelling solution.
- [Using Postcards As A Marketing Tool](https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/postcard-marketing/): For most people a postcard is something that you send when on holiday, however many businesses are realising the value of postcards as a marketing tool.
- [What is the difference between digital printing and lithographic printing?](https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/difference-between-digital-and-lithographic-printing/): How do you know which one is best for you and your business? We have tried to explain the difference between the two most common processes.

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## Pages

- [Home](https://www.solopress.com/blog/): Visit our blog for everything you need to know about print. Whether it's designing artwork, choosing products or using your finished articles, we've got it covered.

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# Detailed Content


## Posts

> Solopress designed and printed a souvenir programme for Carrot Productions’ The Snowman with Live Orchestra, including an activity booklet.

- Published: 2025-07-10
- Modified: 2025-07-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/solopress-x-carrot-productions-all-round-great-performance/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Carrot Productions is no ordinary events company. Best known for orchestral stage performances like The Snowman, Wallace & Gromit and The Bear and the Piano, they specialise in live events that blend classical music with storytelling. These shows celebrate well-loved family franchises, working with some of the UK’s most iconic storytellers and creative partners. Touring globally, their productions capture imaginations through carefully staged visuals and world-class musicianship. Through collaborations with Aardman Animation, Penguin Books and other major rights holders, Carrot Productions delivers entertainment that’s as thoughtful as it is engaging. That ethos extends to the materials supporting their shows, from printed programmes to promotional literature. The designs have to work hard to unify multiple voices, visual identities and brand guidelines. Design and print with performance in mind Solopress printed and designed the souvenir programme for The Snowman with Live Orchestra, a flagship production in Carrot’s touring calendar. The programme not only showcased the performance itself but also included content from other Carrot shows featuring well-known IPs, including Wallace & Gromit, The Bear and the Piano, and The Snowman and the Snowdog. An eight-page pull-out activity booklet was also designed and printed as part of the finished piece. Multiple franchises were represented within the programme, each carrying its own visual language and licensing requirements. The design needed to bring everything together under a cohesive, recognisable style. Working through our in-house design service, we helped Carrot refresh their print materials to reflect their values of live performance, storytelling and family entertainment while...

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> Solopress is supporting Lazydays Festival 2025 with top-tier print. Discover the line-up and how print helps brings the event to life.

- Published: 2025-07-08
- Modified: 2025-07-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/solopress-x-lazydays-festival-2025-effective-event-print/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Charity & Community, Print Inspiration

As festival season hits its stride, Southend's own Lazydays Festival returns to Priory Park this July. The weekend promises live music, family fun and summer celebration. With a vibrant, accessible atmosphere and something for all ages, it’s fast becoming a fixture of the Southend calendar. This year, Solopress is proud to support the event with a wide range of printed materials designed and produced right here in Southend-on-Sea. With festival season in full swing, it’s also the perfect moment to introduce two new additions to our outdoor event print range: branded Plastic Cups and an enhanced offering of Tyvek® Wristbands. A legendary Lazydays line up Now in its third year, the festival offers a relaxed but lively experience across three days from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 July. The weekend kicks off with performances from Katy B, MistaJam and Judge Jules, with a headline set from Example on Friday night. Saturday and Sunday feature an eclectic mix of indie, soul and alternative performers. Acts include Embrace, Peter Doherty, The Coral, Lightning Seeds, Badly Drawn Boy, Pip Blom and The Milk. The festival closes on Sunday with sets from Norman Jay MBE, Mica Millar, Kitti, Maverick Sabre and Soul II Soul. With multiple stages and entertainment running throughout each day, there’s plenty of opportunity to take in the music, food and atmosphere. Alongside the headline acts, the weekend features an expanded Kids' Area, local food and drink vendors, community stalls, street entertainment, a roller disco and even a dog show. It’s...

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> Solopress supported South Essex College students exhibiting at the D&AD New Blood Awards with Signage, Postcards and Folders.

- Published: 2025-07-03
- Modified: 2025-07-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/new-blood-supporting-south-essex-college-at-the-add-awards/
- Categories: Art & Design, Charity & Community, Exhibitions & Trade Shows

Earlier this year, Solopress welcomed Graphic Design students from South Essex College for a behind-the-scenes look at how design becomes print, which we covered in a previous blog post. The visit offered insight into our production workflows and sparked conversations about how printed materials could help students showcase their work more effectively. As those initial discussions unfolded, a number of practical ideas emerged. While some centred on Business Cards for networking, it became clear that display signage and takeaway print could also play a meaningful role when the students exhibited as part of the D&AD New Blood Awards. Working in collaboration with Course Leader Steve Page, we developed a print package tailored to support the 2025 cohort’s appearance at the awards exhibition to help them present their work professionally and to help them network with potential employers and collaborators. Recognising design talent The D&AD Awards — named after their founding body, Design and Art Direction — are among the most prestigious honours in the global design and advertising industry. Established in 1962, the awards celebrate creative excellence across a wide range of disciplines including branding, illustration, digital design, copywriting and packaging. Within the programme, the New Blood category is dedicated to emerging talent: students, graduates and aspiring creatives taking their first steps into the industry. As well as offering exposure to leading agencies and studios, New Blood provides a platform for showcasing ideas that are bold, original and full of potential. Staying fresh with Foamex signage For the main exhibition...

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- Published: 2025-06-30
- Modified: 2025-06-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/on-the-road-with-dave-day-2025-how-print-helped-unite-the-route/
- Categories: Charity & Community

There are some people whose presence feels larger than life, not just because of what they do, but how they do it. Dave Myers was one of them. Best known as one half of the Hairy Bikers, alongside his friend and co-presenter Si King, Dave brought joy, warmth and humour to millions through their shared love of food, travel and good company. Together, they rode the length and breadth of the UK and beyond, exploring regional recipes, championing community stories and cooking hearty dishes from the saddle of their motorbikes. When Dave died in February 2024, the outpouring of public affection was immediate and heartfelt. Friends, fans and fellow riders wanted to do something meaningful to honour him, not just once, but every year. That’s how Dave Day began — not simply as a memorial, but as a celebration of everything Dave stood for: friendship, generosity, curiosity and the thrill of the open road. Dave Day 2025 riding into its second year The first event in June 2024 saw tens of thousands of bikers travel from London’s iconic Ace Café to Barrow-in-Furness, Dave’s hometown, forming one of the largest motorbike ride-outs the UK has ever seen. At its heart was a deep sense of shared purpose to remember a man who brought people together through simple pleasures and a passion for life. Now in its second year, the 2025 edition built on that spirit, with an even broader programme of events including live music, celebrity football, a raffle to win...

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> How Solopress print, from gig tickets to Shiny Stickers, helped Indie Cult Club shape the look and feel of their Southend music night.

- Published: 2025-06-30
- Modified: 2025-06-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/indie-cult-club-shine-on-with-new-merch/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing, Charity & Community

Two years ago, John Pearman and Nigel Thomas set out to create a live music night that didn’t end right after the encore. Rather than have their audience slip away to find an indie disco after the band had finished, their vision was to have both elements in one venue. Come for the performance, stay for the party. What’s more they felt a strong sense of identity and visual character would help them to inspire a loyal community of indie lovers and gig goers to keep coming back. With that in mind, they founded Indie Cult Club, and made their home at legendary venue Chinnerys in Southend. Over time, the night developed a loyal following and has now hosted performances from The Zutons, Inspiral Carpets, Echobelly, Stereo MCs, Republica, Huey Morgan, Sleeper, Teenage Fanclub and more. But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s track the origins of this alternative music phenomenon. More than just a gig John Pearman of Indie Cult Club When creating a visual identity, the first task was to come up with a logo. After attempting unsuccessfully to come up with something themselves, John and Nigel enlisted the help of designer Isaac Nana, a process they discussed with us last year. Together, they landed on something striking and memorable. The triangle shape resembles the All-Seeing-Eye (or Eye of Providence) symbol. The infamous symbol, which appears in the iconography of a number of nations and religions, has been the focus of many esoteric theories about conspiracies, cabals...

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> Printed gazebos offer branded shelter for events, stalls and festivals. Explore your options and find the right setup for your business.

- Published: 2025-06-23
- Modified: 2025-06-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-gazebos-for-events-what-to-consider-when-choosing-yours/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Gazebos do more than keep the sun and the rain at bay. For event organisers, traders and commercial users, the right gazebo offers both reliable shelter and a flexible way to create a standout branded presence in outdoor settings. From food and music festivals and sporting events to market stalls and garden parties, printed gazebos serve as both signage and structure—supporting your team, attracting footfall or protecting equipment in unpredictable conditions. This guide explores the features that matter: from choosing the right size and frame to understanding anchoring, personalisation options and storage. Whether you're investing in a single branded gazebo or building a kit of event shelters for regular use, we’ll help you make the right call. Types of gazebos for events There’s no single ‘best’ gazebo. The right model depends on how often you use it, how mobile it needs to be, and what kind of events you’re attending. Some users need a printed gazebo they can pop up quickly and pack down just as fast. Others want a structure that becomes part of a permanent or semi-permanent display, with interchangeable panels or side walls for different campaigns. Pop up gazebos Pop up gazebos are designed for hassle free setup and portability. A collapsible frame supports a tensioned fabric canopy, usually polyester or PVC-coated polyester, that can be assembled in minutes without tools. This makes them ideal for market traders, food stalls, and branded stands that need to be up and running quickly on soft ground or hardstanding. Most...

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> Solopress will be sponsoring a unique penguin sculpture as part of Waddle-On-Sea, the public art trail raising funds for Havens Hospices.

- Published: 2025-06-11
- Modified: 2025-06-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-waddle-on-sea-and-havens-hospices/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Solopress News

This summer, the streets of Southend will come alive with penguins. Not the real kind, of course—but an eye-catching colony of sculptures, forming a public art trail called Waddle-On-Sea to raise funds and awareness for Havens Hospices. We're delighted to confirm that Solopress will once again be part of the trail by sponsoring one of these unique creations. This latest event continues our ongoing partnership with Havens Hospices. The trail will feature more than 40 large penguin sculptures, plus dozens of baby penguins decorated by local schools and community groups. Public art event specialist Wild In Art places these sculptures around the city for locals and visitors to discover throughout summer 2025. Proud supporters of Havens Hospices Our involvement with Waddle-On-Sea builds on a longstanding relationship between Solopress and Havens Hospices. As our nominated charity, they benefit not only from fundraising efforts and event sponsorships, but also from the passion and generosity of our team, who regularly take part in challenges and initiatives in aid of the cause. Most recently, colleagues from Solopress entered the Race4Business 2025, a fun run around Chelmsford’s Central Park, bringing together companies from across Essex in support of the hospice. In April, we hosted our Charity Golf Day, which brought together teams of players for a competitive round and raised funds for Havens Hospices. The work behind Waddle-On-Sea Havens Hospices provides free, specialist care for people of all ages who are living with incurable conditions. Their services support not just patients, but also their families,...

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> Solopress is proud to support Havens Hospices as a sponsor of Race4Business 2025, a charity fun run in aid of local palliative care.

- Published: 2025-06-11
- Modified: 2025-06-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-race4business-2025-in-aid-of-havens-hospices/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Solopress News

Solopress is proud to support Havens Hospices as a sponsor of Race4Business 2025, a charity fun run that brings Essex businesses together in aid of local palliative care. Organised by Havens Hospices, the event returns to Chelmsford’s Central and Admirals Parks on Wednesday 2nd July for an day of fundraising, fitness and team spirit. Open to individuals and teams from across the county, Race4Business is a 5km chip-timed run along a flat, accessible route. Whether you walk, jog or run, the focus is on participation, not performance. The finish line leads straight into the event village, where stalls, music and refreshments continue the day's positive spirit into the evening. Havens Hospices cares for babies, children and adults living with complex or incurable conditions across Essex. The charity provides specialist support to manage pain, symptoms and emotional wellbeing, giving families more time together when it matters most. It receives limited government funding, so community fundraising plays a vital role in sustaining this free, essential care. According to Rachel Hawksworth, deputy head of fundraising, Havens Hospices has to raise over £83,000 per week to cover costs. Events like Race4Business are key to that effort, and Solopress is honoured to play a part. Supporting Havens Hospices We selected Havens Hospices as our nominated charity for this year on account of their inspiring work in our community. The Race4Business sponsorship is one of many activities, including the Waddle-on-Sea event, through which we aim to support their work, raise funds and spread awareness. From the...

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> We opened our doors to Graphic Design students from University Centre South Essex, offering them insights into how ideas transform into print.

- Published: 2025-06-11
- Modified: 2025-06-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-welcomes-graphic-design-students-university-centre-south-essex/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Print Inspiration, Solopress News

Solopress recently opened its doors to a group of BA (Hons) Graphic Design students from University Centre South Essex, offering them a practical insight into how design ideas are transformed into printed products. The visit formed part of the college’s continued efforts to connect its learners with the creative industries, and gave students a close-up look at how their studies translate into commercial outcomes. About South Essex Colleges Group and the Graphic Design BA South Essex Colleges Group is a well-established provider of further and higher education with campuses in Southend-on-Sea, Basildon and Thurrock. The institution offers a wide range of academic and vocational programmes, including a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design delivered in partnership with the University of the Arts London. The course encourages experimentation across traditional and digital media, equipping students with the technical, creative and professional skills needed for careers in branding, publishing, advertising and more. Exploring the design-to-print process During their time at Solopress, the group engaged with several departments including Sales, Design, Marketing and Production. The aim was to provide a full picture of how design concepts are developed, refined and ultimately produced at scale. Through informal discussions with team members, students explored the many stages that sit between a creative brief and the delivery of a finished printed item, from branding workshops and layout considerations to client proofs, prepress processes and the challenges of colour accuracy. The tour extended into the factory, where students were able to see live jobs being produced across a...

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> We turn the spotlight Large Format: the people, equipment and processes involved in delivering some of our most visible work.

- Published: 2025-06-04
- Modified: 2025-06-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/meet-the-large-format-team-the-people-and-the-presses-behind-the-big-stuff/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Solopress News

Whether it’s indoor or outdoor Signage, Vinyl Banners, XL promotional Posters or attention-grabbing Roller Banners, the Solopress Large Format department is where the big print gets done. These are products that demand scale, consistency and fast turnaround, often under tight deadlines and at serious volumes. We're turn the spotlight on the people, equipment and processes involved in delivering some of our most visible work. Workflow, software and speed Large format print projects at Solopress begin long before ink meets substrate. Across the department, machines are unified by a shared workflow system, updated annually. The system allows operators to manage jobs efficiently, reduce errors and maintain an impressive on-time dispatch rate. Recent in-house developments using AI have improved the speed of setup even further. By analysing job data and optimising operations automatically, the software helps the team spend less time preparing files and more time printing. With multiple shifts running across the day and night, these time savings add up. Large Format: printing at scale Once a job is prepped, it's assigned to the press that best fits the material and size requirements. For wide roll media—used in Posters, Roller Banners and Vinyl Banners—the department relies on the Agfa Oberon RTR3300. This roll-to-roll press handles material up to 3. 3 metres wide and reproduces strong, vibrant colours on a range of flexible substrates. Its high-speed safety sensors are so sensitive that even a fly can trigger them, shutting off the press. That's why maintaining a bug-free environment has become part of...

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> Essex & Herts Air Ambulance runs a rapid-response service so it's fitting that they were first off the mark to order our new Shiny Stickers

- Published: 2025-05-23
- Modified: 2025-06-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/fast-responders-essex-herts-air-ambulance-places-first-ever-shiny-stickers-order/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Solopress News

Speed matters when lives are on the line. Essex & Herts Air Ambulance operates an advanced, rapid-response service that’s ready to take flight every day of the year. Their helicopters and rapid response vehicles bring hospital-level care directly to the scene of an emergency—often within minutes. So it seems entirely appropriate that they were also first off the mark when it came to trying out our latest product at Solopress: Shiny Stickers. Their order, placed just as the new sticker range launched, featured circular labels with a black design printed on striking mirror gold foil. Supplied on rolls, these stickers were designed to serve a specific and meaningful purpose: to recognise school pupils who complete CPR training with Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. Hearts of Gold Maria Slocombe, Campaign & Design Manager at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance explained why the design was important. “We wanted something simple but striking to give to pupils who take part in our CPR Smart™ school programme. The gold foil makes the sticker feel like a reward—something they can wear with a sense of pride. ” It’s a small but symbolic gesture—one that helps reinforce the importance of CPR training and encourages participants to talk about their experience. And by choosing a reflective, high-impact material, the charity has created a sticker that doesn’t just catch the light, it also carries a clear sense of purpose. “We were pleased to be first to try out this new sticker option from Solopress,” Maria added. “The finished...

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> We look at how shiny stickers can transform your brand, exploring their versatility, aesthetic appeal, and the unique advantages.

- Published: 2025-05-22
- Modified: 2025-06-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-allure-of-shiny-stickers-how-metallic-stickers-can-transform-your-brand/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

In today's visually driven world, the appeal of shiny metallic stickers has captured the imagination of brands looking to stand out in the crowded marketplace. These iridescent products are not just visually striking; they offer a tactile experience that can mesmerise and captivate potential customers. From enhancing product packaging to adding a touch of sophistication to promotional materials, metallic stickers can elevate a brand's image and create a lasting impression. In this article, we will delve into the countless ways these gleaming stickers can transform your brand, exploring their versatility, aesthetic appeal, and the unique advantages they bring to your marketing strategy. Prepare to uncover how a simple sticker can have a dazzling impact on your brand's identity. The Power of Metallic Stickers Metallic stickers hold a new and unique place in the branding toolkit, offering an eye-catching way to grab attention and communicate purpose. Their shimmering surface draws the eye, making them an effective tool for brands wishing to stand out. In this section, we'll explore how these stickers can be a powerful asset in capturing engagement and boosting the all important brand visibility. Captivating Customer Attention This product is uniquely able to captivate a customer as the shiny surface reflects its surroundings, rapidly creating engagement. This will have the highest success rate within in-person shopping, such as retail stores, as competing products will be hidden in the darkness. The tactile aspect of metallic stickers also plays a role in capturing attention. People are often inclined to touch objects...

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> Promotional prints on caps and hats are a powerful way to boost. Join us as we explore how they can elevate your presence.

- Published: 2025-05-21
- Modified: 2025-05-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-promotional-prints-caps-and-hats/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Promotional prints on caps and hats are a powerful way to boost brand visibility and make a lasting impression. These versatile accessories not only serve as practical items but also as mobile advertisements that can reach a wide audience. From company logos to creative designs, the right promotional prints can transform a simple cap or hat into a statement piece that reflects your brand's personality. In this guide, we will delve into the world of promotional prints - caps and hats, providing insights on design choices, material selection, and how to maximise their impact. Join us as we explore how these fashionable items can elevate your brand's presence. Understanding Promotional Prints Defining Promotional Prints - Caps Promotional prints on caps serve as a dynamic tool for brand promotion. These caps are often adorned with company logos, slogans, or unique designs aimed at capturing attention. The purpose is to increase brand recognition by turning wearers into walking billboards. Caps can be customised in various styles, from classic baseball caps to trendy snapbacks, catering to diverse tastes and demographics. The key is to select a design that aligns with your brand's ethos while ensuring it stands out in a crowd. High-quality printing techniques, such as embroidery or screen printing, ensure durability and clarity. By carefully choosing the right promotional prints, a cap can become more than just a fashion accessory; it becomes an integral part of your brand identity. Thus, promotional prints on caps are not just about aesthetics but also about...

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> The Solopress on-time dispatch rate sets a standard few can match. We shine a light on some of the unsung heroes behind our delivery promise.

- Published: 2025-05-19
- Modified: 2025-05-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/meet-the-dispatch-team-the-people-behind-every-fast-turnaround/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Solopress News

Next-day delivery is something we’re proud to offer — but it takes a great deal of organisation, hard work and efficiency to deliver that, day after day. Around one in five of our jobs are next-day dispatch orders, but whatever the deadline, we treat every delivery with the same focus. That commitment relies on a team that works swiftly and consistently to get every order out on time — with an on-time dispatch rate that stays well above 99%. With colleagues covering shifts around the clock to keep things moving, we wanted to shine a light on some of the unsung heroes behind our delivery promise. Keeping pace, every day Dispatch is the final stage in the Solopress process. It’s where print becomes parcels, and orders turn into outbound deliveries. From bulk jobs to last-minute flyers, the Dispatch Team checks, labels, packs and loads every order for collection. This is a high-volume, high-precision operation. Each day, the team handles between 2,500 and 3,000 orders. They prepare anything from 50 to 100 pallets — plus two full lorry loads of items that don’t travel on pallets. At peak, that can total up to 60 tonnes of print in a single shift. Each day, two courier collections and five or six pallet pick-ups take orders across the UK. Timing is critical, but so is accuracy. Every parcel needs to be packaged properly and dispatched without delay. Meet a few of the team We managed to catch a few of the team between...

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> Stanley cups have become a social media sensation. We follow its journey from practical to viral to contemporary classic

- Published: 2025-05-14
- Modified: 2025-05-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/stanley-cups-explained-the-trending-tumbler-thats-full-of-surprises/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

Stanley cups have become a social media sensation—but many are surprised to learn they’re not made by the same Stanley behind the iconic utility knife. The drinkware brand is an entirely separate company, founded in the United States in 1913, and best known for its durable, vacuum-insulated bottles. Originally popular among workers and outdoor enthusiasts, Stanley’s practical stainless-steel flasks quietly endured for decades. But more than 100 years on, the brand has found unexpected fame—propelled into the spotlight by a viral TikTok trend. TikTok and beyond Starting in 2020, Stanley cups began to appear in the hands of social media stars, kickstarting the trend. In 2023 we saw an explosion in the market for Stanley cups as Water-Tok became a viral trend on TikTok. Water-Tok is a divisive phenomenon where primarily American influencers post videos of themselves preparing their daily water. The controversy arose thanks to the outrageous amounts of sugar that some influencers would add. As with many aspects of the internet, enragement sparks engagement, and the trend quickly took root in mainstream culture. All of this, however, led to a lot of screen time for the Stanley cups that TikTokers would use to keep their water cool throughout the day. This high-level of exposure allowed Stanley cups to break out beyond TikTok and become an overwhelming trend. From this point we began to see more and more famous influencers and icons in meaningful relationships with their Stanley cups. Celebs such as, Trixie Mattel, Adele and Trisha Paytas have...

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> Printed Tote Bags are a standout solution that assists you in helping your customer, your business and the environment.

- Published: 2025-05-07
- Modified: 2025-05-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-ultimate-guide-to-promotional-prints-why-tote-bags-are-your-best-bet/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Businesses are constantly seeking effective ways to enhance brand visibility with promotional prints - and tote bags have emerged as a standout solution. These versatile carryalls are not only practical and stylish but also serve as mobile advertisements, reaching a wide audience with every use. Whether you're a small start-up or a well-established company, incorporating tote bags into your marketing strategy can be a game-changer. In this guide, we will delve into the reasons why tote bags are your best bet for promotional prints, exploring their benefits, design possibilities, and how they can elevate your brand presence. Introduction to Promotional Prints Why Choose Tote Bags Tote Bags produced by Solopress for fashion label Latham Street Tote bags have gained popularity as effective tools for promotional prints due to their practicality and widespread appeal. Unlike other promotional items that may be discarded or forgotten, they serve a daily purpose, making them a constant reminder of your brand. Their durability ensures that they are used and seen regularly, enhancing brand recognition and recall. Moreover, tote bags offer a large surface area for creative designs, allowing your brand message to be displayed prominently. They are versatile, catering to diverse audiences across various demographics, from students to professionals. Additionally, as consumers become more environmentally conscious, the reusable nature of tote bags aligns perfectly with sustainable practices, further endearing them to your target audience. By choosing tote bags for your promotional prints, you invest in a marketing strategy that combines utility with visibility, ensuring your...

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> We go through all the ins and outs of Pouch Packaging and what you need to consider if you're thinking of using this versatile solution.

- Published: 2025-04-28
- Modified: 2025-04-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-packaging-a-beginners-guide-to-pouch-packaging/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

In the world of packaging and printing, Pouch Packaging has emerged as a versatile and practical solution for a wide range of products. These flexible containers not only offer convenience and durability but also provide an excellent canvas for creative branding and labelling. From food and beverages to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, pouches have become a popular choice thanks to their lightweight nature and ability to preserve product freshness. In this guide, we explore the types of pouches available, their benefits and how they have transformed the packaging and printing industry. Whether you are a business looking for printed stand-up pouches to enhance your product presentation or simply curious about the evolution of packaging, this deep dive into Pouch Packaging offers valuable insights. Understanding Pouches in Packaging Types of pouches In packaging and printing, pouches come in several forms, each tailored to meet specific needs. Stand-up pouches are perhaps the most popular, offering excellent shelf display and storage efficiency thanks to their gusseted base. Flat pouches, also called pillow pouches, are ideal for single-use items as well as being easy to store and transport. While some pouches in the market include spouts or are designed for high-temperature sterilisation (such as retort pouches), at Solopress we specialise in high-quality printed Stand-Up Pouch Packaging. Each type offers unique benefits to different markets, and selecting the right format enhances both product protection and brand presentation. Benefits of using pouches Pouches offer numerous advantages that have made them a preferred choice in packaging and printing....

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> Stickers and labels are a great way to transform generic packaging, securely seal products, add crucial info and enhance brand appeal

- Published: 2025-04-16
- Modified: 2025-04-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-packaging-labels-a-beginners-guide/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Packaging labels play a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and driving purchasing decisions. Labels are not just for identifying a product; they are a vital part of branding and communication between companies and their customers. With countless options available, from materials to design, understanding the fundamentals of packaging and printing - labels is essential for any business looking to make a lasting impression. This beginner's guide will walk you through the essential aspects food labels, offering practical insights into selecting the right labels that not only enhance the product's appeal but also convey the necessary information clearly and effectively. Introduction to Packaging and Printing Understanding the Basics Packaging and printing - labels are fundamental components in the presentation of any product. Labels serve a dual purpose: attracting customers and providing essential information. A well-designed label can capture the consumer's attention, conveying the brand's identity and values. The choice of material, design, and colour scheme must align with the brand image and target audience. Additionally, labels must comply with industry regulations, ensuring all necessary information is included, such as ingredients, usage instructions, and safety warnings. Understanding these basics is critical for businesses to create labels that stand out on the shelves and engage consumers effectively. By grasping these foundational elements, companies can better navigate the vast array of various label printing options available and make informed decisions that enhance their product's marketability. In doing so, they strengthen their brand presence and build trust with their customers. Importance of Quality Labels...

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> Explore how fonts influence branding, perception and accessibility We look at how global brands use typefaces and how they evolve over time.

- Published: 2025-04-07
- Modified: 2025-04-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-fonts-shape-a-brand/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing

Brands use fonts in many ways to reflect their aims, values and personality. The most prominent use of a font is when the logo is expressed as a wordmark – a typographic rendering of the brand name in a custom, stylised or even off-the-rack typeface. Beyond the wordmark, designers have a choice to make. Do they echo their logo with an identical or consistent font? Or contrast it with a distinct typeface that complements the logo without confusing the brand? After all, when it comes to written communication, the reader’s understanding of your message isn’t just shaped by the words themselves. It’s influenced by a psychological interplay between the meaning of the words and the ‘mood’ of the font. Setting the mood However, what we determine to be a font’s ‘mood’ is derived through a complex mix of design details, cultural associations and context. This partly accounts for why we see brands change their house fonts as perceptions and associations shift over time. They are updated to create a new vibe, shed old ideas or as part of an overall rebrand. Other more practical factors also come into play, like making sure text is impactful across print, desktops, phones and laptops. Let’s take a dive into how different fonts can evoke different feelings from an audience, and how brands can harness this power. Watching their weight Fonts are powerful mood setters. One aspect that helps determine the tone of your message is the weight of the font. A fine typeface...

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> Beyond Display Stands, Bags and Pens there’s a world of unexpected printed items that can capture attention and boost your brand at events

- Published: 2025-03-28
- Modified: 2025-03-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/unexpected-exhibition-print-ideas-to-help-you-stand-out-at-events/
- Categories: Exhibitions & Trade Shows

When it comes to preparing for a trade show, exhibition or conference, display stands and flyers tend to top the list, while Pens, Notebooks and Tote Bags remain staples. But there’s a wider set of printed items that can help businesses make the most of their time at events. From branded Tablecloths and Light Boxes to Lanyards, Clothing and Branded Promotional Products, the right choices can improve visibility, support customer conversations and leave a stronger impression after the event. So let's explore some of the unsung heroes of event, conference and exhibition print that can lift your stand, creating an eye-catching and memorable presence. Printed Tablecloths One of the simplest ways to bring cohesion, polish and branding to your exhibition stand is with Printed Tablecloths. Whether you opt for a Stretch or Non-Stretch Tablecloth, both options help transform basic furniture into a coordinated, professional-looking display. Solopress Tablecloths are printed in full colour onto durable polyester, making them ideal for repeated use at trade shows, exhibitions and conferences. The material is crease-resistant and easy to care for, which means you’ll spend less time steaming or pressing between events. Fit for purpose Non-Stretch Tablecloths offer a versatile fit, with a drop that hangs evenly around the sides — ideal for standard trestle tables and larger setups. Stretch Tablecloths provide a tighter, more fitted appearance with stitched corners that hug the shape of the table. This creates a sleek, secure finish that stays in place throughout the day, even in high-traffic areas. Whichever...

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> Discover how a mixed media approach harnesses the strengths of both digital and print marketing to drive engagement and growth.

- Published: 2025-03-18
- Modified: 2025-03-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/print-x-digital-mastering-multichannel-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Marketing has always been about visibility and influence, and print was the first mass medium to deliver both. Posters, leaflets and flyers have been in circulation for centuries, from early broadsides in the 16th century to the explosion of print advertising in the 19th and 20th centuries. Businesses relied on printed materials to inform, persuade and drive sales long before radio and television introduced broadcast marketing to the mix. The arrival of digital marketing in the 21st century has reshaped the landscape again, offering new ways to reach and engage audiences. While digital channels have become a dominant force, businesses that focus solely on online marketing risk missing out on valuable opportunities. The most effective marketing strategies recognise the power of multiple touchpoints—blending digital with print to create a more persuasive, memorable and results-driven campaign. In this blog, we’ll explore why a mixed media approach remains essential, looking at the strengths of both print and digital and how they work together to drive engagement, influence decision-making and improve conversion rates. The enduring impact of print marketing In an era dominated by digital communication, print marketing continues to hold significant value. Tangible materials such as catalogues and direct mail remain effective tools for engaging consumers beyond the digital sphere. One notable advantage of print is its physical presence; a catalogue delivered to a customer's doorstep demands attention. At a minimum, it's briefly viewed before being recycled; at best, it captivates a digitally fatigued recipient, offering a tactile experience that digital media...

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> The Solopress Design Service teamed up with Lady McAdden to create a set of inspiring charity mugs to celebrate International Women's Day

- Published: 2025-03-18
- Modified: 2025-03-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-charity-mugs-for-lady-mcadden/
- Categories: Customer Stories

At Solopress, we believe in the power of print to make a meaningful impact, especially when supporting good causes. Our recent collaboration on charity mugs with Lady McAdden Breast Cancer Trust exemplifies this commitment. This Southend-based charity is dedicated to promoting early detection of breast cancer through advice, education, and awareness—truly vital work. Designing with love In anticipation of International Women's Day on 8th March 2025, we partnered with Lady McAdden to create a bespoke charity mug design aimed at raising awareness and sparking conversations about breast health. Emma Smith from our Design Service took on the project, crafting a design that embodies compassion and support. The mug we chose was a classic straight-sided, white 330ml Ceramic Mug. Emma's design features the words 'love,' 'hope,' 'care,' and 'life'—positive and supportive sentiments that align well with Lady McAdden's mission. The design also features the charity's name and contact details, and the two-tone pink colour scheme complements their logo and branding. The design was printed using dye-sublimation, a technique that ensures full-colour artwork wraps around the mug's surface. Whatsmore, they're also dishwasher-proof, for an enduring message. Emma shared her thoughts on the experience: “I’ll always treasure this opportunity to create something beautiful yet purposeful for such an incredible charity. The positive messages included in the design are there to express compassion and support for those affected by breast cancer. I hope the hashtag encourages people to share their stories, and to know that they’re not alone. ” Emma Smith, Solopress Design Service...

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> Saddle stitched Show Guides are indispensable tools in the realm of conferences and exhibitions where effective communication is key.

- Published: 2025-03-14
- Modified: 2025-03-14
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/mastering-your-event-the-power-of-show-guides/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

In the realm of conferences and exhibitions, effective communication is key to ensuring a seamless experience for attendees. Show Guides (saddle stitched, or stapled, brochures) serve as indispensable tools in this context, offering a compact and organised way to present essential information to your audience. These brochures are not only practical but also deliver a polished representation of your event, guiding attendees through schedules, speakers, and exhibitor details with ease. As we delve into the power and potential of Show Guides, we'll explore how they can elevate your event by providing clarity, accessibility, and a touch of professionalism. Whether you're a seasoned event organiser or just starting out, understanding the role of these guides can make a significant difference in mastering your event. Understanding Show Guides Importance of Event Materials Event materials, such as Show Guides (saddle stitched brochures and booklets), play a crucial role in the success of any conference or exhibition. These materials serve as the backbone of event communication, ensuring attendees have quick access to vital information. A well-constructed Show Guide can enhance the overall attendee experience by providing clear navigation through the event. It outlines schedules, speaker profiles, and exhibitor lists, allowing participants to plan their day efficiently. Furthermore, these guides act as a tangible representation of the event's brand, offering a professional touch that can leave a lasting impression. In the digital age, printed materials like Show Guides still hold significant value, as they are less prone to technical glitches and can be easily referenced....

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> Save print quotes to your account and lock in prices for 30 days, giving you more time to plan, compare and get approvals.

- Published: 2025-03-12
- Modified: 2025-03-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-create-quote-button-securing-print-quotes-for-30-days/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Securing accurate print quotes is an essential step for businesses managing budgets, planning campaigns and getting internal approvals. But fluctuating costs and last-minute changes can make this process frustrating. In order to give you more control over your print planning, we've introduced the Create Quote button—designed to simplify your workflow and bring predictability to your pricing. How the Create Quote button works Available on all product pages, the Create Quote button allows you to generate instant, precise print quotes. Once saved to your account, the quoted price for your print job is locked in for 30 days, giving you the flexibility to review options, discuss with your team and gain necessary approvals—without the risk of price changes. If you're managing multiple projects or working towards an upcoming deadline, this tool ensures you can plan ahead with confidence, knowing your costs are secured. See it in action To get a closer look at how this feature can simplify your print ordering process, watch our short video below: Why print quotes matter Prices can change, and decision-making often takes time. By securing your quote for a full month, you get: Budget with certainty. Know exactly what your print costs will be without worrying about unexpected price adjustments. Time to review and approve. Share your quote with colleagues, seek approvals, and make informed decisions without the pressure of immediate ordering. Greater efficiency for large or ongoing projects. If you're managing multiple campaigns, this tool keeps your planning smooth and predictable. Try it today...

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> Learn how to design, buy and display Roller Banners for a versatile and impactful way to display your message at conferences and exhibitions

- Published: 2025-03-10
- Modified: 2025-03-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-creating-impactful-roller-banners-for-conferences/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Roller banners are a staple at conferences and exhibitions, offering a versatile and impactful way to communicate your message effectively. These portable displays capture attention and convey essential information, making them an invaluable tool for any event. You can research UK trade Shows and events at Expocart to plan your exhibition calendar for the year ahead. Whether you're a seasoned exhibitor or a newcomer, understanding how to create an effective roller banner can significantly enhance your presence. In this guide, we will delve into the key elements that make a roller banner stand out, exploring design tips, content strategies, and practical advice to ensure your banner leaves a lasting impression. Get ready to transform your conference display or exhibition stand into an engaging and memorable experience. Understanding Roller Banners What Are Roller Banners? Roller banners, also known as roll-up banners or pull-up banners, are portable display banner stands, commonly used at trade shows, conferences, and retail spaces. They consist of a printed graphic panel that retracts into a sturdy base, making them easy to transport and quick to set up. The banner itself is usually made from durable materials like vinyl or polyester, ensuring it withstands frequent use and travel. Roller banners are available in various sizes, typically standing around two metres tall and one metre wide, providing ample space for impactful designs and messages. Their versatility makes them ideal for businesses looking to create a strong visual presence without the hassle of more complex display systems. Whether promoting a...

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> Discover how to select the best Printed Flags for conferences and exhibitions, and how they can enhance visibility and impact.

- Published: 2025-02-21
- Modified: 2025-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-ultimate-guide-to-choosing-the-perfect-flags-for-conferences-and-exhibitions/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Choosing the perfect flags for conferences and exhibitions is more than just picking colours and designs; it’s about making a statement that aligns with your brand and captures the attention of attendees. Printed Flags serve as powerful visual tools that can enhance the visibility of your stand, communicate your message effectively, and create a lasting impression. Whether you're a seasoned event organiser or a business owner stepping into the world of conferences and exhibitions materials flags, for the first time, understanding the different types of flags, their uses, and their impact on your audience is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore the key considerations and practical tips to help you select the most effective flags for your next event, ensuring they contribute positively to your overall exhibition strategy. Understanding Flag Types Traditional vs Modern Flags When selecting flags for your event, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of traditional versus modern designs. Traditional flags often feature classic shapes and materials, such as rectangular banners made from durable fabrics like cotton or polyester. These flags can exude a sense of timelessness and reliability, appealing to audiences who appreciate tradition and heritage. On the other hand, modern flags embrace innovative designs and materials. Sleek and dynamic shapes, such as teardrop or feather styles, can make your display stand out. These flags are typically crafted from lightweight, weather-resistant materials, making them easy to transport and set up. They offer a contemporary look that can resonate with a forward-thinking audience. Ultimately, the...

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> The UK’s most popular coffee shops, ranked by search trends and social media buzz. Explore what makes them stand out and how print can help.

- Published: 2025-02-11
- Modified: 2025-02-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/espresso-yourself-the-uks-most-loved-coffee-shops/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

With an estimated 12,000 independent coffee shops across the UK, finding the perfect spot for your caffeine fix can feel like searching for a coffee bean in a latte foam. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast looking to explore new flavours or a coffee shop owner keen to discover what makes a café truly stand out, we've got you covered. We’ve crafted a list of the most beloved coffee shops across the UK and London, uncovering the key ingredients behind their success. So, grab your cup of choice and dive in! The Top 10 Most Popular Coffee Shops in the UK Mrs Potts Chocolate House tops the list as the UK's most popular coffee shop, gaining popularity with its rich chocolate treats and a standout social media presence. With a combined total of 3,150 posts across TikTok (257) and Instagram (2,893), it leads the pack in online buzz. Homeground Coffee + Kitchen takes second place, fueled by a 1,028. 21% surge in search volume from 2023 to 2024. Its charm shines through 1,625 combined social media posts, including 26 TikTok posts and a noteworthy 1,599 Instagram posts. In third, Liverpool’s 92 Degrees sees a 124. 07% rise in search volume, with 121 TikTok posts and 1,193 Instagram posts adding to its growing digital presence. Rank Coffee Shop 2024 Annual Search Volume % change from 2023 to 2024 Number of TikTok posts Number of Instagram posts 1 Mrs Potts Chocolate House 97,200 125. 00% 257 2,893 2 Homeground Coffee + Kitchen 52,800...

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> Discover the best UK cities for business start-ups in 2025 based on survival rate, local economy, recruitment potential and overheads.

- Published: 2025-02-07
- Modified: 2025-02-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-uk-cities-for-business-start-ups-in-2025/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Starting a business is an exciting but challenging venture, and location can play a crucial role in success. The right city can provide access to a rich pool of talent, a thriving economy, and affordable operating costs. On the other hand, the wrong choice may present critical obstacles like high overheads or limited customer demand. To help entrepreneurs make informed decisions, we’ve analysed the best best UK cities for business start-ups in 2025. Our rankings consider key factors such as business survival rates, local GDP, employment levels and rental costs for those planning to set up physical premises. The findings reveal some surprising frontrunners, alongside cities where businesses may face tougher conditions. The top 10 cities for business start-ups Based on our research, York tops the list of the best cities for start-ups in 2025. With a five-year business survival rate of 45. 1%, the highest in our study, and a solid local GDP of £8. 35 billion, York offers a strong foundation for new ventures. The city’s relatively low unemployment rate of 1. 7% suggests a stable workforce, though it may also lead to increased competition for skilled talent. Retail rental costs average £2. 48 per square foot per month, making it a viable option for those requiring commercial space. Bristol ranks second, with a 43. 9% survival rate and a GDP of £21. 1 billion. The city offers a stable economy and a business-friendly environment. With an unemployment rate of 2. 8% and average rental costs of £1....

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> Explore how AI reimagines iconic logos, the psychology behind great design, and discover why human creativity remains vital for brands

- Published: 2025-01-10
- Modified: 2025-01-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/ai-regenerated-logos-what-ai-can-teach-us-about-branding/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing

A logo is the keystone of a brand’s identity, encapsulating its essence and creating an immediate, lasting impression. To understand what makes logos stand out, we conducted an eye-tracking experiment analysing which logos are the most attention-grabbing. With these findings in mind, we consulted Dr Sham Singh, a Harbor UCLA-trained psychiatrist with expertise in visual and emotional psychology, to develop prompts for AI to reimagine logos for leading brands in fashion, tech, beauty, and food. We then evaluated the AI-generated designs to determine how well they aligned with each brand’s identity and whether they captured the originality and emotional resonance essential to great design. Finally, Richard Kemp, Creative Lead at Solopress, offers his expert insights on the designs and shares what truly makes a logo impactful. This collaborative process aimed to uncover whether AI-driven designs could meet the standards of effective branding. The Most Eye-Catching Brand Logos To uncover the world’s most eye-catching brand logos, Solopress conducted an eye-tracking experiment, analysing where viewers’ eyes focused when exposed to different logos. By categorising key design elements, they measured how long viewers spent on each logo, how quickly it grabbed their attention, and how often their gaze returned to it—showcasing the true power of design in capturing attention at a glance. Sony claimed the top spot with an exceptional eye-catching score of 9. 6/10. Its iconic logo, defined by a clean and bold design, held viewers’ attention for an impressive average of 1,385 milliseconds across nearly three glances. Remarkably, the first glance...

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> Using engagement data from platforms like Instagram and TikTok, we’ve ranked over 60 of the best Christmas markets in the UK and Europe

- Published: 2024-10-30
- Modified: 2024-10-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/the-uks-must-see-christmas-markets-for-2024-a-social-media-phenomenon/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows, Special Occasions

As the festive season draws near, the search for the most captivating Christmas markets is on. This year’s social media-driven study explores which UK and European markets shine as online favourites. Using engagement data from platforms like Instagram and TikTok, we’ve compiled a list of over 60 of the most celebrated markets. Our rankings not only reveal which markets captivate visitors but also underscore the importance of creating shareable, memorable experiences that make an impact both in person and online. Our social media-friendly Christmas markets listings feature some grand gatherings that are buzzing with bustling energy. However, the study also highlights the UK’s hidden gems - seasonal markets that are maybe not so well-known, but offer a quaint and cosy Christmas vibe. The 10 most social media-friendly Christmas markets in the UK Edinburgh Christmas Market With holiday charm in abundance, these UK Christmas markets have captured social media like never before. From Edinburgh’s historic splendour to London’s Winter Wonderland, here’s a breakdown of the most popular Christmas markets based on social media scores. Rank Christmas Market No. TikTok posts No. Instagram posts Total Score 1 Edinburgh 2,738 55,304 8. 62 2 Winter WonderLand London 3,409 43,237 8. 60 3 Manchester 1,541 62,109 7. 53 4 Bath 678 35,115 4. 44 5 Birmingham 1,019 21,652 3. 91 6 York 307 12,045 2. 28 7 Winchester 204 10,319 2. 01 8 Nottingham 360 6,494 1. 94 9 Glasgow 316 5,169 1. 79 10 Cardiff 181 4,998 1. 60 1. Edinburgh Christmas Edinburgh...

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> Choosing the perfect Christmas card for your business can be daunting. In this guide, we explore practical tips to help you get it right.

- Published: 2024-10-30
- Modified: 2024-10-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/a-guide-to-choosing-the-perfect-christmas-corporate-card/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions

Choosing the perfect Christmas card for your business can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it becomes a straightforward process. As the festive season approaches, businesses seek to convey appreciation and goodwill to clients, customers, partners, and employees through thoughtfully selected cards. A well-chosen Christmas card not only reflects the company's brand and values but also strengthens relationships and leaves a lasting impression. In this guide, we will explore key considerations and practical tips to help you select the ideal card that resonates with your audience, ensuring your holiday message is both meaningful and memorable. Understanding corporate card etiquette Importance of Christmas corporate cards Corporate Christmas cards play a significant role in maintaining and nurturing professional relationships. They serve as a tangible reminder of your company's presence and commitment to customers, partners, and employees. For more insight into why personalised business Christmas Cards, check out our Ultimate Guide to Printing Christmas Cards. By sending a thoughtfully selected card, you demonstrate appreciation and respect, reinforcing positive ties. It also shows your recipients that you value your relationship beyond business transactions. Moreover, Christmas corporate cards can enhance brand visibility. A well-designed card that reflects your brand's ethos can help keep your company top of mind during the festive season. Furthermore, these cards provide an opportunity to communicate your values and culture in a subtle yet impactful way. As many businesses tend to overlook this tradition, sending a card can set your company apart, highlighting your attention to detail and...

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> Stickers on Rolls from Solopress provided Wilma’s Bakery with a unique branding solution to match their exquisite cakes.

- Published: 2024-10-30
- Modified: 2024-10-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/wilmas-bakery-stickers/
- Categories: Customer Stories, Entrepreneurs

Wilma’s Bakery has been serving up smiles and sweet treats since 2016. Known for their beautifully crafted cupcakes, cookies, and event cakes, this local Essex business, whom we’re proud to have as neighbours, has developed a strong reputation for creating visually stunning and delicious bakes. As Wilma’s Bakery has grown, so has their need for creative packaging solutions, leading them to a partnership with Solopress, particularly with our new Stickers on Rolls. The trailer before the main event... Wilma’s Bakery began its journey in a small trailer, affectionately named “Cakey McCakeface. ” Founders Will and Gemma travelled around the UK, attending food and music festivals to share their freshly baked treats with the masses. As demand grew, so did the business. Today, Wilma’s boasts two high street outlets and a dedicated kitchen in Southend. The team’s passion for creating eye-catching cakes and bakes has always been matched by their attention to detail in packaging. It’s this dedication to presentation that has helped Wilma’s stand out, and it’s also where Solopress has been able to play a part. Sticky business: introducing Stickers on Rolls As part of their continued growth, Wilma’s Bakery sought a more efficient solution for their branding and packaging needs. Our newly introduced Custom Shape Stickers on Rolls offered the perfect answer. These Stickers are an ideal fit for Wilma’s, accommodating custom shapes and high volumes to keep up with the bakery’s expanding operations. Whether it's branding takeaway boxes or labelling their signature products, Stickers on Rolls offer...

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> Whether you’re looking to resell cards or send seasonal wishes to clients and colleagues, printed Christmas Cards offer a unique opportunity.

- Published: 2024-10-22
- Modified: 2024-10-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/the-ultimate-guide-to-printing-christmas-cards/
- Categories: Print Inspiration, Special Occasions, Tutorials

As the festive season approaches, now is the perfect time for businesses, charities, and creatives to start planning their Christmas Cards. Whether you’re looking to resell beautifully crafted cards or send personalised messages to clients and colleagues, printed Christmas Cards offer a unique opportunity to connect and engage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when designing and ordering your Christmas Cards, from the benefits of choosing a physical card to the design process and the extensive range of finishes available. Let’s dive in. 1. Why get printed Christmas Cards? While it might be tempting to send a quick email or e-card during the holidays, nothing beats the charm of a physical Christmas Card. Here’s why: Personal and tactile connection A Christmas Card is more than just a message – it’s a physical object that carries weight, texture, and thoughtfulness. It feels personal, crafted, and intentional. The tactile nature of a card creates a deeper emotional connection between the sender and receiver. Unlike digital messages, which are often fleeting, a physical card can be kept and displayed, serving as a lasting reminder of the gesture. You won’t get lost in the inbox We all know how cluttered inboxes can become, especially during the busy holiday season. A digital card might get lost among the flood of other emails and promotions. By contrast, a printed Christmas Card is something your recipients will handle, open, and read. It has a presence that demands attention and won’t be accidentally...

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> Brand Central simplifies print management, saves time and money, and ensures a consistent branding for Pauline Quirke Academy and TEMPLESPA

- Published: 2024-10-21
- Modified: 2024-10-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-pauline-quirke-academy-templespa-join-brand-central/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Brand Central was developed to provide consistently on-brand print for companies and organisations with multiple sites or franchises. We understand that these business models face significant challenges in managing their print. Brand guardianship becomes difficult when different teams or franchisees source their own materials, and costs spiral when print procurement is fragmented across locations. With Brand Central from Solopress, clients receive a bespoke print-buying portal where design templates and print materials can be accessed by various locations, teams, or individuals. Once set up, there are no recurring fees, and invoicing can be managed either centrally or devolved, depending on what suits your business model. The portal also supports non-print templates, such as digital assets or internal communications. Brand Central Pioneers We were excited to launch Brand Central and introduce it to our first group of clients. Their experiences highlight how the platform simplifies print management, saves time and money, and ensures a strong, consistent brand for companies looking to expand their reach. Pauline Quirke Academy The Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) is a national theatre and performing arts school founded by actor Pauline Quirke MBE. With over 200 locations across the UK, PQA offers classes in Musical Theatre, Comedy & Drama, and Film & Television for young people aged 4 to 18. As the network expanded, PQA needed a way to provide licensees with the flexibility to access consistent, on-brand print materials without overwhelming their central team. Marketing materials on demand To address this, PQA adopted Brand Central, a customised print...

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> When View Garden Centre decided to host a Christmas Market with a Scandi twist, Solopress was there to get help create memorable display

- Published: 2024-10-09
- Modified: 2024-10-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/view-garden-centres-christmas-market/
- Categories: Customer Stories

As much as people hate to admit it, Christmas is fast approaching. The festive countdown is already ticking away for those preparing to ensure this years’ Christmas tree beats last year’s efforts. For retail businesses, Christmas has been at the forefront of their minds since before the Easter Eggs were back on the shelves. That’s particularly true for Garden Centres whose displays get more magical and enticing every year. For them, the race is on to capture the imaginations of shoppers who just can’t get enough seasonal illuminations and embellishments to create that ‘instagrammable’ moment. The evolution of the Christmas Market Once upon a time, ‘Christmas market’ either meant a trip to Germany or a chilly weeknight trip to a council-run Victorian evening with a plethora of stalls and a standard hot chestnut seller. Now the craze has spread to every corner of the UK — including garden centres. Such is the need to increase footfall and tempt physical shoppers away from the world of online shopping, retailers need to stand out and offer something unmissable to encourage visitors. View Garden Centre, based in Rayleigh, Essex, has taken the Christmas market and given it a Scandi make-over this year. Their Nordic Christmas Market is full of traditional Christmas Fare, as well as Scandinavian delights. View have pulled out all the stops to ensure their customers have an unforgettable visit and they called on Solopress to help with their finishing touches. Take a video tour... The team at View very kindly...

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> Solopress helped comedian Katie Hurley to find success at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival thanks to some creative promotional solutions

- Published: 2024-09-02
- Modified: 2024-09-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-katie-hurley-at-the-edinburgh-fringe-festival/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Katie Hurley is a dynamic performer who brought her show, "You're SO F**king Croydon! " to the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Known for its eclectic mix of performances and buzzing atmosphere, the festival is a vibrant hub where artists showcase their talents to audiences from around the globe. Katie made her mark at the Underbelly Cowgate venue this year with a fresh and bold performance. Newsflash: comedians are attention seekers! Edinburgh Fringe Festival is an event unlike any other, with over 3,700 shows vying for attention. In such a saturated market, standing out is no small feat. With a smaller budget than many other performers, Katie needed to make a big impact with her marketing to draw in crowds. She and her director took on the challenge of flyering themselves, while many others hired teams for promotion. Katie's goal was clear: rise above the noise and attract festival-goers to her show. Katie needed eye-catching and effective promotional materials to draw attention to her performance and engage directly with potential audiences. This included flyers for distribution, posters for visibility around the venue, and innovative tools that would make her stand out amidst the sea of flyers and posters that flood the festival. Standing out with Solopress Katie turned to Solopress to help her stand out at the Fringe. As a returning customer, she knew she could rely on Solopress for high-quality print materials and quick turnaround times. How we helped: Flyers and Posters: We produced 4,000 A5 flyers on 200gsm silk...

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> We recently invested £3.4m in our plant list in order to boost our digital, litho and finishing capabilities

- Published: 2024-08-15
- Modified: 2024-08-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/3-4m-in-fresh-investment-to-enhance-our-print-capabilities/
- Categories: Print Industry News, Solopress News

At Solopress, we’re constantly striving to improve our services to provide you with the best possible print solutions. Recently, we’ve made a significant £3. 4m investment in our plant list, adding new state-of-the-art equipment to enhance both our lithographic and digital printing capabilities as well as our folding and finishing offerings. This investment is all about ensuring we can deliver top-quality print quickly, efficiently, and at great value to our customers. Parallel paths: investing in both litho and digital Our commitment to both lithographic and digital printing stems from our belief in the unique strengths of each method. By leveraging the best of both worlds, we can meet a broader range of your printing needs, ensuring that we deliver the highest quality prints regardless of the project’s size or complexity. Lithographic printing: unmatched quality and speed Lithographic printing, or litho printing, is a method that has stood the test of time due to its exceptional quality and efficiency for large print runs. The process involves creating plates for each job, which can be more labour-intensive and time-consuming initially. However, once the plates are set up, litho printing offers incredible speed and consistency, making it ideal for high-volume projects. Our new Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 106 4 litho press with Coating Unit represents the pinnacle of lithographic technology. This press not significantly boosts our B1 output, but also allows us to achieve stunning print quality with exceptional detail and colour accuracy. The addition of the Coating Unit means we can apply special...

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> In the run-up to the 2024 UK General Election, the demand for print was at an all-time high. Solopress met the challenge head-on.

- Published: 2024-08-02
- Modified: 2024-08-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/how-the-2024-election-handed-solopress-the-mandate-to-print-your-flyers-and-leaflets/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration, Solopress News

Print is a powerful tool for political campaigns, providing a tangible and direct way to connect with voters. Flyers and Leaflets are essential for grassroots mobilisation, door-to-door canvassing, and local community engagement. During the run-up to the 2024 UK General Election, the demand for high-quality print was at an all-time high, and Solopress met the challenge head-on. Exceptional performance during peak election season From May to June 2024, Solopress handled a staggering volume of print orders for political parties across the UK. Our performance statistics during this period speak volumes about our capability and reliability: Job count: 37,610 1,732,722 sqm printed 5,589,426 M0 sheets 2,840,528 660 x 920 sheets On-time dispatch rate: 99. 6% These stats relate to election print alone, so it's clear to see the unprecedented lift in demand during the brief period between Rishi Sunak calling the election on the 22nd of May and polling day on the 4th of July. Reliability in dispatch times One of the most impressive aspects of our performance is our 99. 6% on-time dispatch rate. In the high-stakes world of political campaigning, timing is critical. Late delivery of campaign materials can result in missed opportunities to connect with voters. Achieving an on-time dispatch rate at this level is almost unheard of in the print industry. The scale of our printing operations Here are some stats to help you appreciate the scale of our Election performance: 1,732,722 sqm election materials printed: This area is nearly 244 football pitches. 5,589,426 M0 sheets: If...

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> Check out Solopress's collaboration with Little Fin Roastery and learn how Pouch Packaging enhances product appeal and preservation.

- Published: 2024-06-28
- Modified: 2024-07-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/pouch-packaging-our-appetising-coffee-collaboration/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Customer Stories, Entrepreneurs

To celebrate our 25th anniversary and the launch of our new range of Stand-up Pouches, we collaborated with Little Fin Roastery to create a special coffee blend. View our video for a glimpse into the process, and stick around to learn how custom Pouch Packaging can enhance your product presentation and preservation. Crafting bespoke Pouch Packaging with Solopress At Solopress, we are passionate about offering top-tier packaging solutions that not only protect your products but also enhance their appeal. To celebrate our 25th anniversary, we teamed up with Little Fin Coffee Roastery, just a short walk from our office in Southend, to create a unique coffee blend. This collaboration beautifully showcases our expertise in designing and producing custom stand-up Pouch Packaging. A journey from bean to pouch Our video chronicles the entire process, beginning with our team consulting with Little Fin Coffee Roastery. Together, we selected the finest beans, followed by an immersive coffee tasting experience. You'll witness the beans being roasted and ground, alongside the meticulous process of printing, filling, and sealing the pouches. About Little Fin Coffee Roastery Solopress is to a considerable degree fuelled by the fantastic coffee produced by our close neighbours, Little Fin Coffee Roastery! Little Fin began with a simple goal: to create the freshest, most flavourful filter coffee. Starting with a countertop roaster and an Aeropress, the founders dedicated countless hours to perfecting their craft. Now, several years and thousands of coffee bags later, Little Fin continues to delight customers with their premium...

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> Solopress is here to support your outdoor event this summer with our comprehensive expert guide and essential outdoor print.

- Published: 2024-06-25
- Modified: 2024-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/summer-success-your-guide-to-hosting-outdoor-events/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor events in the UK. Whether it's a community fair, colleague gathering, or music festival, a well-planned event can strengthen bonds and provide a good old time for all involved. However, outdoor events can present unique challenges and require meticulous planning that accounts for variables like weather and accessibility. Solopress is here to support your event with essential outdoor printing materials that ensure your event stands out and runs smoothly. Choosing the right venue Selecting the right venue is crucial to the success of your event. Accessibility is a key consideration; ensure the location is easily accessible for all attendees, including those with disabilities. Check for adequate parking and public transport links. Given the unpredictable British weather, choose a venue that offers some form of shelter or allows for temporary structures like Gazebos. Research local weather patterns and historical data to make informed decisions. Using Banners, Posters, and Signage can help guide attendees and enhance the venue's visual appeal, ensuring everyone knows where to go even in inclement weather. Crowd capacity is also important. Overcrowded spaces can be unsafe, while a venue that’s too large might appear sparsely attended, which can kill the vibe. Select a venue that can comfortably accommodate your expected number of attendees while adhering to safety regulations. Can I hire a park for my summer event? Parks represent attractive outdoor spaces, often easily accessible at the heart of a community, making them an ideal location for events. Generally, parks are...

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> Get your free Euro 2024 Wall Chart to guarantee you don’t miss a minute of this summers festival of football.

- Published: 2024-05-22
- Modified: 2024-06-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/free-euro-2024-wall-chart/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

The European Championships head to Germany this summer for Euro 2024. It’s been a quick turnaround from the last tournament, with the delayed Euro 2020 kicking off in 2021. A fanatic festival of football lies ahead, with Die Mannschaft kicking off against Scotland on June 14th. Here’s your free Euro 2024 Wall Chart to guarantee you don’t miss a minute of the action. Our free downloadable template lets you easily add your logo, and print a branded Euro 2024 Wall Chart to get you off the bench and into the action. Why a Wall Chart? Wall Charts are the ultimate tool to have handy when the European Championship kicks off. They tell you the date, time and venue of each game, from the group stage to the finals. Wall Charts mean you don’t have to second guess a moment of what’s sure to be an exhilarating Euro’s. Good or bad, they’ll remind you of the scores and build anticipation for the next game. Of course, one added benefit of a branded Wall Chart is having your brand on show throughout the action! Branded Wall Planners: Keep your brand on target throughout the tournament Provide people with the best way to keep up with the final scores Leave your customers a special piece of memorabilia to cherish While UEFA owns specific rights, including its logo and trophy image, other businesses can personalise their branded Planners. How to customise your Wall Chart? Brands should make their Euro 2024 Wall Charts: Accurate –...

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- Published: 2024-04-25
- Modified: 2024-04-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/solopress-offset-200000-kg-of-co2/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

Solopress are proud to have offset over 200,000 kilograms of CO2, a significant milestone in continuing our environmental goals. Achieving this in only three years is an incredible achievement and reiterates our commitment to furthering our green values. It shows that our concern for the environment goes beyond ticking boxes. To be exact, we have offset 209,706 kilograms of carbon dioxide. This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without your overwhelming support for our Solopress Green range. What is 200,000 KG of CO2? 200,000 kilograms is a huge number, so huge it can be difficult to understand the magnitude of it. To make this more digestible, here are some equivalent figures that 200,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide would be produced by: Driving 621,200 kilometres in your car Putting on 215,000 wash cycles at 60˚C Producing 12,000 pairs of running shoes Producing 16,200 kilograms of beef Melting 600m3/600,000 litres of ice in the Arctic Setting off 200 hot air balloons at once Solopress’ environmental efforts At Solopress, our concern for the environment goes beyond making token gestures. Ecological values are central to our mission and we’ll never introduce new products or policies without first considering the environmental consequences. From our inception in 1999, we’ve always led the way with our green values. From being one of the first adopters of vegetable inks to having our entire operation on electricity derived from renewable sources, we’re proud to do our bit to help our planet. Carbon offsetting with Solopress One enormous step we took...

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- Published: 2024-04-19
- Modified: 2024-04-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/the-greenest-cities-in-the-uk/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

As the internet expands and continents connect, the global population is becoming increasingly aware of the potential dangers that a changing climate poses. With many countries, governments and businesses being handed a 2050 deadline to reach net zero, we delve into which UK cities have the least work to do to hit their target. We have revealed the greenest cities in the UK, looking at each city's quality of green space, air pollution and percentage of waste sent to be reused. We have also shared the most and least wasteful cities throughout the country. The top ten greenest cities in the UK Rank Town/City Quality of green space & parks Air pollution Traffic index Number of walking trails Number of walking trails (per 10. 000 people) % of waste sent for reuse Total Number of parks 1 Milton Keynes 88. 64 17. 05 88. 42 52 1. 78 51. 90% 44 2 Swansea 82. 14 20. 45 93. 57 78 3. 23 56. 70% 21 3 Cambridge 90. 83 29. 17 135. 71 83 5. 65 48. 90% 23 4 Oxford 88. 24 20. 45 134. 19 60 3. 68 51. 20% 21 5 Edinburgh 81. 54 25. 36 114. 59 138 2. 68 41. 70% 77 6 Reading 78. 26 27. 78 132. 66 103 5. 89 51. 50% 24 7 Sheffield 88. 10 30. 21 92. 70 193 3. 41 32. 10% 80 8 Huddersfield 58. 33 31. 25 178. 19 n/a n/a n/a 29 9 Cardiff 78....

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> When Andrea McDowell started up award-winning tuber supplier and PYO flower farm, Dahlia Beach, print from Solopress helped spread the word

- Published: 2024-03-27
- Modified: 2024-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-dahlia-beach/
- Categories: Customer Stories, Print Inspiration

When Andrea McDowell, a former TV director from London, moved to the Cotswold borders in 2013, it was in pursuit of a better life, one that her small stone courtyard in Brixton couldn't offer. With a deep-rooted passion for gardening, she sought space and tranquillity to grow. Andie previously led a successful wedding video company, balancing work and family life seamlessly until the unforeseen challenges of 2020 struck. The pandemic led to an abrupt halt in her business operations, pushing her to find comfort and purpose in gardening. Getting Dahlia Beach off the ground This transition marked the beginning of Dahlia Beach. The positive transformation in her garden, driven by her dedication and a selection of carefully chosen dahlias, not only nurtured her during a tumultuous period but also laid the foundation for her new venture. In November 2020, amid the lockdown, Andie took a bold step by launching Dahlia Beach, starting with an order of 4,000 dahlia tubers. The business quickly flourished, indicating a promising new chapter for Andie and her family. With Dahlia Beach's initial success, Andie faced the vital task of marketing and promoting her unique venture. Understanding the power of tangible, high-quality print material in telling a story and engaging customers, she sought a printing partner that could meet her needs with speed, quality, and reliability. That's when Andie discovered Solopress, a decision that would significantly augment Dahlia Beach's brand visibility and reach. "I use Solopress for all of my print material! " she affirms. A...

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> Say hello to artist business cards – miniature canvases that do much more than just share your contact information.

- Published: 2024-03-20
- Modified: 2024-03-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/top-tips-on-how-to-create-artist-business-cards/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

In the invigorating kaleidoscope we call the art world, standing out can often be a challenge. But what if I tell you there's a pocket-sized way to leave a long-lasting impression? Say hello to artist Business Cards – miniature canvases that do much more than just share your contact information. They are your silent advocates, showcasing your artistic style at first glance, and acting as constant reminders of who you are and what you bring to the table. Why artist Business Cards are important for networking and marketing As an artist, your creativity and inspiration is not limited to the frame or canvas; it should permeate everything associated with you, including your communication tools. Here’s where artist Business Cards take centre stage. Visibility: The art world is positively buzzing with creative energy, making visibility critical in such crowded milieu. An eye-catching artist Business Card can effectively set you apart from others while also serving as a visual reminder of your unique aesthetic. Professionalism: While artistic talent holds dominion over all else in the arts sector, professionalism is by no means less important. A well-crafted Business Card subtly signals seriousness about your craft and sends across an implicit message of reliability and commitment. Networking: Artists often find themselves mingling at exhibits, galleries, workshops, or festivals. In these settings filled with potential collaborators or clients, having an attractive Business Card on hand could turn fleeting encounters into fruitful partnerships. Marketing tool: In essence, artist Business Cards are portable advertisements that promote both...

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> Read about the top 10 most social media-friendly restaurants in London, the UK, rooftop UK bars and around the world.

- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-03-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-most-popular-restaurants-in-the-uk-and-rest-of-the-world/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Branding

Nothing can get your tastebuds salivating more than scrolling through succulent, steaming dishes of your favourite cuisines over social media. Picturesque plates can win prying eyes to book a table at your eatery. Today, four in ten Brits research using social media when deciding which restaurant to visit. With people using social media platforms increasingly as search engines, a restaurant's online presence is becoming essential to attract new visitors. We've researched the most social media-friendly restaurants across the UK and the world, looking at the number of TikTok and Instagram posts associated with the restaurant's hashtag. The top 10 most social media-friendly restaurants in the UK Rank Restaurant Name City Number of TikTok Posts Number of Instagram Posts Total number of social media posts 1 Sketch London 1,745 93,849 95,594 2 20 Stories Manchester 813 21,062 21,875 3 Sushi Samba London 778 16,987 17,765 4 Circolo Popolare London 1,791 11,333 13,124 5 The Churchill Arms London 86 7,982 8,068 6 Brasserie Of Light London 391 6,911 7,302 7 London In The Sky London 543 6,389 6,932 8 Pergola Paddington London 307 4,098 4,405 9 The Florist London 81 3,920 4,001 10 14 Hills London 420 3,011 3,431 Sketch London reigns champion as the most social media-friendly restaurant in the UK by a significant margin, with a total number of 95,594 social media posts. Sketch has more social posts shared by customers than the rest of the UK top ten combined, and 70,000 more posts than the restaurant that comes in...

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> Solopress are proud to announce we have been named Company of the Year at the prestigious Printweek Awards 2024.

- Published: 2024-03-08
- Modified: 2024-03-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-win-company-of-the-year-at-the-printweek-awards-2024/
- Categories: Print Industry News, Solopress News

It’s our huge pleasure to announce that Solopress has been named Company of the Year at the prestigious Printweek Awards 2024. The awards evening, held at The Brewery in London on Wednesday 6th March, was held by the illustrious trade publication Printweek, celebrating excellence in the print industry. This ceremony is the highlight of the print industry calendar, celebrating outstanding performance and innovation within the sector. Out of 16 competitive categories, the 'Company of the Year' stands as the most prodigious award, honouring a company that exhibits exemplary success in various critical areas including financial growth, technological advancement, investment in human resources, and contributions to the industry at large. Printweek describes this award as “the ultimate accolade in the printing industry”, a testament to the recipient’s leadership and comprehensive excellence across all facets of operation. Images Copyright www. tellingphotography. com Solopress was selected for the title following a rigorous evaluation process, recognising its financial accomplishments, strategic investments in cutting-edge technology, and dedication to nurturing a skilled and motivated workforce. Judged by a panel of industry experts, the Company of the Year award recognises the best all-round performance from a printer. The panel commended our first-rate commitment to sound financials, excellent service, technological innovation and team development. The award couldn’t come at a better time, with Solopress currently celebrating its 25th anniversary year. Since 1999, the Southend printer has been providing exceptional print solutions to businesses and print resellers across the UK. From Flyers, Leaflets, and Business Stationery to wide-format print...

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> QR code technology has been used across point-of-sale material and display ads for some time, so why not try QR code business cards?

- Published: 2024-03-06
- Modified: 2024-03-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-create-qr-code-business-cards/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

In an era where digital technology reigns supreme, business transactions often start with a simple scan. Point-of-sale material and display ads have been making great use of QR technology for some time, but QR code business cards are increasingly becoming a game-changer for networking and branding. Intrigued to find out how these little squares filled with black and white pixels can revolutionise your professional interactions? Stick with us as we explore the realm of QR code business cards. What are QR Code Business Cards? Definition of QR Code Business Cards QR code business cards, at their core, are traditional business cards that create a bridge to your digital content. The term "QR" stems from "Quick Response," which is appropriate considering how these codes work - directing your audience to your chosen landing page upon being scanned with a smartphone or a QR scanner. The characteristic square-shaped matrix barcode is typically printed on one side of the card. It encapsulates crucial contact details quickly such as personal data (name, phone number), company info (name, official website), social media profile links, or even directions to physical locations! How QR Code Business Cards work Using a QR code business card is simple. When someone scans the unique code on your card with their smartphone camera or dedicated app, they're instantly led to whatever digital location or service you've linked it to. This could vary from your LinkedIn profile to your online portfolio. The exchange of information between contacts happens almost instantaneously without manually...

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> Learn how the Little Library at Coram's Fields, came to life thanks to a bright idea, a lot of community spirit & some print from Solopress

- Published: 2024-02-29
- Modified: 2024-02-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-the-little-library-at-corams-fields/
- Categories: Customer Stories

In the heart of London, between Great Ormond St Hospital and King’s Cross, lies Coram’s Fields. This leafy park and playground provides a welcome contrast to the bustling city streets all around, as well as a wonderful place for kids to get active. It’s also home to the Coram’s Fields charity that provides much needed support to children and their families. The plan to create the Little Library at Coram’s Fields was hatched by Alia Bokhary and her two young children, Oliver and Cara, all of whom love to visit the park and playground. They were inspired after seeing a similar scheme elsewhere. According to Alia: “We came across a little free library in late 2022 and thought the book exchange, with its heart-warming ‘take one, share one' concept was wonderful. ” This encounter led them to seize the initiative and enlist their own cast of characters to help establish the Little Library at Coram’s Fields. A community gem in the heart of London Coram's Fields The concept is a simple one: to create a place where children and their families can come and borrow a book to read and leave another in its place, if they’re able to do so. It’s a wonderful idea, born out of kindness and generosity, that taps into the power of community and our shared love of reading. To turn the dream into reality, however, there was a list of practicalities they would need to address. Bringing the story to life Alia and her...

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> Learn why photography Business Cards are essential for your brand, the benefits of having them, and design tips to stand out from the crowd.

- Published: 2024-02-22
- Modified: 2024-02-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-importance-of-photography-business-cards-for-your-brand/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Branding, Business Cards

Photography Business Cards are a crucial tool for building and promoting your brand. A well-designed and standout Business Card can make a lasting impression on potential clients and help you stand out in a saturated market. In this piece, we will explore the importance of Business Cards for your brand, discussing the key elements of an effective Business Card design, the benefits they offer, and how they can contribute to the growth and success of your photography business. Whether you are a professional photographer or an aspiring one, discover why investing in high-quality and creative photography Business Cards is a worthwhile endeavour. Understanding the power of Business Cards Elevating your brand with Business Cards Photography Business Cards serve as more than simply a means to share contact information; they are a tangible extension of your brand identity. A thoughtfully designed card can boost your brand by providing a snapshot of your creative skills. When handed to potential clients, they get a feel for your style and attention to detail. It's critical to see your wedding photography Business Cards' as a first point of contact – an introduction that can lead to deeper conversations and business opportunities. By ensuring that the card reflects your brand's aesthetics and values, you are setting a professional tone and creating a sense of trust and quality before a client even views your portfolio. In essence, your photography Business Cards can act as a silent ambassador for your brand's image and ethos. The role of Business...

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> Learn the importance of Business Cards for Etsy sellers and the benefits this can have on your shop and overall branding.

- Published: 2024-02-19
- Modified: 2024-02-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-cards-for-etsy-sellers/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

In a digital world, why would an online seller like you need a Business Card? You may be surprised to find out that this tangible piece of print marketing can propel your Etsy shop to new heights. Through this free, comprehensive guide on Business Cards for Etsy sellers, we'll navigate their importance and show how they can amplify your reach. We'll discuss effective design, savvy usage tips, etiquette and even highlight some exciting digital alternatives. The importance of Business Cards for Etsy sellers Most people have heard about Business Cards but never bothered to print their own due to their archaic reputation. However, they have more than held their own as a marketing powerhouse in the modern era. Especially being an Etsy seller where creating personal connections is vital; having beautifully designed Business Cards reflects more than just contact information, it mirrors the soul of your brand. Why Business Cards are essential for Etsy sellers Business cards are instrumental in bridging the gap between the virtual and physical worlds by providing a cost-effective yet effective outreach strategy. As an Etsy seller, you get to consolidate online interactions with an offline impression via high-quality, aesthetically striking Business Cards that serve as a conversation starter, a reminder or a token of gratitude for customers or collaborators alike. Their pocket size makes them easily stored and distributed at local events or added into packaging, providing a personal touch while also driving more traffic to your shop or website. The power of personal connections...

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> We researched the best and worst cities for introverts to work and live in both the United Kingdom and around the world.

- Published: 2024-02-05
- Modified: 2024-02-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-cities-for-introverts/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

In a rapidly changing, technologically advanced world, living an introverted lifestyle is becoming increasingly easier. Introverts are those of us whose personalities focus on internal feelings, rather than extroverts, who focus on external stimulation in their daily lives. With two in five people across the world describing themselves as introverts, we have explored where are the best cities for introverts. We investigated the best and worst cities, both in the UK and globally, for introverts based on metrics including population density, wifi speed and cost, average monthly salary, quality of greens and parks, noise and light pollution, things to do and number of remote jobs available. The top 10 UK cities for introverts Securing the top spot, Edinburgh stands firm as the best city for introverts to work in the UK. With a less dense population (1,830), the city offers an average salary of up to £2,416. 50 a month and the fastest wifi speed of all cities analysed (135 Mbps). The city is home to plenty of green spaces and parks, scoring a healthy 80. 1/100 and has 45 different things to do around the area. Milton Keynes presents a staunch second option. Living amongst a smaller population density of 930 and a highly competitive monthly salary (£3,053. 89). Milton Keynes also has a much lower noise and light pollution score (27. 5/100) compared to other cities in the top ten. England’s capital, London, ranks highly, as does Wales’ capital, Cardiff, but for very different reasons. London boasts the...

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> “Well, you’re the designer” is the design podcast from Solopress, where we discuss the challenges faced by commercial graphic designers.

- Published: 2024-01-31
- Modified: 2024-01-31
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/well-youre-the-designer-a-graphic-design-podcast-from-solopress/
- Categories: Art & Design, Solopress News, Tutorials

Solopress is excited to launch "Well, you're the designer... ", a brand-new podcast where we delve into the everyday challenges and nuances of graphic design. It's a journey from initial briefs to final sign-offs, with plenty of practical insights along the way that are sure to interest customers of solopress. com. Perfect for designers and marketers, this podcast is your insider guide to navigating the design world - and the client/agency relationship - with ease and expertise. Three for one on graphic design podcasts! As a special treat for our launch, we've released three new episodes all at once: Episode 1: Make the logo bigger It's a request every designer hears. But is it always the right move? Join Matt and Rich as they dissect the aesthetic and commercial implications of supersizing logos. https://youtu. be/oSrdvanfVio Or listen to Ep 1 here Episode 2: Show me a few versions The all-too-common client brief: "Show me a few versions, I'll know it when I see it. " This episode unravels how this approach can lead to analysis paralysis and its impact on brand identity. https://youtu. be/Ci6SYTjZ7fg Or listen to Ep 2 here Episode 3: Faded background image with centralised text A persistent design trend dissected. Why do clients love faded backgrounds with centralised text, and what are the pitfalls? The answers unfold in this episode. https://youtu. be/kdINMKMznbs Or listen to Ep 3 here Subscribe for your regular dose of design podcasts Stay ahead in the design game. Subscribe to our YouTube channel...

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> Get your marketing calendar 2024 to keep you organised throughout the year so you can plan, prepare and produce all your campaigns on time.

- Published: 2024-01-03
- Modified: 2025-01-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/free-uk-marketing-calendar-2025/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

As 2024 winds to a close, we’re all wondering the same thing: Where did the time go? If you don’t want 2025 to pass in a blur, a well-planned marketing calendar is essential to keep your business on course. To help you prepare for the year ahead, we’re offering two practical calendar options to suit your needs. We've designed both to help you make the most of every opportunity in 2025: A2 Wall Planner Perfect for visualising the entire year at a glance, this FREE printed planner features key dates and plenty of space to map out your plans. Downloadable PDF planner This digital option is packed with key dates to help you kickstart the year on the right foot. Simply download it, fill it in, and start planning your campaigns. Why choose a Wall Planner? Wall Planners are an unbeatable way to visualise your goals and plans for the year. Whether it’s upcoming campaigns, team schedules, or key deadlines, a wall planner ensures you’re always in sync. Here’s why you’ll love it: Clear year-at-a-glance overview – With all key dates included, you’ll never miss a beat. Customisable space for notes – Use it to jot down deadlines, events, or personal reminders. Perfect for collaboration – Hang it in your office to keep everyone aligned. What’s included on our free Wall Planner? Our A2 Wall Planner comes pre-filled with: All UK bank holidays in 2025 Major religious and cultural observances National and international awareness days Patron saint days National and...

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> We uncover the best European cities for part-time workers based on job availability, salaries, and the cost of utilities transport and rent.

- Published: 2024-01-02
- Modified: 2024-01-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/exploring-europes-part-time-paradises-unveiling-the-best-cities-for-flexible-work/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Entrepreneurs

Ideas about how and when we work have undergone huge changes in recent years— and that evolution looks set to continue. Flexible working arrangements are shifting from a perk to an expectation, and employers seeking to recruit from the broadest pool of talent and experience are recognising this shift. At Solopress, we also understand the growing appeal of part-time work for employees seeking a better work-life balance or to develop portmanteau careers and side hustles. That's why we embarked on a comprehensive study to discover the best European cities for part-time workers. Our research meticulously analysed various metrics, including the number of part-time jobs, average salaries, cost of utilities and monthly transport , and rent prices, across popular European cities. This article aims to guide those seeking the ideal location for part-time work, whether it's for a seasonal boost or a long-term lifestyle choice. The Best Cities for part-time workers Our top ten list, derived from rigorous data analysis, reveals the leading European cities for part-time work. Perhaps unexpectedly, Albania’s capital Tirana stands out, not just for its abundance of part-time roles, but also for its commendable cost of living prices. . In fact, the Balkan nations dominate our top ten, due to low living costs and high job availability. Albania’s capital Tirana comes top The best European cities for part-time workers Rank City Country No. of part time jobs Average salary Price of utilities Monthly transport pass Average rent 1 Tirana Albania 71 £486. 02 £83. 47 £14. 26...

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> This Adobe InDesign tutorial takes you through paragraph styles, text wrapping images and how to effectively use quotes.

- Published: 2023-12-20
- Modified: 2023-12-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/adobe-indesign-tutorial-paragraph-styles-text-wrap/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

In the dynamic world of digital design, the ability to create visually striking and efficiently structured documents is paramount. At Solopress, we understand the importance of these skills for businesses and design enthusiasts alike. That's why we're thrilled to introduce our latest YouTube tutorial: a comprehensive guide to using Adobe InDesign for creating impactful quotes and seamless designs. Why This Tutorial Matters Adobe InDesign, renowned for its versatility and precision, is a cornerstone in the toolkit of any designer. Whether you're crafting business proposals, marketing materials, or personal projects, InDesign's features can significantly enhance your work. Our tutorial is meticulously crafted to help you harness these capabilities, ensuring your designs are not only attractive but also professionally polished. Key Learnings from the Tutorial Producing Consistent, Stylish Copy: Your written content is as crucial as your design. This segment of the tutorial focuses on creating attention-grabbing quotes that stand out. We'll guide you through font selection, spacing, and alignment to ensure your text complements your design ethos. Automating Page Numbering: One of the more tedious tasks in layout design is page numbering. Our tutorial simplifies this process, teaching you how to automate it. This invaluable skill saves time and reduces manual errors, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of your project. Mastering Text Wrap with Images: Integrating text and images can be challenging, especially when striving for a seamless blend. This part of the tutorial is dedicated to the art of text wrap. You'll learn how to make your...

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> Southend United Football Club and Solopress crafted a seasonal surprise for all season ticket holders with a personal Christmas Card.

- Published: 2023-12-04
- Modified: 2023-12-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/it-wouldnt-be-christmas-without-cards/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Tags: Christmas, Christmas Cards, Greeting Cards

In collaboration with Southend United Football Club, Solopress has crafted a seasonal surprise for all Southend season ticket holders with a personal Christmas Card. With 2023 nearing an end, the timing seemed perfect to reach out to over 3,000 loyal fans and thank them for their continued support, during what has been an extremely challenging time for the side and its fans. A 10-point deduction early in the season for failing to clear tax debts and a change in ownership for the club led to a nerve-racking first half of the season, but thankfully things are finally on the up at Roots Hall. As front-of-shirt sponsors for the 2023/24 season, Solopress is proud to contribute its Christmas Card printing services to help connect the club with its supporters at this time. To spin a seasonal twist, our talented team went behind-the-scenes with Blues’ top goal scorer, Harry Cardwell, known to fans as ‘Cards’, dressed up as Santa. Southend United's commercial executive, Rylee Doe, added: "We are extremely grateful to Solopress for this incredibly kind gesture to reward our loyal season cardholders. It has been a rocky year for all associated with the club, but Christmas brings us a time to reflect and look forward to what will hopefully be a prosperous 2024. "I know our supporters, like the club, will be eternally grateful to Solopress for their continued support and we look forward to many more seasons together. " Follow Solopress' steps After going behind-the-scenes at Roots Hall and then...

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> The world's oldest football programme turned 150-years-old. We tell the story behind the game that was historical for more than one reason!

- Published: 2023-11-30
- Modified: 2023-12-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-worlds-oldest-football-programme/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

Football programmes remain a popular piece of matchday merchandise for many fans. Last year alone, over 3. 12 million were sold throughout the 2022/2023 Premier League season. Their success and stability in the game started 150 years ago when the oldest known football programme was produced. One for the records Cast your mind back to December 6th, 1873. The FA Cup final had been played twice, the first FIFA World Cup was still 57 years away, Manchester United had another five years until its existence, and VAR wouldn’t stain the beautiful game for another 146 years. On a blustery winter morning in Connecticut, 150 years ago, a match between Yale College and Eton College was recorded on the oldest known football programme. Unfortunately, Eton were unable to bring it home, as they lost the game 2-1. Nor were they able to bring home the programme itself, which didn’t resurface for another 100 years when it was discovered inside a lost scrapbook. This printed relic contained four pages, a front and back cover and two internal pages. Its front cover highlighted the participating teams, date, location and sport, while the two internal pages listed the 11 players on either team. Left blank in the original document, the back cover contained lines to be filled in at the owner's discretion. This included opportunities to record the name of the referee, the judges from Eton and Yale, and the score accompanied by the goal scorers. Though some programmes were produced earlier in America,...

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> This InDesign tutorial shows you how to use image grids and character styles to save time and improve consistency when designing for print.

- Published: 2023-11-29
- Modified: 2023-11-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/adobe-indesign-tutorial-image-grids-character-styles/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: InDesign

Building on the success of our first InDesign tutorial, this next episode dives deeper into essential shortcuts that can help every designer. Save time with character styles, a technique perfect for creating consistent branding, and you can elevate the quality and precision of your designs by mastering image grids. Inspiration from the pitch to the page In this second episode of our series, we draw inspiration from the sleek and functional design of Brighton's programme. The three-column layout, a staple in their design, serves as our template, demonstrating how to effectively balance text and imagery for an engaging visual experience. Creating image grids with precision Our tutorial begins with the construction of image grids. We explore the use of InDesign's rectangle frame tool, emphasizing the importance of precision and alignment. By utilizing keyboard shortcuts and tools like the gap tool, we demonstrate how to create evenly-spaced image grids that enhance the visual appeal of your layout. Placing and scaling images Once the grid is set, we walk you through the process of inserting and scaling images. This part of the tutorial focuses on achieving a balanced and proportional look, similar to a clipping mask, ensuring that your images fit perfectly within the designated frames. Implementing character styles for consistent text formatting The highlight of our tutorial is the implementation of character styles. This feature in InDesign is a game-changer for ensuring consistent and efficient text formatting. We guide you through setting up a new character style, adjusting font choices, and...

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> For a venue's perspective on exhibiting at shows and events, we spoke with Brian Charity, from Exhibition Centre Liverpool.

- Published: 2023-11-20
- Modified: 2023-11-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/exhibit-like-an-expert-venue-insights-from-exhibition-centre-liverpool/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Entrepreneurs, Exhibitions & Trade Shows

Trade shows and events are complex, multifaceted undertakings where the choice of venue can make or break the experience. To gain insights from a venue's perspective, we spoke with Brian Charity, one of the senior event managers with Exhibition Centre Liverpool, a renowned complex of exhibition venues in the UK. Exhibition Centre Liverpool is a complex with exhibition spaces that host such events as The Manufacturer Live, Comic Con Liverpool, The Liverpool Wedding Show, The National Beauty Show UK. When I spoke to Brian he’d just been working on a show called the Liverpool Cat Extravaganza. When I asked if Cat’s were allowed to attend, he said “yes, of course! There was even a Cat Walk! ” One thing that becomes clear from talking to Brian is that the venue is just as invested in an event’s success as the organiser and exhibitors. He was full of advice and information about how a safe, secure, efficient and ultimately successful show could be achieved. Collaborative marketing Marketing an event is vital, and the venue can play a role in helping with this. Venue often offer marketing packages to organisers as part of the deal when hiring the venue. They typically include display space, brochure space, web presence, mail outs and e-shots which organisers can use to promote their event. “Some clients want a dedicated marketing campaign. Some are happy to do it themselves,” says Brian, “if you're putting on a ticketed event and you've picked your space then maybe you might...

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> Thanks to Solopress Charity Partnerships, UK charities will not only shop VAT-free, but will also save 10% on all orders at solopress.com.

- Published: 2023-11-06
- Modified: 2023-11-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-launches-new-charity-partnerships-initiative/
- Categories: Solopress News

Solopress is proud to launch Solopress Charity Partnerships, a way for UK registered charities to save on print and gain access to content and resources specially designed to support charities. This new initiative means any UK registered charity will not only be able to shop VAT-free if eligible, but will also save an additional 10% on all orders at solopress. com. The 10% discount is available across the entire product range, including Flyers and Leaflets, Roller Banners, Posters, Christmas Cards, Calendars and much more. It’s simple and free to sign up for Solopress Charity Partnerships: Go to solopress. com/charity Fill out the form with your details and zero-rated VAT eligibility Our team will verify your account Start saving on your print! Solopress' Managing Director, Simon Cooper, commented: “The charity sector represents a significant portion of our customer base, and we’ve wanted to improve our offering to them for some time. “With Solopress Charity Partnerships, I’m proud to say we can now offer charities print that’s even more cost-effective, as well as sharing supportive content that can help them achieve their goals. ” Once each charity's account has been verified on the Charity Commission's register, the prices they see while browsing Solopress’ website will be discounted by 10% automatically, with VAT also being removed if eligible to be zero-rated.

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> Experts responsible for highly successful UK trade shows give us their fresh perspective and valuable insights on the art of exhibiting.

- Published: 2023-10-27
- Modified: 2023-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/exhibit-like-an-expert-the-organisers-perspective/
- Categories: Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibitions

In order to help anyone planning to exhibit at a trade show, we’ve been creating a lot of useful video and blog content as part of our Exhibit Like An Expert series. So far, we’ve heard from exhibitors, agencies and stand designers. This time around we are speaking to the people that organise business expos and trade shows. By speaking to the experts responsible for putting on these events, we achieve a fresh perspective on the art of exhibiting. To that end, we spoke to the organisational minds behind some highly successful UK trade shows: the Your Business Expo series of events and The Print Show. Meet the experts Martin and Kerry Lewis-Stevenson, along with Marketing and Events Manager Devon Luffrum, organise Your Business Expo events on behalf of Pulse Media Group. They arrange trade events for business communities across the Midlands where entrepreneurs and business owners can come to find new clients and suppliers and to build their networks. Event Director Chris Davies from Link Publishing was involved with the very first Print Show in 2015. Since then, it’s become the foremost print industry event in the UK. Serving as a focus for all areas of the industry, The Print Show is where the UK trade comes to unveil new tech, showcase products and services and build bonds between businesses. Preparation, preparation, preparation The first thing that all our organisers were unanimously keen to encourage was preparation. Nearly all exhibitor’s who experience an unsuccessful show can trace their lack...

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> In this video guide, Graphic Designer Oscar Jackson creates a football programme in order to show you how to set up a document in InDesign.

- Published: 2023-10-11
- Modified: 2023-11-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/setting-up-a-print-ready-document-in-indesign/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: InDesign

For many fans, football programmes are integral to the match-day experience. For graphic designers, they’re the perfect opportunity to flex their InDesign skills. In this step-by-step video guide, Graphic Designer and football fanatic, Oscar Jackson walks you through the process of setting up a document in Adobe InDesign, making sure it's prepped and ready for beautiful content all about the beautiful game. Subscribe to our channel here and click the bell icon to get notified when we upload a design tutorial: The perfect formation Follow along as Oscar sets out the framework for the programme, selecting the appropriate number of pages and columns. He'll also guide you through the process of setting up the correct margins and bleed parameters. Oscar finishes up by showing you how to create your front cover by placing and aligning a PSD file into InDesign, and how to optimise InDesign’s display performance so that you can review your artwork using the highest picture quality. A season-long campaign This is the first video in a series which we will be releasing during the 2023/24 season, Oscar’s guide shows how to create a layout that will result in a digestible and cohesive document, whether it’s a football programme, magazine or business brochure. Watch out for more design tutorials that take inspiration from the programmes of the 20 Premier League clubs, as we create our own programme based on the designs and techniques that they have used. Transcription: Introduction to InDesign Document Setup In this video, I'll be...

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> We spoke with Solopress’ Head of Marketing, Glen Eckett, who oversaw our exhibition stand and strategy at The Print Show 2023.

- Published: 2023-10-07
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/creating-an-exhibition-stand-and-strategy/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

Over the last year, we’ve tracked down and spoken to experts from different areas of the exhibition sphere. When The Print Show 2023 came around, it was time for us to put what we’d learned into action. We combined previous years’ experiences with top tips from industry experts and implemented them for ourselves. Solopress’ Head of Marketing, Glen Eckett, oversaw our exhibition stand and strategy at this year’s show. After an amazing three days filled with coffee and conversations with customer new and existing, we put Glen on the spot to pinpoint what made our time at The Print Show 2023 so successful. What was the exhibition planning process like and how long in advance did you start? The The Print Show 2022 was the first stand I had been responsible for organising. As the 2021 show hadn't taken place, I had over a year to plan our stand. With that experience under my belt, this year’s took less time and I started planning it in January. It’s a little excessive, but I like to feel organised. My personal way of dealing with the show is to make sure I always feel in control! What concerns did you have in mind when approaching your exhibition stand design for The Print Show 2023? Last year’s stand was such a success, we decided to use the same agency to support us again. My main question was, how to freshen up our exhibition stand? I needed to figure out what we wanted to...

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> As a pair of tickets from the night Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford's Theatre fetch £215,453. we look at tickets as memorabilia

- Published: 2023-09-27
- Modified: 2023-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/tickets-memorabilia-thats-worth-more-than-face-value/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

Tickets have long served as keys to experiences, granting us access to performances, journeys, and competitions. But their value often transcends their immediate purpose. Take, for instance, the recent sale of theatre tickets from the night Abraham Lincoln was assassinated; these relics fetched an astonishing £215,453 at a Boston auction house. Such instances spotlight how tickets can morph into invaluable memorabilia, capturing moments that have resonated through history or defined an era. This blog delves into the burgeoning market for collectable tickets, examining their worth not just as entry passes but as treasured keepsakes. From historical railway tickets sold for a premium in the UK, to high-priced sports tickets across the pond, and even rare music concert stubs, we explore the intricate dynamics that set the price and value of these unique artefacts. A historic sale: Abraham Lincoln's final theatre experience The recent sale of theatre tickets from the night Abraham Lincoln was assassinated serves as a monumental example of the worth assigned to memorabilia. Sold at a Boston auction house for £215,453, these tickets, dated 14 April 1865, offer far more than just historical novelty. They represent an irreversible moment in American history. What makes these examples especially compelling are the handwritten details like the prime front-row seat assignments. It's not just about owning a piece of paper; it's about holding a tangible link to a seminal moment in time. Moreover, their rarity adds to their value: only one other ticket from that fateful night is known to exist,...

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> Attending your first exhibition can be daunting. An exhibition agency can help alleviate some of the stress you may experience.

- Published: 2023-09-21
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/working-with-an-exhibition-agency/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

Navigating the complex landscape of exhibitions can be an intimidating task for any business, especially if you're aiming to make a lasting impression. This is where the expertise of an exhibition agency can prove invaluable. An agency can offer a tailored strategy that turns your exhibition presence from a simple booth into a memorable experience for your clients and potential customers. From curating the perfect visuals to providing on-site support, agencies can be a one-stop solution for amplifying your brand's impact. Working with an agency for the first time can be daunting. We drafted in Dan Edwards, from Bloody Lovely Branding Co, an expert in working with an agency, specifically for exhibitions. With experience at designing stands in the UK, Germany and Austria, Dan can shed some light on working with an agency. What can an agency offer in the context of exhibitions? An agency in the exhibition world serves as your external partner, equipped with a specialised skill set for planning, executing, and sometimes, even marketing your exhibition. While many think of agencies merely as designers and suppliers of display materials and promotional items, a full-service agency offers a comprehensive package: from strategic planning and brand messaging to on-site event management. An agency’s ability to focus solely on your exhibition efforts frees up your internal resources, enabling you to maintain a focus on your core business activities. Dan told us: “It’s important to have a clear idea of who you are speaking to, knowing who will be at the...

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> Learn how APIs facilitate print sourcing and reselling. Discover Soloflo, Solopress's new API, and its benefits for operational efficiency

- Published: 2023-09-19
- Modified: 2023-12-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/what-is-a-print-api-how-soloflo-can-help-businesses-who-sell-print/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Industry News, Solopress News

When your business involves sourcing print for resale, finding avenues for greater efficiency can be a game-changer. Using a print provider that offers an Application Programming Interface (API) can be a strategic asset for any organisation needing to coordinate frequently with its suppliers. As Solopress grows, so do its customers – in both scale and scope. After receiving significant feedback on the subject, it became clear in the last 12 months that the time was right to introduce our own API solution. The integration of an API makes processes even more streamlined for our clients, especially for larger businesses, print resellers, and sectors that benefit from seamless transactions with print services. Defining an API in the print industry context So what is an API? To anyone involved in the world of IT, an API (Application Programming Interface) is a blanket term for any interface that allows disparate systems to communicate with and instruct one another. In the world of print, however, an API is understood to be the application that acts as a bridge between print resellers—or businesses dealing with print—and their printing suppliers, enabling smooth communication. This digital conduit allows for automated ordering, real-time updates, and streamlined operations. The challenges faced by businesses sourcing print For businesses in sectors such as content creation, tech start-ups, or traditional print reselling, sourcing print efficiently is critical. These companies value building relationships with their customers, securing competitive deals, and effectively distributing products. Operationally, the task of processing customer orders and manually inputting...

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> We spoke to seasoned exhibitioners to pass on their experiences and advice to help you with your exhibition materials at your next event.

- Published: 2023-09-14
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/6-tips-for-exhibition-materials-at-your-event/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

Exhibition materials and promotional items plant the seed of your brand inside potential customers' heads. Having a piece of your business with them long after the event, alongside the experience you produced on the day, provides the perfect ground for this seed to flourish into a potentially loyal and engaged future customer. We spoke to our customers who are seasoned exhibitioners to pass on their experiences and advice so your next event can be a huge success! Here are six essential tips regarding exhibition materials to boost your brand awareness at your next trade show. 1 - Exhibition materials: crafting the foundation The foundation of any event is the quality and authenticity of the exhibition materials you provide. Consider these items as the building blocks; they set the tone and form the initial impression. Whether you're going with elegantly textured Brochures, intricately designed Banners, or immersive backdrop designs, every element should resonate with brand identity. But more than just appearance, the tactile aspect can't be understated. In a digital age, the touch and feel of quality paper or an innovative material can distinguish your brand. For many visitors, it's these tangible elements that stick in memory. Create exhibition materials that resonate with both your brand image and customers. Branded Water Bottles are something all customers will use no matter their industry. Ask yourself, are the promotional gifts you're planning to provide at your event relevant to your customers? Make sure your content is relevant to your client base. Bring premium...

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> Solopress surveyed 2,000 British people to uncover their dreams, despairs and biggest barriers to entrepreneurship.

- Published: 2023-09-08
- Modified: 2023-09-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/the-biggest-barriers-to-entrepreneurship/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Entrepreneurs

For many Brits, the dream is to work for themselves, whether that’s a passion project that flourishes into full-time work or a sudden urge to go it alone. With almost 20,000 Brits searching ‘how to start a business’ each month, it’s clear we’re a nation full of budding entrepreneurs. However, if so many are considering flying solo, what barriers are potentially stopping their excursion? Solopress has surveyed 2,000 British people to uncover the dreams and despairs of our aspiring business owners to find out what the biggest barriers to entrepreneurship they face that's halting their ambitions. Three-quarters of employed Brits dream of becoming self-employed Imagining your dreams and living them are two very different prospects. For 74. 2% of Brits who don’t already own a business, pursuing their dream of becoming an entrepreneur remains an ambition. According to our survey, starting their venture in the retail sector is the most appealing industry to enter for aspiring business owners. Two similar sectors, health and wellness, and food and beverages, closely follow retail as the most popular industries for dreaming entrepreneurs to start their venture in. Our survey reveals that finance alongside manufacturing and production are the least popular industries for budding business owners. Interestingly, there’s a noticeable gender split in people hoping to manage their own company in the future. 82. 5% of men hope to open their own business one day, regardless of what sector it’s in. This figure slides slightly as at 68%, almost a third of females have...

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> Two charity veterans discuss how you can get charity support, with topics ranging from getting volunteers to choosing your trustee board.

- Published: 2023-08-29
- Modified: 2023-08-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/how-to-get-support-as-a-charity/
- Categories: Charity & Community

It’s easy to think you’re on your own when you start your venture as a charity. Your cause is unique to you, so how could others understand or help you? As with all forms of business, getting charity support is a necessity for growth through the good times and stability during those more challenging moments. We spoke with two experienced charity owners who’ve earned their stripes and understand the importance of getting charity support. Paul Sayer, the founder of Prost8 and Esther Taylor, the founder of Lady McAdden, both sat down with us to discuss the following subjects: Partnering with other charities Getting volunteers Making an annual report Recruiting trustees Dealing with hardships and setbacks Partnering with other charities Collaboration is key when you're starting a charity. The strength of unity can take your charity far beyond solitary ventures. To grow quickly, align with like-minded charities. Not only does this leverage shared resources, but it amplifies your reach, doubles your advocacy efforts, and promotes mutual growth. Make sure you're not stepping on each other’s toes; find charities with overlapping objectives, but distinct audiences or methods. Paul’s experience: If you partner with a charity, make sure they’re compatible with your cause. However, it’s important that they’re not too similar as this could become a conflict of interest as you will be competitors. For example, we work with Carla from The Endometriosis Foundation. We're happy to work with her because it's compatible as they’re a health charity too, however, we’re a charity...

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> With merch becoming an increasingly important revenue stream for music artists, we discover the top 30 artists with the most prized products

- Published: 2023-08-18
- Modified: 2023-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/music-artists-with-the-most-valuable-merchandise/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Merch is saving the music industry. At least that’s the view expressed by a number of commentators in recent months. In The Guardian, Lauren Cochrane highlighted the importance of merch as a revenue stream for artists. Justin Hawkins of The Darkness reacted to Cochrane’s piece via his YouTube Channel, adding that artists like himself are increasingly reliant on the higher percentage cut they receive from merch. That’s in contrast to the dwindling percentages they typically receive from ticket, record and digital sales. If merch sales are the new record sales, why not have a chart? In the tradition of pitting artists against one another in a race to the number one spot, we’ve created some charts of our own. Our team here at Solopress have analysed a myriad of merch metrics to find the top 30 artists with the most prized products. By looking at the price of merch advertised on eBay and artists' official websites, alongside the search volumes around their merchandise, we’ve been able to uncover which artists have the most internationally in-demand merch. The music artists with the most in-demand merch When we want to get our hands on a piece of merchandise, most often, we’ll start by Googling it. With that principle in mind, we looked at the search volume for terms such as “*Artist name* merch” to determine the artists with the most in-demand products. Taylor Swift Fans queue to buy merch The top 20 music artists with the most in-demand merch in 2023: Rank...

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> He's written, drawn & edited comics from The Beano to Viz, Doctor Stange to 2000AD. We spoke to Kev about his career & new graphic novels

- Published: 2023-08-14
- Modified: 2023-08-14
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/exclusive-interview-with-marvel-comic-artist-kev-f-sutherland/
- Categories: Art & Design, Customer Stories, Print Inspiration

Few people know world of comic artistry as well as Kev F Sutherland. He's worked with with some of the most notable franchises series around, like Marvel's Doctor Strange, The Beano and Viz. We were thrilled and honoured to be able to speak to Kev and discuss the multifaceted landscape of comics. From the nostalgic strips like Dennis the Menace and the Bash Street Kids, through classic titles like 2000AD and Ghost Rider and on to his self-published Shakespearian and Biblical graphic novel adaptations, his career has been rich and diverse. https://youtu. be/Tb4nUO6G4xs Many talents Beyond his illustrious career in comics, Kev has also made his mark in live performance. As the creator of The Sitcom Trials and a member of The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre, he’s also shown his flair for comedy. Our wide-ranging discussion not only revisits the history of comics but also delves into subjects like: The way comic book art has evolved over time. How AI is reshaping the future for comic artists. Kev's fascinating blend of Shakespearean literature and comic art, particularly his latest graphic novel, Richard The Third, now available on Kickstarter. Comic Conversation Why not take a moment to explore this captivating conversation and even subscribe to Solopress' YouTube Channel for more content on marketing, design, and print-related topics? This interview offers an insightful look at the comic world from a seasoned artist's perspective. From his debut graphic novel Findlay Macbeth in 2020 to his educational efforts in Comic Art Masterclasses, Kev's...

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> In this video, we ask exhibitors & attendees at the Milton Keynes Your Business Expo, for trade show tips to improve your exhibiting skills.

- Published: 2023-08-03
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/trade-show-tips-and-tricks/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibitions

In this video, we explore the world of exhibitions and trade shows by talking to visitors at the Your Business Expo in Milton Keynes, held in June 2023. We interview exhibitors and attendees, gathering important information on trade show marketing and useful tips that can help you improve your exhibiting skills. Show and tell We recently had the pleasure of attending the Your Business Expo in Milton Keynes, and what an event it was! Bustling aisles filled with enthusiastic local and national business professionals, all gathered in one place to network, share innovative ideas, and showcase what they do best. Our cameras were rolling, capturing the energy and excitement of this fantastic trade show. We were thrilled to be a part of such a vibrant community, where creativity and collaboration were the order of the day. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=_O6jXNGj15E A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who stopped by our stand. Your insights and conversations truly enriched our experience, and we're incredibly grateful for the time you took to speak with us. Whether you were there or couldn't make it this time, we invite you to take a look at our footage and relive the day with us. Stay tuned for more from the Your Business Expo Milton Keynes! Why not subscribe to our YouTube Channel and check out our previous videos that explore marketing, design and all sorts of print-related topics? Design, display and demeanour! This detailed video features great insights from individuals at the sharp end...

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> We collected stats on networking culture in major cities across the globe to create a unique index that ranks them from best to worst.

- Published: 2023-07-28
- Modified: 2023-07-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-global-cities-for-networking/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Entrepreneurs

Meeting people and sharing ideas are part of what makes us human. It feels like we’re hardwired to seek out networking opportunities. However, whether or not we find those opportunities can depend on where we live. Networking lets us cultivate contacts, raise our profiles, foster collaborations, and uncover opportunities. When we set out to achieve those things, it’s good to know if we’re in the right place to make those all important connections. Moreover, does the city we live in have the culture and resources in place to facilitate those connections? Join us as we embark on a journey to unveil the best cities worldwide for networking. From bustling capitals to hidden gems, these cities offer the perfect ecosystem for encouraging connections and nurturing friendships that make working life more enjoyable and more fruitful. On the other slide of the coin, we’ll also look at cities where resources associated with networking are lacking, making it more challenging to mingle with your peers. London and Berlin rank top for best cities for networking London In assessing the networking potential of cities worldwide, we collected statistics around the major factors that contribute to a conducive networking culture. With some clever number crunching, we were able to create a unique index that ranks major global cities from best to worst in terms of networking possibilities. We compiled the ranking based on factors such as networking events, rentable event spaces, coworking availability, wi-fi speeds, and to lubricate proceedings, we even factored in the price...

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> We spoke to veterans of the charity sector who discussed in detail their top 12 tips when starting out fundraising for your charity.

- Published: 2023-07-21
- Modified: 2023-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/how-to-start-a-fundraiser/
- Categories: Charity & Community

Starting out in fundraising can seem daunting, but it's all about taking the first step. We’ve spoken to two veterans of the charity sector who have over 50 years of combined experience in raising funds and awareness. Paul Sayer, founder of Prost8, and Jonny Wineberg, founder and director of We Stand Together, have provided their invaluable knowledge on the following topics: Starting out in fundraising Goal setting Building a database of subscribers Raising funds Fundraising methods Events-based fundraising Promoting events The value of print marketing Collecting donations Restricted and unrestricted funds Maintaining donor relationships Celebrity endorsements Starting out in fundraising Begin by defining your cause, setting a clear goal, and identifying your target donors. Develop a fundraising plan that outlines your strategies, timelines, and resources required. Identify potential donors, devise a strategic plan, and craft a compelling story. Research what motivates your donors to give and implement fundraising strategies that engage these reasons. Start with a small, manageable campaign before scaling up to larger fundraising initiatives. It's important to note that fundraising isn’t just about the money, it's about building strong connections with your supporters and spreading awareness about your cause. Paul’s experience:  “Running a charity is exactly the same as running a business. It’s the same principle as creating a business plan for your charity. “You've got to cost it out. So for year one, it might cost you £80,000 to run your charity. You then have to look outside those running costs and think: ‘to raise that money,...

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> This guide informs local charities the best ways to raise funds and awareness, with input from two experienced local charity's.

- Published: 2023-07-21
- Modified: 2023-07-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/a-local-charitys-guide-to-fundraising/
- Categories: Charity & Community

Fundraising as a smaller charity can be challenging. Engaging with your local community is essential when gaining a foothold in your sector and area. We spoke with two Southend-based charities who shared their wisdom on the importance of involving your local community to bolster your fundraising campaigns. Stephen Mansfield, director of fundraising and communications of HARP, and Daniel Wanna, event manager for Southend RNLI have provided their invaluable knowledge on the following topics: Starting out in fundraising Goal setting Building a database of subscribers Raising funds Events-based fundraising Promoting events The value of print marketing Collecting donations Restricted and unrestricted funds Maintaining donor relationships Starting out in fundraising Begin fundraising with a clear vision and tailored plan for your local community. Identify the unique needs and challenges and show how your charity can effectively address them. Create a compelling narrative that highlights the immediate impact of local donations, benefiting individuals and families. Use grassroots strategies like word-of-mouth, community events, and local media to raise awareness and connect with potential donors. Emphasise the power of local giving to inspire support and create lasting change. Stephen’s experience: Look at your organisation and find out what’s successful or not based on your income. It’s important to make the most of your networks and work with people or businesses in your local area. Personally, we work with local businesses and churches. These relationships are ones that we work hard to nurture, maintain and build. Pick aspects of fundraising that can maximise the effort you...

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> We spoke to Californian stand-up and 7-time Edinburgh Fringe veteran Sameer Katz, about the role Flyers and Posters play in promoting a show.

- Published: 2023-07-19
- Modified: 2023-07-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/promoting-a-show-at-the-edinburgh-fringe/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

As the spotlight swings towards the Scottish capital, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe is ready to take centre stage once more. A month-long marathon of laughter and creativity, the Fringe is famed for being the largest arts festival in the world, providing a platform for performers of all stripes. Yet, amidst the digital age, one tradition stands firm, the use of Flyers and Posters to promote shows and performances. Edinburgh's cityscape transforms into a canvas of colour during the Fringe, adorned with an array of captivating Flyers and Posters. Performers, whether experienced veterans or starry-eyed newcomers, take to the streets, armed with stacks of freshly printed Flyers and a sense of anticipation that's infectious. This tradition isn't just a marketing tactic, it's a symbol of the festival's spirit - creative, dynamic and personal. Sameer Katz shares his Edinburgh experience We recently sat down with Sameer Katz, a seasoned stand-up hailing from Orange County, California, who will be returning to the Fringe for his seventh year. Known for his razor-sharp wit and unique perspectives, Katz brings a fresh offering, "Love Is A Lie", to this year's Fringe. We had the pleasure of talking to Sameer about his experiences promoting his Edinburgh shows. Here's how our conversation unfolded: Can you describe the process of creating a unique and catchy show title and a compelling show description? "Every January, long before I even think about the Fringe, I get an email saying it’s time to submit your Fringe show. So every January, I freak...

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> Herd In The City is the sculpture art trail taking over Southend-On-Sea this summer and Solopress is proud to support the fun!

- Published: 2023-07-17
- Modified: 2023-07-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-herd-in-the-city/
- Categories: Charity & Community

Herd In The City is the sculpture art trail taking over Southend-On-Sea this summer and we’re proud to support the fun by sponsoring the event with our own Solopress sculpture! Having already sponsored Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in central London, we’re happy to help with this spectacular trail that’s closer to home. For the next two months, starting on July 14th and ending on September 4th, you can join in the adventure over the holidays. What is Herd In The City? Herd In The City is the spectacular outdoor art trail where over 45 sculpted Elephants have been dotted around the city of Southend, with members of the herd being found in Southend, Shoeburyness and Leigh. This art trail, run by Wild In Art, is returning to the city following the success of the Hares About Town trail in 2021. Fun for all the family, this art trail is completely free to follow for the seven weeks it's open and gives you the chance to become a tourist in your own city. Herd mentality Each elephant is sculpted by a local artist and sponsored by both local and national businesses. These giant elephants on the trail will be supported by a herd of mini elephants which have been designed by local schools and community groups. In partnership with Havens Hospices, you can use the trail map or app to help you locate any stray gentle giants around the city. Elephants aren’t known to be evolved to survive in the Southend...

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> Solopress Design has five tiers of support to get your artwork print ready. If you need help with your design, fill out our online form.

- Published: 2023-07-17
- Modified: 2023-07-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-solopress-design-serves-chris-a-winner/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Chris Phillips used Solopress Design to help smash his fundraising target as he raised money for mental health charities. After enduring an his 11-hour tennis match, Chris raised an incredible £14,000 for the mental health charity, MIND. With Wimbledon underway, Chris was inspired by the historic longest tennis match ever, played on the grass court in 2010, between Nicolas Mahut and John Isner. It was played over three days with a final score of 6-4,3-6,6-7,7-6,70-68. Break-point For this challenge, he wanted some print to propel his event and acknowledge his sponsors. However, without any experience in creating artwork for print, Chris got in touch with our Solopress Design team to get him onto a winner. Chris said: “I had no idea about the design for our Banner or Leaflets. All I knew was that we needed a Banner with our sponsors on it. “I explained what my print was for and what we needed, then I sent Glenn some photos for him to do the rest. ” Great service Chris worked through his artwork with our talented in-house designer, Glenn. The process was simple. Firstly, he went online to Solopress Design and filled out the online form. Then, he uploaded any relevant files he had to help Glenn start the design. With the design process underway, Glenn and Chris developed their ideas over email However, customers can request to speak with a designer over the phone too if that is their preference. Chris said: “I had a logo for the...

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> Solopress’ Managing Director, Simon Cooper, visited 10 Downing Street to advocate the vast potential of the print industry.

- Published: 2023-06-30
- Modified: 2023-11-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/solopress-advocates-for-the-future-of-the-uk-print-industry-at-10-downing-street/
- Categories: Print Industry News, Solopress News

Solopress’ Managing Director, Simon Cooper, visited 10 Downing Street on the 22nd of June with the Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) to advocate the vast potential of our industry and the promising future print could have with the support of our government. IPIA: A Champion for the Print Industry The IPIA was founded in 1990 as a not-for-profit trade association committed to the growth and development of the print industry. It comprises over 400 members including printers, print managers, service providers, and equipment manufacturers, and has been an influential advocate for the industry. They collaborate with a host of other leading trade organisations to promote the industry, raise awareness, and support the future of print. The IPIA's ultimate goal is to foster a stronger, larger print industry, using its influence to highlight the industry’s vast potential and the promising future it could have with government support. UK Print Industry: A Manufacturing Success Story The UK print industry, with a history dating back to the granting of a Royal Charter to the Stationers Guild in 1557, has grown to consist of more than 4,000 businesses. The UK is a leading developer and exporter of security print-related products, a global innovator in ink manufacturing, and home to major global print technology brands. The print industry directly contributes £14 billion each year to the economy, employs 112,000 skilled workers across 8,000+ businesses, and generates £3 billion in wage contributions. In comparison to other sectors, the UK’s print industry has managed to maintain its position as a global...

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> Solopress introduces carbon offsetting for select products, enabling customers to order carbon-neutral prints. A significant stride in sustainability.

- Published: 2023-06-30
- Modified: 2023-07-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/carbon-offset-your-print-with-solopress/
- Categories: Eco Friendly, Solopress News

Solopress are proud to announce that customers now have the option to offset their print purchase and delivery when ordering certain products with us. Due to the huge popularity of the Solopress Green range, we have introduced this option so customers can now order carbon-neutral print and delivery on selected products from our range. This option is currently available on some of our best-selling products, with the view to making this feature accessible across the majority of our range in the future. Customers can now offset the carbon on their orders for: Flyers & Leaflets Folded Flyers & Leaflets Business Cards Brochures & Booklets Books What is carbon offsetting? Carbon offsetting is a way to help balance out the amount of carbon dioxide that we put into the atmosphere. There are plenty of complicated terms that get thrown about when talking about this topic. Let’s break them down. Greenhouse gases and carbon emissions First, it's important to understand that many of our everyday activities like driving a car, using electricity, or manufacturing products cause greenhouse gases. Gases are then released into the atmosphere. This release of greenhouse gases is often referred to as carbon emissions. The carbon footprint The total amount of greenhouse gases produced by an individual, organisation, event, or product is known as their "carbon footprint". Carbon offsetting Carbon offsetting is an attempt to balance out these emissions. The idea is that if you can't avoid creating some carbon emissions, you can "offset" them by investing in projects...

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> The way we conduct ourselves at trade shows can have a profound effect on our success. Here are 7 tips to optimise your presence on the day.

- Published: 2023-06-29
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/7-tips-to-engage-and-impress-at-trade-shows/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

The way we conduct ourselves at trade shows can have a profound effect on our success. Our attitudes, behaviours, and overall presentation can greatly impact the levels of engagement and outcome we experience. So, how can you exhibit like an expert and make the most of your trade show experience? We surveyed our customers to gather their experiences and comments to help us come up with this list of seven behaviours that can lead to trade show success. Tip 1: Prepare and rehearse There is a great deal of value in preparation and practice. Most businesses will invest a lot of time and effort into the logistics and materials involved in exhibiting trade shows, but it's equally important to prepare the team and have a plan on how you'll interact with visitors. Develop your pitch, role-play with colleagues, and anticipate potential questions. As S2 Design and Advertising suggests, "Do some sales practice. You need to be able to convey stuff quickly and simply - an elevator pitch, that does not sound too rehearsed or robotic. " Before the event, take some time to prepare for the trade show by revisiting our previous blog post, all about preparing for a trade show. Tip 2: Branded clothing Solopress MD Simon Cooper proudly sports his branded T-shirt, while TV's Gregg Wallace enjoys a branded beer. Clothing can be a powerful branding tool. Consider wearing branded attire that matches the colours and themes of your display materials to promote recognition and cohesion. You might...

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> Download our free 2023 Women's World Cup wall chart artwork and follow the tournament taking place in Australia and New Zealand.

- Published: 2023-06-27
- Modified: 2023-06-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/free-2023-womens-world-cup-wall-chart/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Football fever is going down under this summer for the Women’s World Cup 2023 finals. Starting on the 20th of July, this prestigious tournament hits the shores of Australia and New Zealand for the first time for either the men’s or women’s game. With a constant conveyor belt of games and the Australian time zones to compete against, a World Cup Wall Chart is a necessity to keep up with all the action! Our free downloadable template allows you to easily add your own logo and print a branded FIFA 2023 World Cup Wall Chart that gets you off the bench and into the action. Why a Wall Chart? Wall Charts are the best tool to keep handy when the women’s World Cup kicks off. Stay ahead and always know who’s playing at what time on which day. Keep on top of scores throughout the group stages and further into the depths of the tournament as it progresses. Build anticipation before games and maintain it afterwards with your printed partner for the next month. Keeping your brand on show throughout the tournament has many benefits! Branded Wall Planners: Keep your brand on target throughout the tournament. Gives your customers the best way to keep up with the final scores. Leaves your customers a special piece of memorabilia. While FIFA owns specific rights such as their logo and image of the trophy, other businesses remain in free space and unmarked when it comes to creating their own branded Planners. How to...

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> Morph’s epic art adventure is taking over the streets of central London this summer and Solopress are proud to sponsor the fun!

- Published: 2023-06-23
- Modified: 2023-11-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-supports-morphs-epic-art-adventure/
- Categories: Charity & Community
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Morph’s epic art adventure is taking over the streets of central London this summer and we’re proud to be supporting the fun with stunning Folded Leaflet trail maps and a Solopress-sponsored Morph sculpture! For the next two months, starting on June 19th and ending on August 20th, you can join in the adventure over the holidays. If you're in central London during those dates, share a selfie and tag us on appropriate social media platforms to enter our £500 prize draw! What is Morph’s Epic Art Adventure? Your challenge? To find and locate each sculpture within the next two months to unlock a series of rewards and fun facts. This is the UK’s first step-free art trail of its kind which is hosted by the charity, Whizz-Kidz, a charity for young wheelchair users. Free for the public to partake in, the trail consists of: 56 six-foot Morph sculptures 56 London landmarks 56 unique designs and stories Please sir - Can I have some Morph? Our Folded Leaflet trail maps or the downloadable app will help you navigate across landmarks, through London’s famous streets and over the River Thames to complete your quest. Trail maps are stocked across seven different sites: City of London Information Centre Guildhall Reception Guildhall Library Guildhall Art Gallery Barbican Library Shoe Lane Library Artizan Shoe Library Want to get your hands on one of these stunning Folded Leaflets? Be sure to check out the opening times of these locations on their website. ! Astromorph Based on...

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> Which cities across the world are the best for eco-conscious businesses? We embarked on research to identify best performing eco-cities.

- Published: 2023-06-22
- Modified: 2023-06-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/revealing-the-best-cities-for-eco-conscious-businesses/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Eco Friendly

With the world becoming ever more environmentally conscious, individuals and businesses across the globe are trying to make sustainability a higher priority in their day-to-day decision-making. But which cities across the world are the best for eco-conscious businesses? At Solopress, we are dedicated to supporting and fostering the transition to a green economy, and our Solopress Green range allows our customers to buy high-quality carbon-neutral print. That’s why we have embarked on this research to identify the cities around the world that are most conducive for eco-conscious businesses to thrive. Standards for Eco-Conscious Cities and Businesses Our study looks at the top 50 most sustainable cities in the world. We evaluated these cities on a variety of metrics including their sustainable development ranking, pollution score, air quality, the distance of mapped cycling routes, and the number of ‘B corporations’ in the country. A ‘B corporation’ is a company that meets certain social and environmental responsibilities set by an organisation called B Lab. It’s a high bar, and companies wishing to be known as B corporations must pass a rigorous assessment, amend the legal framework of their business and commit to two demanding pledges: the B Corp Agreement and the Declaration of Interdependence. When we came to look at the UK cities investing the most in sustainable alternatives, we tapped into Solopress’ own unique in-house data to determine the UK cities where businesses are investing the most in the Solopress Green range. The Best Global Cities for Eco-Conscious Businesses Vienna: top...

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> Read and watch how our graphic designers created an augmented reality poster and follow the process they used on Adobe Aero.

- Published: 2023-06-19
- Modified: 2023-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/creating-an-augmented-reality-poster/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

When our graphic designers, Matt and Oscar, were challenged to create an Augmented Reality poster for Hamzah Butt's debut fight, they embarked on a camp filled with learning, creativity, and triumph. The result was nothing short of spectacular. Learn how Matt and Oscar took themselves from complete novices to creating a knockout piece of print. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=RPbm47qXxMQ&t=463s A knockout challenge! Matt and Oscar had no prior experience with AR before this challenge. Matt added: “Before we were challenged to create an augmented reality poster, I knew absolutely nothing. I’d heard of it before but didn’t know what it was”. Matt went straight onto YouTube to delve into design tutorials, particularly focusing on Adobe Aero, which he had heard was the best software for this kind of project. The more Matt and Oscar learned about AR, the more excited they became. Matt added: “Honestly, when I started to understand what augmented reality was and the possibilities it held, I was gutted I hadn’t heard about it sooner! I was so excited to get stuck into the design process”. The training camp With a newfound understanding of AR, Matt and Oscar had to think beyond the traditional 2D designs. Matt said: “Myself and Oscar sat down to write a checklist of things we wanted to challenge ourselves to include in the design. Rather than designing something 2D, we had to envision how it could be brought to life in a 3D form”. Our designers knew they had to create two...

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> The Endometriosis Foundation recently attended its first exhibition and we caught up with them to see what they learned from the experience.

- Published: 2023-06-14
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/the-endometriosis-foundation-at-the-fertility-show/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

The Endometriosis Foundation recently attended its first exhibition, the Fertility Show, at London Olympia. After supporting them with exhibition print and advice for the show, we caught up with Carla Cressy, founder of The Endometriosis Foundation, to find out how they got on and what they learned from the experience. The build-up It was Carla’s first time exhibiting at this kind of event, so we shared with her some insights that we’d learned from our own experiences. We were also able to pass on the knowledge that we’ve learned from speaking to customers who are seasoned exhibitors. These insights allowed Carla to consider import and topics and questions ahead of the event and avoid surprises on the day itself. Key questions we discussed in the build-up to the Fertility Show were: How do we best stand out? How much room do we have and how can we utilise the space best? How best to tailor the information to fit with the event? What’s the best way to spread our message? Being constantly busy with other events before the show gave Carla plenty of opportunities to practice setting up her stand before the big day. Carla said: “We had two practice runs setting up our stand before we went so we definitely felt prepared. "We had a couple of test runs to practice like when we visited the West Ham women’s team. This meant, on the day we had absolutely no issues or stress about setting up! ” The exhibition The...

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> We’re delighted to announce the addition of the Agfa Oberon RTR3300, a dedicated roll-to-roll, digital inkjet printer.

- Published: 2023-06-09
- Modified: 2023-06-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/a-new-addition-the-agfa-oberon-rtr3300/
- Categories: Solopress News

At Solopress, we’re always looking to update our plant list to reflect advances in print technology. Joining our suite of large-format presses, we’re delighted to announce the addition of the Agfa Oberon RTR3300, a dedicated roll-to-roll, digital inkjet printer. Upon launch, the European Digital Press Association awarded it the title of best roll-to-roll large & wide format printing system in its size category. It will join our pair of Agfa Anapurna hybrid machines, and will initially be used for printing larger Posters and Roller Banners. Roll up, roll up The Oberon’s dual-roll feature means it can print on either one 3. 3m wide roll or two 1. 6m wide rolls in dual mode. This versatile functionality allows us to be more responsive to demand by adding to the adaptability and productivity within our large-format department. The new press also features a unique water-cooled table, which ensures the printing zone remains at room temperature. This offers us the ability to process a variety of heat-sensitive roll materials, including more cost-effective options. This added flexibility enables us to produce high-quality prints while optimising costs. It even has a built in light box for in situ quality checks on back-lit print jobs. Quick change The convenient media loading setup also helps us to reduce changeover times. Thanks to its innovative design, a single operator can load rolls of material quickly and easily. Lightweight carbon shafts also make the task less cumbersome for the operator. Combined with a free fall option for optimal media...

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> Readability is key! Check out our collection of the easiest fonts to read and follow our tips to make reading a breeze!

- Published: 2023-06-07
- Modified: 2023-06-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/legibility-unleashed-easiest-fonts-to-read/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

The easiest fonts to read transform confusion into comprehension. With the right font, your content's clarity skyrockets. It's where readability meets aesthetics. Remember, every character counts! What Makes a Font Easy to Read? There are three things that make a font easy to read: Size Space Style These are the touchstones of readability. Larger typefaces, ample spacing, and clear-cut styles foster smooth sailing through words. Deciphering content should be effortless, not exhausting. Fonts should not be a hurdle in your reader's journey but a seamless guide leading them through your content. It shouldn't beg for attention but instead provide a calm, unobstructed path. Stick to fonts with clear, consistent shapes, and patterns; this eases recognition and reduces cognitive load. An easy font to read is a trove of simplicity, consistency, and quick recognition. Font Weight Matters Heavier doesn't mean better. Bold fonts add emphasis but can overwhelm the eyes in excess. Regular or medium-weight fonts are usually the ticket to readable text. Balance is everything. Don't underestimate the influence of weight. Yes, lighter fonts offer an ethereal aesthetic, but they lose the readability battle against diverse backgrounds. On the other extreme, bold fonts can be too forceful, dominating your page and tiring the eyes. Adjusting font-weight correctly is a game of balance - it's the tightrope walk between visual appeal and optimum legibility. Serif or Sans? Serif or sans serif? Both have their strengths. Serifs guide the reading flow with 'feet'. Serif fonts, with their subtle 'feet', aid the flow...

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> Whether it's your first time or your fiftieth, preparing for a trade show gives you the best chance to achieve your exhibition goals

- Published: 2023-06-02
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/preparing-for-a-trade-show/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

If you're planning to showcase your business at a trade show, preparation is key to make the most out of this exciting opportunity. Whether it's your first time or your fiftieth, preparing for a trade show will give you the best chance to make valuable connections, gain exposure, and learn from others in your industry. We surveyed our print customers and the responses from the seasoned exhibitors among them make for some pretty useful pointers. In addition, we’ve exhibited at a number of conferences and events ourselves. The Print Show in particular has taught us many lessons, so we also have plenty of experience to share. We put together everything we’ve learned for ourselves and from our customers and come up with our guide on how to prepare for a successful trade show. Attend before you exhibit! Before you plan your own exhibit, experience a trade show as an attendee. This first hand exposure gives you an idea of the crowd, the environment, and the expectations of exhibitors. It's a valuable reconnaissance mission that will provide essential insights for your own exhibition strategy. Set goals Knowing what you want to achieve at the trade show is fundamental. Are you there to connect with existing customers, onboard new prospects, or introduce your brand to a fresh audience? Identifying your target audience is crucial in crafting your message, design, and overall approach. You'll also want to prepare tools and strategies for capturing data from interactions to ensure every conversation potentially leads to...

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> Need help naming your business? Our Essential Guide provides creative tips and insider advice to make the process easier and ensure success.

- Published: 2023-06-01
- Modified: 2023-06-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-essential-guide-to-naming-a-company/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Introducing your business to the world starts with a name. The process of naming a company can be a challenging puzzle – finding an original, unique title that is not only searchable on search engines like Google but also encapsulates the essence and character of your brand. The name should also have a timeless appeal, remaining relevant as your business evolves and diversifies. Sounds tricky, right? Don't worry! This guide will walk you through the process, giving you practical advice and creative tips. Types of company names Understanding different types of company names can be a great starting point. It will give you a framework for brainstorming and open up a wide array of possibilities. Here are some categories to consider: Descriptive company names These names give an immediate idea of what the company does. For instance, 'AutoTrader' or 'Burger King' fall under this category. The obvious advantage is their clarity, leaving no room for confusion. Abstract company names Abstract names do not have an apparent connection with the business. Take 'Zoopla' or 'Spotify' as examples. They may not explicitly describe what the company does, but they are distinctive and create a unique identity. Acronymic company names An acronymic name is a series of initials that represent the company's full title. 'BBC' (British Broadcasting Corporation) or 'HSBC' (Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation) are good examples. These names can be memorable and easy to recall. Geographical company names A company name can also reflect its location. Consider 'Yorkshire Tea' or...

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> We analysed the most famous brand logos of the world to reveal the most popular colours within the biggest industries.

- Published: 2023-05-31
- Modified: 2023-06-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/psychology-behind-the-logos-of-the-world/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Have you ever wondered why certain colours are synonymous with specific brand logos of the world? Why do we instantly recognise the yellow arches which have placed themselves in over 60% of countries worldwide? It’s all to do with psychology. To find out more, our research team at Solopress has analysed hundreds of the most famous brand logos of the world to reveal the most popular colours within the biggest industries and the psychology behind their use. Our new study reveals the power of colour psychology, which colours dominate best-performing brands across the food, drink, finance, tech and fashion industries, combined with a review of the most successful brands of all time. We have also spoken with neuromarketing expert, Katie Hart, who guides us through the power of colour, describing how this psychology affects our purchasing decisions. Colour psychology explained by a neuromarketing expert Colour psychology explores how different colours affect humans, from their moods to their actions. Its influence can be shown through the design of buildings to the development of different brand logos. Colour psychology, therefore, plays a significant role in the way we communicate and influence those around us. Katie Hart tells us: “Developments within neuroscience have discovered that colour affects us subconsciously, meaning we’re not truly aware of the power it has over us. “Different wavelengths of light convey powerful messages within our brain, which we have no control over. This is where the true power of colour comes in. ” We also asked Hart how...

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> Football memorabilia is a key component to it's success, with the first matchday FA Cup final programme dating back to 1882.

- Published: 2023-05-30
- Modified: 2023-06-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/fa-cup-final-programme-designs-through-the-years/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

The FA Cup final is the oldest football trophy in the world. Since 1871, the magic of the cup has invaded our nation's hearts and minds to become an integral fixture on our calendars. Football memorabilia, such as Brochures, are a key component to the tournament's long-standing success, excitement and fame, with the first matchday FA Cup final programme dating back to 1882. The FA Cup final 2023 takes place on the 3rd of June and will be the 151st time the notorious cup has been lifted. Our designer, Oscar, put on his creative hat as we took a whirlwind stop through the last 100 years, from the White Horse final to several underdog triumphs, to look at the design evolution of the FA Cup programme. 1923 FA Cup final programme Bolton Wanderers beat West Ham United in a match that’s famously remembered as the White Horse Final. This was the first match played at Wembley and the excitement was palpable when 125,000 seater stadium turned into 250,000 fans stormed the ground and then spilled onto the pitch. Billie, the police horse, fought the crowds back to regain control of the pitch, which delayed the match by an hour. Oscar's opinion: The background of the poster includes a nice hand-drawn image of the old Wembley. Hand-drawn images still remain a popular choice in Brochure designs to this day. This programme has a nice use of typography, especially for the time. The designers have done a great job splitting the info...

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> Fashion label Latham Street's branding is so popular that they’ve opted to create merchandise products printed with their distinctive logo.

- Published: 2023-05-22
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/latham-street-goes-to-print/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs, Print Inspiration

In the last blog from our “Grow with the Pros” series, we looked at how each of our three businesses developed their particular brand design and voice. In the case of fashion label Latham Street, their logo is so popular that they’ve opted to print branded merchandise. We’ve been working with Lorna Minter from Latham Street to create some printed products for resale in the Leigh-on-Sea store and online at latham-street. com. So far, Lorna has selected T-shirts, Tote Bags, Water Bottles and Re-usable Coffee Cups. In keeping with the brand’s ecological values, each item has been selected with sustainability as a priority. A brand in demand In our previous blog post about logos and colours, we delved into Latham Street's brand design approach. Latham Street has managed to craft a distinctive brand identity that is both retro and current. It also represents business values that appeal strongly to their core audience. As a result, there’s an appetite among Latham’s Street’s customers to associate with the brand through clothing and accessories that bear the Latham Street logo. Lorna told us: “Ever since we launched the brand, we’ve had customers coming up and asking for products with the “smiley” logo. Whenever we feature it prominently, whether that’s actual pieces or merch or accessories, they’re always hugely popular! ” To satisfy this appetite, Lorna has used print to create retail products that showcase the brand. It’s a great place to be for a fashion label. When customers have a desire to display...

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> Brochure design is a powerful marketing tool. We spoke to our expert, Tim Hann, who's tips will help you create the best Brochure possible. 

- Published: 2023-05-12
- Modified: 2024-05-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/your-ultimate-guide-to-brochure-design/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

Brochure design is a powerful marketing tool that can help you share important information, showcase your products or services, and leave a lasting impression on your customers. We spoke to our in-house expert, Tim Hann, who has used his 30+ years of experience to bring you some important tips so you can create the best Brochure possible.   Tim has come up with a fantastic line-up of tips, focusing on these key areas:  Size Format  Imagery  Copy  Finishing  Technical tips  Please note: The number of pages and the quantity can determine which device your brochure is produced on: lithographically or digitally. Size Choose the right size for your Brochure’s needs. If possible, stick to the standard ‘A’ sizes, with A4 and A5 being the most common. ‘A’ sizes maximise your printed size while remaining a cost-effective option. Bear in mind that bespoke sizes are available but can cost more. Tim’s tip “Sticking with standard ‘A’ sizes also helps with postage as ‘C’ size envelopes are designed specifically for ‘A’ size documentation. ” Formatting  What format should I have my Brochure in?   Choosing the right format is crucial for both the appearance and function of your brochure. It’s also crucial to decide on your format early and design accordingly. The most popular Brochure formats are Saddle-Stitch, Perfect Bound and Wiro-Bound. Tim’s tip "It’s essential to know which format your Brochures will be produced in before you start designing them. " Saddle-Stitch is ideal for Brochures with fewer pages  This format...

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> The creative workforce is on the move. We investigate which cities are the best in the world for digital nomads.

- Published: 2023-05-05
- Modified: 2023-05-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-cities-for-creative-digital-nomads/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

The creative workforce is on the move. Travelling the world and clocking in to work wherever there’s WiFi, digital nomads are sampling the lifestyles of the most fascinating cities on the globe. New research by Solopress has delved into the needs of digital nomads to reveal the best places on the planet to work remotely in a creative role. By looking at metrics such as average hourly rate freelancers, cost of living and even Wifi speeds we have discovered the best cities for creative digital nomads. Did you know, for example, that Istanbul offers the cheapest hotdesking prices at just £64? Or that Bangkok offers the cheapest month Airbnb stay at just £1,176? Whether it’s for a long time, or just a good time, this new information will help creative digital nomads to identify their next stopgap hotspot. So pack the MacBook in the backpack, and let’s hit the road... Cities where there’s most interest in adopting a digital nomad lifestyle Remote working has become an increasingly popular concept since the pandemic, and it doesn’t have to mean ‘working from home’. We decided to investigate the whereabouts of individuals expressing the greatest interest in becoming digital nomads by analysing search volumes across 30 cities in the UK and US for the terms digital nomad, digital nomad jobs, remote career and remote jobs. Here are the 15 most populated cities in the UK and US searching for a digital nomad lifestyle the most: New Yorkers seem the most keen to get...

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> To mark Star Wars day, we spoke to Gianni Venturini, co-author of “Star Wars Mini-Guide: Identify Your Kenner Card Back Reverses”

- Published: 2023-05-04
- Modified: 2023-05-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/star-wars-toys-mini-guide/
- Categories: Customer Stories

To mark Star Wars day, and our new Paperback Book printing service, we spoke to Gianni Venturini, co-author of “Star Wars Mini-Guide: Identify Your Kenner Card Back Reverses”. This indispensable reference for collectors of Star Wars figures was printed by Solopress last year as part of the run-up to our launch of Paperback Books as a new product to order from solopress. com. We spoke to Gianni about how he came by his passion and knowledge around Star Wars, and how the new book came about. A long time ago, in Shepherd's Bush... . Firstly, we asked Gianni about his first encounter with the Star Wars universe. His story is similar to that of many of his generation: My mum took me and my brother to see the film in Shephard’s Bush. I think it was in half-term, around February 1978, so I was only four old at the time. I think there are a lot of people who are really into it and are of a similar age, because it made such an impact. From that formative experience sprang his childhood love of the toy figures depicting characters from the films. Acquiring new figures became a fascination for the young Gianni: My Christmases thereafter were all about getting these Star Wars Action figures, that’s all I’d really ask for. The Course Reawakens Like many young people, his interest in the toys of his childhood began to wane as Gianni grew into his teens. However, Gianni’s passion for Star Wars...

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> Bionic reading is a method of formatting your text which makes your design easier and more accessible to read.

- Published: 2023-04-19
- Modified: 2023-04-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/bionic-reading-making-readable-designs/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Bionic reading is a method of formatting your text which makes your design easier and more accessible to read. Readability and design go hand in hand, and making your work as effortless to absorb as possible can be the difference between a sale or a fail. This post discussing a new bionic reading method caught our eye and Solopress wanted to explore how our customers could potentially unlock this skill for their own benefit. Why does this speed up reading? Bolding the initial letters of words improves readability and accessibility by drawing attention to key points or important terms. This technique is known as initial letter bolding and is often used in headings, subheadings or other elements designed to stand out. By highlighting the first letter of a word, it can help to create a visual hierarchy and guide the reader's eyes to the most important information. This can be especially useful when dealing with longer pieces of text or complex content, as it can help break up information and make it easier to navigate. It's also in design to create a more visually appealing and engaging layout. This adds a sense of depth and texture to the design and draws attention to important bits. What is bionic reading? Bionic reading methods are a set of techniques created to improve reading efficiency and understanding by allowing people to process and interact with text faster. In this sense, ‘bionic’ refers to the merging of technology or modern techniques with human abilities...

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> Setting up a charity can be daunting if it’s your first time. Here, we’ve broken down the key stages you need to follow.

- Published: 2023-04-17
- Modified: 2023-10-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/setting-up-a-charity/
- Categories: Charity & Community

Setting up a charity can be daunting if it’s your first time. Here, we’ve broken down the key stages you need to follow when setting up a charity. We’ve drafted in experts to assure you what you need to do to get started on your charitable journey. Throughout, Paul Sayer and Carla Cressy will be here to give you the facts and their personal experience. Paul Sayer, the founder of Prost8, has over 12 years of experience in setting up charities. If there’s anything he doesn’t know about this subject, it’s probably not worth knowing! Carla Cressy, the founder of The Endometriosis Foundation, is relatively new to this sphere, having her official charity launch in March 2023. She’s been through this journey recently as a novice and can provide a fresh take on the process. Here are the key stages of setting up a charity: How to set up a charity Dealing with the Charity Commission Charitable purposes Naming a charity Writing a governing document Applying for tax relief How to set up a charity There are four different ways you can set up a charity: Charitable trust. Charitable company. Charitable incorporated organisation. Unincorporated association. Charitable trust A charitable trust is managed by trustees who may be personally liable for any debt the trust may build. Make sure you get trustees who you trust! Charitable company A charitable company is a non-profit organisation that’s registered as a limited company. They must have charitable objectives and a separate legal identity from...

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> When you start to exhibit at trade shows, you may find yourself with a small pitch or a shell scheme. Here's how to make them work for you.

- Published: 2023-04-14
- Modified: 2023-10-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/shell-schemes-and-small-spaces/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

First time exhibitors, sole traders and small businesses may find they need to make the most of a small budget and a small footprint. While larger, more mature brands often build huge, bespoke stands to wow the crowds, smaller exhibitors can still achieve a big impact at the trade show with limited resources and real estate. When you sign up for a small pitch or a shell scheme stand, it can be a challenge to make it stand out. You’ll be surrounded by dozens of stands with an identical footprint, all competing for footfall and attention. Dave Roberts of Ancoats Guitars exhibited multiple times during his first year of trading. His steep learning curve puts him in a fantastic position to share his experience and help others to maximise their presence. What’s on offer? When you enquire about exhibiting at a trade show, you’ll have the opportunity to select your pitch. Depending on the event and venue, you may be able to choose the size and position of your pitch. When Ancoats Guitars exhibited at The Guitar Show in Birmingham, space was at a premium, and prime pitches hard to secure. As a result, Dave found himself a little bit off-the beaten track: I was a bit tucked away in the corner, so unless anyone made a specific effort to venture my way, they wouldn’t get the full-frontal impact of my display. Wherever possible, then, make sure you consider the position of the stand you're booking, and get in early...

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> Industry expert Andy Hickinbotham sets out 5 areas your should focus on when creating a large-scale exhibition presence.

- Published: 2023-04-14
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/5-tips-for-bespoke-trade-show-stands/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

As your business grows, your approach to exhibiting at trade shows needs to grow with it. If you find yourself leaving the world of trestle tables and shell schemes behind, then a bigger stand will require you to think bigger too. We spoke to industry expert and exhibition stand designer Andy Hickinbotham about the new set of considerations you’ll need to tackle when creating a large-scale exhibition presence. Here are Andy’s five tips for turning your next exhibition stand into a true showstopper, along with images of some of his favourite displays. 1. Choose one thing We’re used to being told to pick an overall theme for our exhibition stands. A concept to inform our visual, physical and written content. Andy urges clients to go one step further: to select one single idea and let that inform their entire stand design. Exhibitors are often rightly proud of the many strands that make up their business. You might boast a diverse product range or multiple USPs. The temptation is to express every last thing they’ve got going for you. In fact, leaving something out can be painful, as if you’re selling yourself short. Think like a visitor, not an exhibitor At this point, it’s important to stop thinking like the exhibitor, and start thinking like a visitor. A trade show is an assault on the senses, bombarding visitors with more sensory information than they can absorb. So the brain becomes a censor, taking in only what it perceives as valuable. Memory...

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> A stunning Book cover design that’s impossible to ignore is the best marketing tool any author can have to sell their story.

- Published: 2023-04-12
- Modified: 2023-04-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-create-a-stunning-book-cover-design/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Is your Book begging to be picked up off the shelves? Can someone walk passed it without feeling the urge to read it cover to cover? The harsh reality is, we all judge a Book by its cover. A stunning Book cover design that’s impossible to ignore is the best marketing tool any author can have to sell their story. If it doesn’t pique someone’s interest instantly then it will remain sitting collecting dust among the rest of the pile. Here are some essential tips you need to consider when designing your Book cover to make it a greater success. When creating your Book cover design, there are several aspects you need to keep at the forefront of the process: Understanding your target audience What makes an eye-catching design How to use typography Not forgetting about the back and spine Editing with a flaming sword We all dream of having books hit the Hollywood headlines but being an overnight success isn’t realistic. However, following these important tricks can help you produce a powerful design and help you jump the queue to have your name in lights, with a sore hand from signing autographs in no time. Understand your target audience The first key point to keep in mind when designing your book cover is to understand your target audience. Knowing who your readers are and what they’re looking for will help you choose the right colour scheme, typography, and imagery for your cover. For example, if your book is a...

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> Care home marketing has become increasingly important in today's ageing society. This blog explores key strategies for care homes to use.

- Published: 2023-03-24
- Modified: 2023-03-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/care-home-marketing-tips/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Care home marketing has become increasingly important in today's ageing society. As the population grows older, the demand for high-quality care continues to rise. This makes it essential for care homes to distinguish themselves from the competition. Care home marketing is the cornerstone of building trust and attracting new residents. We spoke to Shane McGrath, an expert in care home marketing from Glenholme, to discuss the top strategies for care homes to use to develop their presence and deliver a successful campaign. Care home marketing: where to start? There are two important areas to start with: Refining your message Knowing your audience Refining your message It’s often a tough decision for families when they reach the conclusion that a loved one needs the extra support and protection of a care home. At this sensitive time, they need to feel reassurance from a provider that their loved one will receive the level of full-time care they deserve. Prove that your care home can provide personalised, high-quality care and you will stand out from the crowd. Shane added: “Showing how you provide compassionate and personalised care really helps build trust for families when making this big decision. “Many older people and their families are looking for a care home that offers compassionate, personalised care. “Highlighting the quality of care you provide, and the individualised attention your staff gives to each resident can help you stand out from your competitors. ” Knowing your audience The first step in any successful care home marketing...

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> Our pick of the most valuable football stickers of all time, including Lionel Messi's 2014 World Cup sticker that has sold for £115,000.

- Published: 2023-03-21
- Modified: 2023-03-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/messi-maradona-and-the-worlds-most-expensive-football-stickers/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Stickers & Labels

The world's most expensive football cards are now fetching well into six figures, as collectors scramble for rare examples. the recent sale of a one-of-a-kind Lionel Messi sticker shows that demand is strong 62 years since the birth of Panini. How stickers kicked off In 1960, a pair of football-fanatic brothers named Giuseppi and Benito Panini had the idea of creating collector’s albums to celebrate their beloved sport. The following year they founded their eponymous company and sold 15 million packets within their first 12 months. By 1970, the pair had signed an agreement with FIFA, and the first Panini World Cup album was produced in time for the tournament in Mexico. Since then, the sticker albums have been an unfailing hit with kids and collectors alike. So much so that certain rare stickers have become very valuable indeed. And we’re not just talking about a ‘shiny’ being worth two obscure squad members... One-of-a-kind Messi sticker sells for £115,000 This week, a football fan hit the jackpot by selling a unique sticker of Argentina's Lionel Messi for a staggering £115,000. While the striker hit the headlines in December for leading his national side to victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the sticker in question was actually part of Panini’s 2014 World Cup collection. In a calculated bid to create rarity and stoke a frenzy, Panini had produced one-off versions of each player’s sticker. It was the first time the company had produced one-of-a-kind variations, applying different coloured borders...

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> Custom T-Shirts create a strong sense of community among your employees and customers through a cost-effective, durable product.

- Published: 2023-03-20
- Modified: 2023-03-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-design-custom-t-shirts/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Custom T-Shirts create a strong sense of community among your employees and customers. With a memorable design, you can send a strong message, express a consistent brand identity, or make a fashion statement with cost-effective and easy-to-order T-shirts. What are the benefits of custom T-Shirts? Some key benefits of branded T-Shirts are that they’re: Cost-effective Recognisable Long-lasting Versatile Cost-effective They’re cost-effective because you can print a huge volume of T-Shirts without breaking the bank. Having bulk storage means that you can be versatile in how you use them. Leftovers can easily be used as a prize in a competition, given away for free to spread awareness of your brand, or sold to bring in extra revenue. Recognisable T-Shirts are worn by everyone and ignored by no one. If you can make your design eye-catching and memorable, your brand will become more recognisable. The community they build reinforces the identity of your brand. Whether they’re worn by colleagues at an event or by customers on the street, a well-designed T-Shirt will keep your brand in the limelight. Long-lasting Made from durable material, T-Shirts are designed to survive the daily challenges they’re put through. Robust and hardy enough to keep up with the demands of those wearing them, T-Shirts offer a long-term solution to spreading your message consistently over time. Versatile Custom T-Shirts offer a powerful tool for marketing your business that can be used in several ways. They’re perfect for: Customers - who are proud to don your colours. Employees -...

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> In this blog, we look at how Cookies and Cones, Create 98 and Latham Street came to establish their visual identities.

- Published: 2023-03-17
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/choosing-logos-and-brand-colours/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Entrepreneurs

In our previous instalment, we looked at how three businesses came up with names and taglines for their brands. This time, we’ll be looking at how Cookies and Cones, Create 98 and Latham Street came to establish their visual identities. Creating the look and feel of your brand is a fun process, but it’s also an important stage that could set the tone for your brand in the long term. We spoke with Matt Davis, Christine Wyatt and Lorna Minter to discover how they arrived at logos and brand colours for their businesses. When the pros call in the pros With a name and a tagline in place, brands need a visual identity to present to the world. That brings us to the issue of who actually does all this ideation and design work. You can bet that most entrepreneurs spent their idle moments as youngsters sketching logos for their future empires. However, most fully-fledged business leaders know when it's time to hand over to the experts. All three of our businesses sought some design help, and all three decided to stay local in their search for expertise. Lorna at Latham Street reached out to friends Joe and Charlotte to help her with graphic design and web dev. Joe and Charlotte are a design duo who split their work lives between wedding photography, signwriting, murals and design. Cookies and Cones used a local digital artist in Leigh, Roza Hamta of Dozy Rose. Create 98 used marketing agency Shout Design that...

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> This blog looks at the origins of the brand names and taglines used by three businesses to help start-ups with the process.

- Published: 2023-03-17
- Modified: 2023-11-14
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/choosing-brand-names-and-taglines/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs

An exciting part of launching any business is establishing the tone of voice and personality of the brand. Having gone a way down the track, our experienced entrepreneurs have had time to refine that personality, put it to use in different ways and to test the limits of its identity. We caught up with Lorna Minter, Matt Davis and Christine Wyatt to relive those journeys and talk through the reasons behind their decisions when it came to their brand name and tagline. Make a name for yourself Your name is often your first branding decision, and the first impression you make on your audience. It’s a challenge to sum up your product, service and ethos in a simple, snappy handle. Our three businesses have taken different routes to arrive at their brand names, from precise, to personal, to practical. Cookies & Cones Our most “on the nose” example is certainly Cookies & Cones. The name leaves you in no doubt about what’s in store. It’s a great example of low-context language which we cover in our blog about slogans. However, as time has gone on, Matt has found the name has become too narrow an expression of their offering: To be brutally honest, our name is probably not the best idea we ever had. It can be quite restricting, especially when we’re trying to sell people coffee and in the winter when people don’t necessarily want to have ice cream. However, as time passes and awareness grows, brands can become...

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> Prost8 raise funds for first focal suite at this year’s ICON event where they were the proud chosen charity partner.

- Published: 2023-03-10
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/prost8-raise-funds-for-first-focal-suite/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Print Inspiration

Prostate cancer affects one in eight men worldwide. Although a well-researched and acknowledged disease, common treatments can be invasive and can leave patients with life-altering consequences. This means UK charity Prost8 not only has the opportunity to help save lives, but they can also work towards increasing the quality of men’s lives post-treatment. This year’s Icon Awards saw them obliterate their fundraising target, as they raised enough money to open their first focal treatment suite. Who are Prost8? Prost8 is an influential charity making waves in the sector with its campaign to promote modern procedures for prostate cancer. They were founded by Paul Sayer, a prostate cancer survivor, and their mission is to make the over-treatment of this terrible disease a thing of the past. Acting on personal experience, Paul believes saving lifestyles is as important as saving lives. Prost8 believes men deserve better lifestyle outcomes following treatment for prostate cancer. Their message is clear: every year thousands of men with low to medium-grade prostate cancer are being unnecessarily over-treated for their disease, which can cause life-altering side effects. Team Prost8 The statistics around prostate cancer are alarming: One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer One person will die from prostate cancer every 45 minutes 12,000 men will be over-treated for their prostate cancer every year 500,000 new diagnoses of prostate cancer in the next ten years Thankfully, treatment for the disease is constantly advancing. However, one of the problems that Paul and many other sufferers have...

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> Solopress attended the official launch of The Endometriosis Foundation at the House of Lords on Tuesday the 7th of March 2023.

- Published: 2023-03-09
- Modified: 2023-04-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/the-endometriosis-foundations-house-of-lords-launch-party/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Print Inspiration

Endometriosis is as common as asthma and diabetes. Although it’s a condition that’s prevalent in women, awareness remains muted compared to the problems mentioned above and a diagnosis can take years. This makes the work of The Endometriosis Foundation not only essential but life-saving. Lord it over After a personal battle with the condition, Carla Cressy started The Endometriosis Foundation in 2018. Her official diagnosis came over 10 years after the first obvious symptoms of endometriosis. A major factor that delays the diagnosis of this condition is that female health remains a largely taboo subject. Asthma and diabetes don’t rely on an average eight-year wait for a diagnosis, so if endometriosis is just as common, this staggering waiting time is clearly unacceptable. The condition affects approximately 10% of the female population worldwide, yet it’s severely underfunded, under-researched and poorly treated. After eight serious operations and undergoing surgically induced menopause at the age of just 29, Carla's life has been seriously impacted by the condition. Her journey led to the creation of The Endometriosis Foundation which aims to spread awareness so that this widespread condition can receive widespread treatment. Carla officially launched her charity at the House of Lords on Tuesday the 7th of March 2023. Surrounded by peers As the snow fell outside, the launch couldn’t have been met by a warmer room filled with excitement and positivity. After passing through policed checkpoints, metal detectors and armed security, the Attlee Room beckoned our presence. The party was staged in the...

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> Recent innovative changes to the way we provide customer service have attracted recognition from our industry and customers alike.

- Published: 2023-03-07
- Modified: 2023-03-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/customer-service-innovation-brings-print-week-award-success/
- Categories: Print Industry News, Solopress News

Over the past year, we’ve focused on customer service with some innovative changes that have attracted recognition from our industry as well as our customers. Positive changes to our Customer Service Team structure and headcount have seen some impressive improvements across all the metrics we use to measure our performance. Recognition from industry experts and customers alike But it’s not just Solopress that’s noted this improvement. At the 2023 Print Week Awards, we were highly commended in the category of Customer Service Team of the Year in a Large Enterprise. The judging panel featured a number of print procurement managers for large organisations. These are people that truly appreciate the importance of service in print, so it was indeed an honour to be recognised at the awards. In addition, our customers have continued to praise us via Trustpilot. com. We now have over 27,500 five-star reviews, with an “excellent” average rating of 4. 7 out of 5. That’s up from 4. 6 last year. Record of achievements So how have we managed to improve on an already strong customer service record? Firstly, let’s summarise our achievements: Over 27,500 5-star Trustpilot reviews. An “excellent” 4. 7 stars from a total of over 32,000 reviews. 181% rise in calls handled vs. the previous 12 months. 135% rise in calls resolved vs. the previous 12 months. Complaints down 37. 5% vs. pre-covid levels. Reprints down 41. 2% year on year. Response times down 23% year on year. 10 full-time Team members added. New...

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- Published: 2023-02-27
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/this-way-that-way-off-we-go-a-paperback-story/
- Categories: Print Inspiration, Solopress News

We’ve launched Paperback Books for the first time on solopress. com, and the debut publication that went through the press was written by one of our own. Solopress designer Richard Kemp has written a book for children, titled “This Way, That Way, Off We Go! ” Richard had the idea for his book 20 years ago. During that time, it’s evolved from a collection of loose, hand-drawn pages to a fully fledged paperback book with its own barcode and ISBN number! We spoke to Richard about the process he, and long time colleague and illustrator Matt Bruty, went through to arrive at the finished article. A whole new story... Richard’s aim for the book was to create a story that was easy to follow for preschool and key stage one children. He was keen to weave elements of colours and counting into a narrative thread that all kids could relate to. Piece by piece, he came up with the tale of a child and their cuddly toy “Thingy-Bob”, faced with the task of tidying their toys. However, we all know how easy it is to be distracted while tidying, and it doesn’t take long for the child’s vivid imagination to take over. Almost immediately, they embark on a magical journey, encountering monkeys, wizards, aliens and more! An early call Writing for children raises a lot of stylistic questions for authors. Many of them seem obvious, but some are quite unexpected. A fundamental decision at the outset might be to decide...

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> This tutorial is perfect for all abilities, whether you're a beginner looking to learn Photoshop or a seasoned pro needing a refresher!

- Published: 2023-02-20
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/photoshop-in-4-minutes-adobe-tutorial-for-beginners/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

In this tutorial, designer Matt Bruty shows you how to use Photoshop in just 4 minutes. This quick and concise video will introduce you to the essential tools and features you need to get started with editing your photos and creating digital designs. This tutorial is perfect for all abilities, whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of Photoshop or a seasoned pro looking for a quick refresher! https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=orYrDSGH-lE Transcription If you are new to Photoshop, I'm going to give you a four-minute overview of the tools you'll need to learn. The image I created for this video's thumbnail uses the main tools I'd like to demonstrate to you. So I'm going to recreate this and take you through the steps. Start the clock. I start by opening one of the images I'd like to work with. If you were creating artwork from scratch, just go to the new one and set up a blank canvas. So if we explore the workspace here, you've got your tools here. If you hover your cursor over a tool, you get a handy animation describing exactly what it does and if you click on hold on one of the tools with an arrow, you are presented with more tools of the same ilk. And then you have your tools option bar that will change according to what tool you are using. And off to your right are the windows which we'll touch on later. To...

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> Today, we mourn Lilt. The Coca Cola Company has called time on this totally tropical brand. We explore the pros and cons of a brand makeover.

- Published: 2023-02-14
- Modified: 2023-02-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/lilt-the-pros-and-cons-of-rebranding-and-a-lesson-from-a-singing-monkey/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Today, we mourn Lilt. The Coca-Cola Company has called time on the trade name for this fruity, refreshing drink. The "totally tropical taste" will live on, rebranded as "Fanta Pineapple and Grapefruit" but the name "Lilt", along with its distinctive packaging, will cease to be. The Lilt rebranding is aimed at boosting sales by aligning it with the popular Fanta range. The rebranding effort involves a complete overhaul of the product's packaging and marketing. As a business evolves and adapts to changing market conditions, rebranding may be necessary to refresh its image and better align the brand with its objectives. However, it can be a risky and expensive process. We take a look at a lesson from the past, and explore the pros and cons of a brand makeover for not-so-global businesses. Beware beloved brands Coca-Cola’s carbonated fruit drink offering is dominated by Fanta, which outsells Lilt by around 18 to 1. In light of these numbers, it’s easy to see why Coca-Cola would want to bring Lilt under the Fanta banner. However, it can be a mistake to underestimate the public’s affection for your secondary brands. A lesson from history involving a cereal-munching monkey demonstrates this point very well... Don’t mess with the monkey In 1997, Kellogg’s, manufacturers of Rice Krispies, attempted to bring their chocolate version of the rice-based cereal under the same banner. At great expense, they rebranded Coco Pops as Choco Krispies in an effort to bring the sub-brand into line. The move received a less-than-welcome...

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> Door drop campaigns are a great way to target the just right people for your business, as Farnham Chiropractic Wellness found out.

- Published: 2023-01-27
- Modified: 2023-07-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/farnham-chiropractic-wellness-a-door-drop-campaign-pt-2/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Customer Stories, Print Inspiration

In part 1 of our series on this door drop campaign, we introduced Farnham Chiropractic Wellness and their Mid-life MOT service. We learned how chiropractor and business owner Grant Pretorius had identified that a door drop campaign could help him to reach a new audience. We also took a detailed look at how we arrived at a Flyer design that was specifically optimised for distribution via direct mail. With print ready artwork ready to upload, it was time to look at the next steps involved in setting up a successful direct mail, or DM, campaign. Using Solopress Door-to-Door Leaflet Distribution service, this meant getting familiar with Campaign Builder. This tool is accessible during the ordering process and it lets you pick out your audience according to geographical area, age, household type and income bracket. Campaign Builder When targeting the right addresses for his mail drop, Grant needed to zero in on the right audience using factors including geographical area; age household type and income. Efficiency is key to keeping costs down, and Leaflets are wasted if they’re dropped at an address where the residents are too far away, the wrong age to take advantage of the Mid-life MOT, or don’t have the resources to pay for the service. Geographical As the name suggests, Farnham Chiropractic Wellness is based in the Surrey town of Farnham. This thriving Georgian Market town has a population of 28k and serves as a social and commercial hub for a number of surrounding villages. Grant was...

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> Election printing is a powerful campaign tool. We look at how to produce persuasive print for the 2023 UK local elections on May 4th.

- Published: 2023-01-26
- Modified: 2023-01-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/uk-heads-to-the-polls-election-printing-for-may-the-4th/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Election printing is a powerful campaign tool, and the 2023 UK local elections on May 4th will produce plenty of persuasive print. Despite the increasing use of digital channels, printed material such as Brochures, Flyers, Badges and Posters remain staples of political campaigns. Here are a few reasons why print should be a part of your campaign strategy for the 2023 UK local elections. Arriving at your design Leaflets are central to most political campaigns, so getting to an effective design is essential. During the last general election, we surveyed our subscribers to find out what made for the perfect political leaflet. The eye-opening results are valuable reading for anyone putting a Leaflet together for 2023. Election print particulars Producing election material comes with its own set of specific considerations. For instance, it’s a legal requirement to feature what’s called an “imprint” on your printed material. This is information relating to who is responsible for producing the material itself. The imprint must include names and addresses for: The promoter The person on behalf of whom the material is printed The print company More information on candidate imprints is available in a factsheet from the Electoral Commission. Because it’s mandatory to feature the details of the printer, readers sometimes assume there is some partiality on behalf of the print company, or that they share the views expressed in the material. However, this is NOT the case, and Solopress maintains a policy of impartiality which we outline in this statement. Candidate Mail...

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> From their invention in the late 19th century to the present day, we pin down the secret history of the Button Badge.

- Published: 2023-01-24
- Modified: 2023-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/look-sharp-a-history-of-button-badges/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Button Badges, also known as Pin Badges, have a long and rich history in UK culture. To mark the introduction of Button Badges to Solopress' huge range of promotional print, we pin down the history of Badges, from Victorian times to the Victoria Line. The birth of the Badge The Button Badge as we know it today first came about in the late nineteenth century. Cast or stamped metal and enamel brooches had existed previously, but they took significant skill, time and expense to produce. Button badges on the other hand got their name because they were made in a similar way, and by the same manufacturers, as cloth covered buttons. In 1894 and 1896, a US company called Whitehead & Hoag Co. filed patents for a ‘Badge Pin or button’ that consisted of a design printed on paper, pressed on to a metal backing and protected by a clear cellulose film coating. A metal ring held the assembly in place and a pin on the rear secured the Badge to the wearer's clothing. This design persists to this day with slight variations in materials and design. It’s this type of Badge that Solopress offers in Round, Square and Rectangle options. A Victorian upbringing In the same year that the second patent was filed, Queen Victoria marked 60 years on the throne, and diamond jubilee Badges became popular throughout the British Empire. There followed a spate of popular Badges in Britain, both in support of the Empire during the Boer...

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> A targeted door drop campaign can be a powerful lead generation tool. We followed Farnham Chiropractic Wellness to see how they got on.

- Published: 2023-01-20
- Modified: 2024-06-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/farnham-chiropractic-wellness-a-door-drop-campaign-pt-1/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Customer Stories, Print Inspiration, Tutorials

A targeted door drop campaign can be a powerful lead generation tool for businesses of all sizes. To make direct marketing simple for our customers, Solopress launched the Door-To-Door Leaflet Distribution service. The service allows businesses to upload artwork at Solopress. com and have it printed, packed and delivered, all in one easy transaction. We were interested to learn about our customers’’ experience with the new service, so we followed early-adopter Farnham Chiropractic Wellness to see how they got on. In this first blog in the series, we get to know the business and take you through how we arrived at a leaflet design that’s specially optimised for a door drop campaign. A chiropractor’s back–ground Having trained as a chiropractor in South Africa, Grant Pretorius has been practising in the UK since 2008 and Farnham Chiropractic has been incorporated as a business for ten years. The practice specialises chiropractic treatment, massage, physical training and nutritional advice. Having started out with a keen focus on the musculoskeletal system, Grant has developed a more holistic approach that looks at all aspects of wellness. He is especially concerned with how we can look after our health in a way that prevents recourse to medication or surgery. Practice makes perfect During his time as a practising chiropractor, Grant has become acutely aware of the importance of catching issues early before they develop into bigger problems. An example Grant cites is organ failure. Sometimes the first time a patient becomes aware of a problem is...

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> Solopress has blasted into the world of B1 printing with a £5m investment and 10,000 sq ft expansion, but what does all this mean for you?

- Published: 2023-01-13
- Modified: 2023-01-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/b1-printing-what-it-means-for-you/
- Categories: Print Industry News, Solopress News

Solopress has blasted into the world of B1 printing! Our recent £5m investment and 10,000 sq ft expansion means we can now print onto massive, 1 metre long B1 sheets. The result? Greater speed, less waste, impeccable print quality and increased overall production capacity. But what does all this mean for you, the customer? We’re here to let you know how bigger sheets flying off our new press will benefit all of our customers, regardless of the size of their print. What is B1 printing? Just like A4, B1 is a standard paper size, except it’s much bigger! B1 sheets arrive from our supplier measuring 1020x720mm, so each sheet is over a metre long. You can find out more about international standards for paper sizes in our Support Guide on document sizes. Solopress has previously been known for B2 printing. At 520x720mm, B2 sheets are roughly half the length of B1. We achieve B2 printing on three of our state-of-the-art HP Indigo digital inkjet presses as well as using our three Heidelberg litho machines. However, with the purchase of a Heidelberg Speedmaster XL106 10P press in October last year, we’ve now made the giant leap into B1 printing. Capacity crowd The primary motivation behind the move was the need to increase production capacity in order to meet rising demand. Alongside our traditional offering, we launched Solopro in 2019 in order to better cater for trade customers and print resellers. The success of this project led to a rise in larger...

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> Plum & Belle is an online boutique on a mission to make it easier to live more sustainably, yet no less stylishly.

- Published: 2023-01-11
- Modified: 2023-01-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/plum-belle/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Postcards

Starting a business during lockdown would have been considered a gamble by many. While many saw their daily routines furloughed, for some it saw new opportunities arise. With the climate filled with an air of uncertainty, some used this free time as a period to dream, plan and organise their life after the lockdown. It was during this period that the seeds of Plum & Belle were planted, as the stylish yet sustainable online lifestyle boutique flourished into life. Plum & Belle Plum & Belle is an online boutique on a mission to make it easier to live more sustainably, yet no less stylishly. Created in May 2020 by two friends, their stunning online store sells a variety of fashion, jewellery, skincare and homewares. Now the sole director, Lucy Williams is sticking to her guns to spread the word about her passion project to as many people as possible. With 25 years of experience in fashion and an enthusiasm for sustainability, Lucy became disheartened by a lot of brands shouting about their green credentials with empty words, producing more of a box-ticking exercise than anything of substance. While she remains eager not to take a judgemental stance on eco-issues, Lucy was determined to make genuine sustainability the main focus of her brand. She saw an opportunity to bring a lighter touch to the conversation and navigate away from some of the severe messaging many brands use when waving the sustainability flag. Lucy said: “Being sustainable is often labelled as a...

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> We love to make life easier for you, so we created a completely free marketing Calendar, available in three different formats.

- Published: 2022-12-22
- Modified: 2023-02-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/free-2023-uk-marketing-calendar/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

A new year is rapidly approaching... If you don't want 2023 to get away from you, you'll need something to help plan for key dates and events throughout the year. We love to make life easier for you, so we created a completely free marketing Calendar, available in three different formats to cater to your specific needs. We’ve covered all bases. Choose from a printed physical version, downloadable artwork or an attachment to your email Calendar. With some carefully selected dates relevant to the UK, we've left the remainder of the Calendar empty for you to fill at your discretion. Why a Wall Chart? Wall Charts are the ultimate way to keep on the ball with important upcoming dates, events or campaigns that are specific to your business. This print not only increases focus on the planning and execution of upcoming projects but also offers a wonderfully useful item to stay organised throughout the year. Simply hang them on a wall and they’ll remain unmissable all year round, making key dates impossible to forget. What we’ve included on our marketing Calendar: British bank holidays 2023 Religious holidays National and international days UK patron saint days National and international sporting events Some of these dates may not be entirely relevant to your business, however, they may be significant to your customers. Therefore, it’s a good idea to keep them in mind when planning your marketing activity as it may affect the impact of your work. What features should you include on...

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> This definitive 2023 exhibition guide is a great place to discover dedicated trade shows and exhibitions for your sector.

- Published: 2022-12-20
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/the-ultimate-2023-exhibition-guide/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

A New Year is here. Where should you start promoting your business in 2023? Trade shows and Exhibitions provide dedicated spaces where specific, incentivised audiences can get to know your brand. This definitive 2023 exhibition guide is a great place to discover the shows that present the best opportunities for you to exhibit at or attend. To find your sector, click on the highlighted categories and you’ll see plenty of exciting events where you can broadcast your business. If you need any printed items or promotional products to take along, we’ll be waiting in the wings to help you every step of the way. Exhibition Show Categories Automotive Business & Retail Careers & Recruitment Computing & Technology Education Entertainment Farming & Agriculture Fashion, Clothing & Textiles Food, Drink & Hospitality Health, Medical & Care Holidays & Tourism Homes, Property & Construction Print, Publishing & Packaging Safety & Security Sport & Exercise Weddings Automotive Autosport International Show Date: January 12-15 Venue: NEC Birmingham Website: https://www. autosportinternational. com/ Description: Europe’s largest motorsport event is the perfect place to kick off the motorsport season and calendar year. Camper Mart 2023 Date: February 5 Venue: Telford International Website: https://www. campermart. co. uk/ Description: The place to come for all things VW Camper related. Pick up accessories and find services for your pride and joy, or essentials for that long-awaited project in the garage! Seek advice and help from people in the know and meet up with friends to discuss in person, your bus and...

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> Solopress has followed Ancoats Guitars through its first year in business. We spoke to Dave Roberts at the London International Guitar Show.

- Published: 2022-12-13
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-an-interview-with-dave-roberts/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs

Solopress has spent the year following Ancoats Guitars through its first twelve months in business. It was great to get the chance to catch up with founder Dave Roberts in person at the London International Guitar Show. We chatted with Dave about his experiences with starting a business in his free time, establishing the Ancoats Guitars brand and using print to market his products. https://youtu. be/2TfooZhrHko If you haven't done already, you can read more about Dave's journey throughout the year elsewhere in this blog. Dave's hard work, talent and commitment have been commendable, although we'd like to believe that Solopress played a small part too! The Ancoats Guitars stand at the London International Guitar Show, with its Roller Banners, Merch and Printed Tablecloth, was certainly among the most stylish and professional, helping to establish Ancoats Guitars among the major players in the custom guitar building community. The brand is clearly in great shape heading into its second year, and we wish Dave Roberts all the best for the future!

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> We spoke to Suzie Edwards, of Suzie Construction, to see how she is a pioneer for the rise of women in construction.

- Published: 2022-12-12
- Modified: 2023-01-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/suzie-construction/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Training and recruitment of women in construction is on the rise, but sadly, that hasn’t always been the case. Gender equality in this sector has traditionally lagged behind other industries. Thankfully, outdated preconceptions about the types of people we expect to see working in the trades are being challenged thanks to the incredible work of companies like Suzie Construction. We spoke to Suzie Edwards, the business’s founder and director, to find out how she’s managing to flourish in this male-dominated industry and how print has helped. Women in construction Currently, only 10% of workers in construction are women. However, only 2. 5% are on the tools, with almost 90% of the working in construction doing office jobs. Despite that, businesses like Suzie Construction are making a huge difference. Not only are they overturning these statistics but they’re dispelling stereotypes in the process too. Being a female-owned company, Suzie Construction is a leading light in this fight. Suzie proudly asserted: “I gave my company this name to make it clear that it’s a female-run business, that’s a flagbearer for women in construction! ” Founded in 2020, she employs a mix of women and men in her London-based business that takes on a broad range of construction work. This multi-faceted team can complete renovations, extensions, installations, remedial work, painting, decorating, and much more. Working on both commercial and residential sites, Suzie Construction is proving that women belong in construction. Making an equal industry Construction has long been an industry dominated by men....

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> Here's a selection of notable Umbrellas that stepped out of the shadows to shine in the spotlight and earned their claim to fame.

- Published: 2022-12-06
- Modified: 2023-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/umbrellas-that-became-famous/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Branded Umbrellas are an indispensable item. They’ll allow you to arrive at your destination with your hairstyle intact, rather than resembling a drowned rat. But the humble brolly has a long history and a cultural significance that belies its simple function. Initially deployed as Parasols to protect from the sun, Umbrellas have been used for over 4,000 years; originating in ancient civilisations including Egypt, Greece and China. Historically seen as a token of wealth, they’ve evolved into a waterproof item to shield us from the damp and dreary conditions that the British weather treats us to. Through the years, some brollies have stepped out of the shadows to shine in the spotlight, and many have stood firmly in our memories. We gathered a selection of notable branded Umbrellas that have earned their claim to fame. Mary Poppins A timeless classic! The iconic silhouette of the mystical nanny and her flying Umbrella has to be one of the most enduring images in the history of family movies. Originally released in 1934 as a book, this charming tale has been retold numerous times. Most famously as the film that first graced our screens in 1964 starring Julie Andrews as the implacable British nanny. Adapted into an extremely successful West-end musical in 2004, this versatile tale also spawned a 2018 sequel, ‘Mary Poppins Returns’, as well as ‘Finding Mr Banks,’ the star-studded story of the making of the 1964 film. Whether you know the words off by heart or can’t quite connect why...

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> A 4-day work week, Brexit and the cost-of-living crisis. These are some of the biggest issues facing Businesses in the UK.

- Published: 2022-11-28
- Modified: 2022-11-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/businesses-united-on-brexit-but-divided-on-the-4-day-work-week/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

A 4-day work week, Brexit and the cost-of-living crisis. These are some of the biggest issues facing Businesses in the UK, according to a recent survey we conducted. Only 4. 5% of organisations believe Brexit has been good for their business. Equally, over half would consider implementing a 4-day work week following the successful completion of the current trial. These are just some of the results we conducted that investigated the most pressing issues for businesses currently. We have a diverse customer base made up by a range of sectors and business sizes. This gives us an insight into overall trends and the ability to drill down into issues affecting small businesses or other heavily impacted sectors. Almost 2,400 organisations responded to our survey to give us the inside track on their biggest concerns. Some of the results might surprise you. Brexit is bad for business Across all business sectors and sizes, Brexit is viewed negatively. Medium-sized businesses view Brexit the most adversely as just 1. 48% of companies believe it has been good for their business. Small businesses view Brexit slightly less negatively, although this percentage only sits at 5. 63%. A disrupted supply chain was cited by almost 50% of businesses as the main reason for Brexit’s negative impact. Decreased confidence and goodwill towards UK businesses due to Brexit was specified by a third of survey responders. Small businesses also commented that they’re being most acutely affected by export tariffs. A huge 80% of all businesses said there...

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> Looking to take the leap with a new start-up? Take tips from Dave Roberts of Ancoats Guitars' who's devoting more time to his business.

- Published: 2022-11-25
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-making-the-leap/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs

It can be a sensible plan to start your new enterprise as a side hustle. However, the time may well arise when you have to make that leap and make a significant commitment to your start-up. The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to jump right into the deep end. Dave Roberts of Ancoats Guitars has been on this journey throughout the year, taking incremental leaps towards a life devoted to his guitar building business. As Dave told us recently at The London International Guitar Show: “It started off as a side hustle, but it’s taken over my life! ” Making an investment The first commitment demanded by your fledgling business might come in the shape of a sizable investment. That could be signing the lease on a workspace, bulk-buying materials or acquiring equipment. Sunk costs like these, known to the business world as ‘capex’ or capital expenditure, can tie you into your project for as long as it takes to recoup your investment. Tools of the trade For Dave it was at this point when things started to get real: “Probably the first scary moment for me was investing in the tooling I needed to start production on a decent scale. I knew at that point that I’d have to turn out a good few guitars before I covered my costs and started to turn a profit. ” For many entrepreneurs, an investment along these lines might be the first test of their commitment to their venture....

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> Gift Voucher printing offers a win-win-win situation for retailers, gift givers and recipients, but there are a few golden rules to follow.

- Published: 2022-11-21
- Modified: 2023-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/a-guide-to-introducing-gift-vouchers/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

Gift Vouchers offer a win-win-win situation. Your customer gets a convenient gift-giving solution. The recipient gets a nice surprise. As the seller, you get the added bonus of cash in the till upfront. When it comes to essentially creating your own currency, though, there are a few important details to address. As we’ll see, some of these issues stray into areas of accountancy and the law, so if you’re in any doubt about the legal and financial details around Gift Vouchers, we’d certainly recommend seeking advice from a professional. Last things first It pays to think backwards when it comes to introducing Gift Vouchers. Ironically, aftercare needs to be one of the first things you consider. Start out by trying to list every likely eventuality that could occur when customers buy and redeem your Gift Vouchers. How do you provide change if the voucher holder’s purchase is less than the value of the voucher? What happens if a recipient brings back a faulty item, purchased with a voucher, and demands a refund in cash? What happens if a recipient presents you with a ten year old voucher? What would happen if you ceased trading? You can avoid confusion and acrimony by considering these eventualities ahead of time and formulating a lawful and reasonable policy which you can set out in your terms and conditions. How to write terms and conditions? Composing terms and conditions requires some water-tight language. Unless you have legal training though, it’s best not to attempt to...

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> Christmas is stampeding towards us at a rate of knots. Here are some tips on how to create Christmas print with added sparkle.

- Published: 2022-11-16
- Modified: 2022-12-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/7-ways-to-season-your-christmas-print/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Christmas

Christmas is stampeding towards us at a rate of knots. This special season means different things to different people, but most people associate this time of year with festivity and celebration. Whether we’re gifted a white Christmas or not, snow and sparkles go hand in hand with everyone’s winter expectations. Putting a seasonal twist on your print campaigns can take you that extra mile to earn a special place in your customers’ hearts. Here are some tips on how to create Christmas prints with added sparkle. Finishes Foil goes hand in hand with Christmas, and not only when it’s time to put the turkey in the oven. The seasonal sparkle supplied by a Foil finish is certain to take your Christmas print to a luxurious new level. This lavish look adds texture, highlights text and defines your design. Including it within your artwork will create a shine that sits superbly amongst the rest of your customers’ seasonal decorations. A Foil finish can feature on a fantastic selection of products and our expanded array of Foil colours allows you to create your perfect seasonal print. Gold to resemble the star on top of the tree, silver to match the tinsel, or even red and green to imitate Santa and his elves, mix and match your Foil colours to set your Christmas print alight. If this finish isn’t your cup of tea, look no further than Spot UV. Give your seasonal print a sleek finish that won’t look out of place surrounded...

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> Calendars and Christmas Cards proved to be a great way for Ancoats Guitars to get in front of their audience for the holidays and beyond.

- Published: 2022-11-11
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-christmas-cards-calendars/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs
- Tags: Christmas, Christmas Cards

Our year spent supporting Ancoats Guitars in its first twelve months of trading is now a good way through. With Christmas around the corner, founder Dave Roberts, like most business owners, felt the need to acknowledge the season and send his best wishes to customers, contacts and suppliers. Season's Greetings A bespoke Christmas Card design has become standard practice among businesses of all sizes. It’s not only an opportunity to strengthen bonds with the people that matter, it’s also a great opportunity to make a splash with your design. If you’re in a creative industry, a one-off artwork can show off your chops. For other businesses, the team photo approach may be a little old hat, but when you don’t engage with clients face to face, it’s still a good opportunity to show them who they’re dealing with. Manufacturers may choose to feature a new product, with the caveat that this is a greetings card, not an advert! Christmas Concepts When it came to designing the Ancoats Guitars Christmas Card, Dave worked with Solopress designer Matt Bruty to develop and refine his ideas. The initial brief was left open, with Dave giving Matt free reign to come up with an assortment of concepts. Matt was able to create rough drafts that explored a number of themes around Ancoats Guitars and Christmas. His ideas were inspired by existing brand assets, abstract Christmas themes, the Ancoats location and its distinctive red brick architecture, and of course, the guitars themselves. This approach of...

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> Here’s our round-up of 10 funny, yet family friendly, printed Cups and Mugs, along with some top tips on what we can learn from them.

- Published: 2022-11-10
- Modified: 2022-11-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-10-funniest-printed-mugs-on-etsy/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Printed mug humour is a strange niche. It’s a polarised landscape, with precious little middle ground between kitsch tat and downright obscenity. All too often, it’s either “My other drink is a prosecco! ” or “XXXCENSOREDXXX”. Here, we seek to navigate a path between these two extremes, bringing you genuinely comedic cups that keep it clean. We’ve chosen Etsy. com as our hunting ground, the ecommerce platform that’s home to over 5 million sellers of handmade and bespoke items. So, in no particular order, here’s our round-up of 10 funny, yet family-friendly, printed cups and mugs, along with some top tips on what you can learn from them about designing some of your own. 1. 99% of my socks are single This is a typical example of a prevailing trend that we’re calling ‘Ceramic Cynicism’. A no-nonsense design combines the universal experience of sock wearers everywhere with a world-weary reprimand to self-pitying singletons. Just try to make your brew less bitter than the message. Top tip: ramp up the grumpiness to cash in on the ‘Ceramic Cynicism’ trend. 2. Not yet... Perhaps the most common theme within ‘Ceramic Cynicism’ is the hostility that you can expect from the mug-owner prior to their morning dose of coffee. Many examples of this theme use language we’d rather not repeat, but this clean version works well enough. Top tip: the effects of coffee on the body and the temperament can be amusing areas to explore. 3. Garlic bread Garlic? Bread? What better way...

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> Discover Google Ads and why incorporating print along with your online advertising is imperative for every business.

- Published: 2022-10-28
- Modified: 2022-10-31
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/silvia-coletto-paid-ads-school/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Customer Stories: Google Ads expert Google Ads is a daunting place for some. For others, it’s a playground. Knowing where all the toys are and which ones to play with can help you turn this space into your playground, elevating your business to extraordinary heights as a result. Our customer, Silvia Coletto of Paid Ads School, is an expert in this field and empowers businesses through paid ads on Google. We spoke to her to find out more about Google Advertising and why incorporating print along with your online marketing is imperative for every business. Need help with paid ads? Silvia moved from Italy to England in 2014. She’s an expert in paid advertising and specifically works on search engine marketing, as well as consulting on how to optimise paid ads for the best returns. On top of this, Silvia gives business talks and is the author of ‘Are You Ready For Paid Ads: How to get your business ready for massive growth'. She is particularly passionate about working with business-to-business (B2B) companies and Nonprofits. As a PPC expert, Silvia not only gets her clients started with paid ads but also provides training so they can unlock Google’s full potential for their business. With experience managing clients of all sizes, she has managed several million pounds in advertising spend across a multitude of industries, regularly exceeding client expectations in the process. Not all heroes wear capes Working so closely with their product or service can leave many companies out of...

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> Our free downloadable template gives you a Branded World Cup 2022 Wall Chart that gets you off the bench and into the game.

- Published: 2022-10-26
- Modified: 2022-11-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-create-a-branded-world-cup-2022-wall-chart/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Football fever is reaching boiling point as the Qatar World Cup is under a month away! This Winter’s tournament begs to be a whirlwind of world-class performances. Unless you have a sixth sense with eyes in the back of your head, you and your customers will need a World Cup 2022 Wall Chart to stay on the ball as the competition unfolds. Our free downloadable easy-to-use template gives you the opportunity to add your own logo and print a Branded World Cup Wall Chart that gets you off the bench and into the game. Why a Wall Chart? Wall Charts are the ultimate way to keep track of who’s playing who, when games are being played and the all-important final score lines. This print not only builds excitement but also offers a wonderfully useful item to stay on top of the hectic fixture schedule. FIFA have created their own 2022 World Cup chart, however, plenty of brands create their own branded version to keep their names in contention. Displaying your brand throughout the tournament has many benefits! Branded Wall Planners: Keep your brand on target throughout the tournament. Put your customers in possession of the best way to keep up with the final scores. Gives your customers a special piece of memorabilia to treasure with your name on. While FIFA owns specific rights such as their logo and image of the trophy, other businesses remain in free space and unmarked when it comes to creating their own branded Planners. How...

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> There’s more to the humble Pen Tool than meets the eye. In this video, we show you how to make the most of Photoshop’s most underrated tool.

- Published: 2022-10-10
- Modified: 2023-01-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-pen-tool-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

The Pen Tool is often the first thing you reach for in Adobe Photoshop, but there’s more to this go-to gadget than meets the eye. In this tutorial, graphic designer Oscar Jackson shows you how to make the most of Photoshop’s most underrated function. In this video, you’ll learn how to customise the tool to your own preferences, how to create a path and steer it around curves and angles, and also how to tidy up when you make mistakes! In this video, Oscar will take you through how to: Create a path Negotiate curves and angles Correct errors Place and manipulate anchor points Join up your path create a curve from flat lines https://youtu. be/agbTxCTKDNo Transcription In this video I'll be showing you how to use the Pen Tool. To select the Pen Tool, press the letter P on your keyboard or you can find it in your toolbar. So now that we've got the Pen Tool selected, head to the top of your Photoshop document and there should be a cog like this. Click the cog and a dropdown menu will appear. In this dropdown menu you can change the thickness and colour of your path style. I personally like having the thickness at two pixels and I like my colour light red. We also want to make sure that the rubber band box is checked. Having this on, especially if you are new to using the Pen Tool, is great as it gives you a preview of...

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> A Business Card offers a truly unique way to make a powerful first impression. With such little space, it’s important to know what to fit in.

- Published: 2022-09-26
- Modified: 2023-05-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/12-things-to-include-on-a-business-card/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

Business Card printing offers a truly unique way to make a powerful first impression. With such little space, it’s important to know what to include. Everything on your design should earn the right to be there. Printing double-sided will afford you more space to inject your product with your identity. A perfect Business Card brings a checklist of essential elements together. Here are twelve things we believe you should always make room for on your cards. Each ingredient of this recipe is equally important and warrants its place in your print. 1. Company name Your company name is a critical detail. Without a name, Business Card receivers won’t know who it came from. With the standard Business Card size being small offering limited space, a strong name should include what services you offer to your customers. Give your name room to breathe in your design, so it has enough space to soak up maximum attention. As a general rule, your company name is usually the largest piece of text on your design, as this is what people will remember most distinctly. Be clear; Gregg’s The Bakers tells your customers what you do better than Gregg’s. Likewise, Essex Scaffolding Company is more obvious to your recipients than ESC. 2. Logo A great logo becomes the centrepiece of a brilliant Business Card. If you’re printing double-sided, ensure your eye-catching logo sits firmly on the front of your design for maximum impact. This is your chance to show what you do without saying...

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> Knowing how to use social media icons when designing Business Cards is a brilliant stepping stone to securing business from new contacts.

- Published: 2022-09-21
- Modified: 2023-02-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/how-to-use-social-media-icons-on-business-cards/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

Knowing how to use social media icons when designing Business Cards is a brilliant stepping stone to securing business from new contacts. Traditionally, this role would have been fulfilled by your website. However, while a website is still a great place to send your customers, social networks might offer a more attractive, effortless place to send them. Creating the most effective print possible is our mission, so this article will give you the tools to involve social media in your Business Card design in innovative and powerful ways. What are social media icons? Social media icons are the brand logos of each platform. By including them on your Business Card, you’re advertising your presence on these platforms to your customers. Social media icons: Attract customers Build brand loyalty Expand your potential consumer base Reduce marketing costs (it’s free! ) Increase revenue If you decide to put them on your Business Cards, add the social media icons you’re most engaged with or that your customers will find most helpful. For example, if you’re a visual business, Instagram is the best platform for you to show off your business to customers. If you offer a more educative, informational service, then Twitter or Facebook could be better platforms for you to broadcast this on. Ultimately, the ball is in your court. If you only want to push one social media platform in particular, then only include one icon on your Business Card. When you use an icon on your print, it’s important that...

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> The Manchester Model Railway Society is the third oldest model railway society in the world and will soon celebrate its centenary.

- Published: 2022-09-12
- Modified: 2022-09-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/manchester-model-railway-society/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Exhibitions, Flyers & Leaflets

Since the late 19th century, model trains have been desired by kids all over the world. Lockdown in 2020 saw many people, young and old, rekindle or discover a passion for their model railway. Being the third oldest model train society in the world, the Manchester Model Railway Society didn’t need lockdown to rediscover its love for train modelling. We spoke to Philip Sweet from the society to see how print remains the fuel that keeps them on track. The inside track: Manchester Model Railway Society Founded in 1925, the Manchester Model Railway Society at present has about 140 members, including two enthusiasts living abroad! Groups of about a dozen members gather weekly in Sale, Southwest Manchester, to socialise, build and plan, especially now it’s full steam ahead for their annual exhibition. Philip Sweet, the society’s exhibition manager, has been a member for 15 years. When he came to Solopress for help with their 83rd public show, Philip’s pride and passion for his society were palpable. Track record Model trains were first documented in 1859, with the Chemin de fer du Prince Imperial built for Emperor Napolean III’s son. It was a clockwork set which resided in Chateau de Saint-Cloud, Paris. Model trains became commercial in the late 19th century and have been a staple of any child’s Christmas list ever since. Originally, they were made from tin, lead or wood. Unpowered floor pull trains were brought to market in Germany by the Märklin brothers, who rather astutely saw them...

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> We take a look at Business Cards on TV and in the movies to see if they score a HIT or a MISS in terms of design, content and impact.

- Published: 2022-09-12
- Modified: 2023-11-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-cards-on-screen-the-hits-and-the-misses/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

A well-rounded fictional character is one that fully inhabits their world. They often have an elaborate back story that includes what role they serve in their society. So as long as they’re human beings or similar, living within two or three centuries of the present day, why shouldn’t they have personalised Business Cards? It’s important to get it right though. Just as it is in the real world, some characters in the movies hit a home run with their Business Cards, and some miss the mark. We take a look at some on-screen examples and decide what’s a HIT and what’s a MISS. Squid Games (2021) HIT With its distinctive trio of shapes and promise of debt relief, the Squid Games Business Card sent a simple message, but one that was to have sinister consequences. Not only was the card successful within the story, attracting hordes of debt-laden hopefuls to sign up, but it also became an iconic prop in Netflix’s most successful global series ever. Regardless of the chilling outcome, you can’t deny that level of engagement! American Psycho (2000) MISS In one of the film’s most memorable scenes, Christian Bale’s character comes pretty much dead last in the battle of the American Psycho Business Cards. Van Patten’s card is eggshell with Romalian type. Timothy Bryce has raised lettering on pale nimbus white. Paul Allen’s Business Card even has a watermark! Patrick Bateman’s Business Card is a MISS and he knows it. Watch out, Paul Allen! Fight Club (1999)...

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> Here are the 18 best free fonts to use on your print and some things you should think about when choosing typography for your business!

- Published: 2022-09-08
- Modified: 2022-09-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/18-best-free-fonts-to-use-on-your-print/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Have you ever spent hours trying to figure out the best font style for your print work? Each font style is fantastic but not every style is suited for every type of print. Some typography is more suited depending on the copy and its context. Here are the 18 best free fonts to use on your print as well as some things you should be thinking about when choosing the ideal typography style for your business! Style or substance? It's important to think about what style of font might be most appropriate for your print. For example, if your business is known for being creative or innovative then it’s important to use a font style to reflect this, rather than a standard font, such as Times New Roman. Unless you're after a specific look, a serif font like Times New Roman most often just looks like, boring unformatted text. Some fonts will look like you haven't made an effort... Send the right message Consider what format of print your font will be used on. What kind of copy are you designing and what is its purpose? If you are designing a Roller Banner for a one-off event or to highlight a special offer, you may choose a bolder, more eye-catching font that you’d use for more formal literature such as letterheads. There’s nothing wrong with mixing things up occasionally. It can create a striking effect and generate interest. However, if you use too many different fonts or styles for each...

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> Knowing how to cut out images in Photoshop is something every designer needs to know. However, different shaped images different challenges.

- Published: 2022-09-02
- Modified: 2022-09-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-cut-out-images-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Knowing how to cut out images in Photoshop is a necessary string that every designer should add to their bow. However, different shaped images throw up different challenges. Our designer, Oscar Jackson, takes you through several techniques he uses to cut out images and remove backgrounds in Photoshop. In this video, Oscar will take you through how to use: The polygonal lasso tool Layer masks The magnet lasso tool The pen tool The object selection tool The quick selection tool The magic wand tool https://youtu. be/7GqbIvzxopo Click the red button above to subscribe to our YouTube Channel and check out our previous video tutorials to explore and help you with your design endeavours. Video transcription In this video, I'll be showing you how to cut out images and remove backgrounds in Photoshop. I'll begin with the basics and move on to more advanced techniques throughout. You can find the timestamps below in the description if there's a segment of the video you'd like to skip to. The first tool I'll be teaching you how to use is the polygonal lasso tool. The polygonal lasso tool is quite a basic tool but it's useful for cutting straight-edged selections, and an image like this is perfect, as you can see, there is lots of straight edges. To select the lasso tool, what we want to do is head to the toolbar, and you should see a lasso like this. If you hold left-click, three options will appear and we are going to...

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> A Selfie Frame is the perfect plus one to bring to any celebration, whatever you’re hosting or attending, they’re a great addition.

- Published: 2022-08-18
- Modified: 2022-09-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/10-events-you-need-a-selfie-frame-for/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Branding

A Selfie Frame is the perfect plus one to bring to any celebration, no matter the occasion. They’re the guest who makes everyone laugh, gathers people together and helps make the event a memorable one. Whatever get-together you’re planning on hosting or attending, they’re a brilliant addition. Event planners, photographers and venue managers could all benefit from keeping a selection of fun-themed Selfie Frames on hand to bring an extra dimension to parties and celebrations. Here are our top ten events we think a Selfie Frame is essential for. Birthday parties Help your customers celebrate their annual trip around the sun with a Selfie Frame to capture those special moments. A fun frame offers a timely incentive to capture those smiles that stretch from cheek to cheek, those laughs that you can still hear through a photo or those treasured embraces from loved ones. A one-off customised design dedicated to the birthday boy or girl will make them feel extra special on their big day. Weddings A wedding day is as special as they come. A once-in-a-lifetime moment that needs a photo album of its own. Bring a photo booth filled with photo props to your customers and they’ll let loose with their best friends and loved ones. Customise your frame with a unique design specific to the couple. Include their names so everyone can get their photo together on their special day. Business shows Business shows can feel a little cagey at the outset. A Selfie Frame is a...

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> Imagine the lengths you’d have to go to charge 12,164,300 smartphones. Picture the carbon footprint of 100 return flights from London to NY

- Published: 2022-08-15
- Modified: 2023-09-15
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-offset-100000-kg-of-co2/
- Categories: Eco Friendly, Solopress News

Imagine the lengths you’d have to go to charge 12,164,300 smartphones. Picture the pollution of 100 return flights from London to New York. Or the carbon footprint of driving 310,600dpd kilometres by car. These activities are equal to the emission of 100,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide, the same amount that Solopress has managed to offset in a little over a year. Thanks to the way you've embraced our Solopress Green range, we've managed to hit this massive milestone. An extraordinary achievement in such a short period, our offsetting efforts are a vital part of our green mission. This project, which started as a sapling, is now genuinely taking root. The 100,000 kg of carbon emissions that we’ve neutralised in just over a year is the equivalent of the yearly capture of CO2 from 8,000 beech trees and exemplifies our commitment to a greener future for everyone. What is 100,000 kg of CO2? 100,000 kilograms is a pretty incomprehensible quantity to make sense of, especially when it comes to CO2 gas. To put this into context, 100,000 kilograms is the mass of carbon dioxide that would be produced by: Driving 310,600 kilometres in your car Putting on 107,500 wash cycles at 60˚C Producing 6,000 pairs of running shoes Producing 8,100 kilograms of beef Melting 300m3/300,000 litres of ice in the Arctic Setting off 100 hot air balloons at once The goal of carbon offsetting Addressing our carbon footprint is important as it’s a critical index for measuring our impact on the...

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> The sweltering weather is in full effect, but are you bringing the heat when it comes to getting your message across with summer print?

- Published: 2022-08-04
- Modified: 2022-08-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/your-summer-print-survival-kit/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Branding

The sweltering weather is in full effect, but are you bringing the heat when it comes to getting your message across in these summer months? There are plenty of summer-themed print products available that can help your audience have fun in the sun while working up a real sweat making your brand visible. Gazebos Gazebos are Britain’s best friend in the summer. They’re there to provide shade during sweltering temperatures, like our recent record-breaking heatwave, but they’ll shelter you equally as well when the heavens open. With a Gazebo, you’ll be covered whatever the British summer throws at you. These Gazebos make the perfect stall for festivals, market stands or to complete a pub garden. Gazebo’s become the focal point of every setup and with your brand firmly placed as the focal point, they’ll stick firmly in the memory of everyone having a good time. Parasols Sunshine is a blessing but when there’s too much of a good thing, Parasols will bring you comfort and shelter from the menacing heat! Create a vivid design and watch your brand sizzle in the sun. A custom Parasol is a brilliant way for your customers to enjoy your brand. Waterproof to keep you dry and fire-rated so you don’t burn, Parasol’s offer a fantastic addition to your summer survival kit. They’re a perfect addition to beer gardens and will look like an armada strung along a beach, alongside deck chairs, for your customers to enjoy the sun this summer without overheating. Seating In...

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> A professionally designed Nursery Leaflet offers an unmissable opportunity to express your ethos and remain the most.

- Published: 2022-07-27
- Modified: 2022-07-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/creating-the-complete-nursery-leaflet/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Nurseries operate in a competitive market, with each school vying to be the number one destination for early years development in their area. Given the fact that nursery schools are often over-subscribed, you’d be forgiven for thinking the fiercest competition would exist between rival parents, not rival nurseries! However, reaching out to your audience with printed material remains important in conveying information about your nursery. Professionally designed Nursery Flyers offer an unmissable opportunity to express your ethos and remain the most sought-after pre-school in your area. Eager parents will be grateful to learn when to register, how to apply and what your deadlines are. How to design a Nursery Leaflet Get creative with your Flyer design and persuade parents that your nursery is the ideal choice for them to let their kids develop through their early years. How you design your nursery Flyer should depend upon your design experience. If you’re a more experienced designer, free-styling will be more suited to you. Alternatively, our dedicated in-house team are more than ready to step in and produce your perfect print if you need help in the design process. Ways to design your Nursery Flyer: From scratch Flyer templates Create your own Nursery Flyer example From scratch Experienced designers may be more comfortable starting from a blank canvas when creating their perfect nursery Leaflet. If you’re confident in providing artwork with the correct colours, bleed, margin and safe areas then starting from scratch will suit you. For more detailed information on artwork...

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> Wireless Charging brings a solution to many people’s pet peeve: wires. This begs the question, are we on the road to a wireless future?

- Published: 2022-07-20
- Modified: 2023-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/are-we-on-the-road-to-a-wireless-future/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Branding

Wireless Charging brings a solution to many people’s pet peeve: wires. Wires are mysterious objects. They’re great for charging our devices, but as soon as you take your eyes off them, they either disappear from the existence or tie themselves in an unsolvable knot, seemingly of their own accord. Plus, who enjoys standing on a plug? Bluetooth and WiFi have already delivered us from the nightmare of tangled earbuds and ethernet trip hazards. Could wireless charging finally drag us out from under the cosh of the cable? Works like magic If you’ve purchased a phone in the last five years, chances are your phone will be capable of charging wirelessly! This works via a magnetic field created between your wireless charger and phone, where power is transferred. Through the magnetic field, a current is transmitted to the charging device. It’s this strong current which loads your phone full of juice. This technique is known as inductive charging. Wireless chargers bring your phone back to life without the need for a flimsy phone cable which can easily break and is seldom long enough. Easy to use, you simply pop your device on top of one of these wizardly creations and watch it reach 100%. Slightly misleading, the ‘wireless’ charger itself actually requires a USB cable to deliver its magic powers. Plug them into your laptop or wall wart and forget that phone chargers ever existed. Under the wire You would have thought that wireless charging is something of a new invention....

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> UK Festival season is well underway as crowds flock to see the stars of the 2022 line-ups. Glastonbury 2022 was reincarnated spectacularly.

- Published: 2022-07-15
- Modified: 2022-07-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/uk-festival-posters-2022-whos-top-of-the-charts/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Posters

UK Festival season is well underway as crowds flock to see the stars of the 2022 line-ups. Glastonbury 2022 was reincarnated spectacularly, after a two-year hiatus. In 2019, the UK festival scene was valued at a staggering £1. 1 billion. The festival market in 2022, bolstered by a post-covid surge in demand and the prospect of a long hot summer, looks set to be another record-breaker. We looked at the largest 10 British music festivals to crown who’s created the best Poster for the 2022 festival season. The Bigger picture - UK festival attendances: Glastonbury – 210,000 Download – 110,000 Reading & Leeds – 90,000 Isle of Wight – 90,000 Creamfields North – 70,000 – South – 50,000 Parklife – 80,000 BoomTown – 76,000 All Points East – 50,000 Boardmasters – 50,000 Wireless – 49,000 Glastonbury - Hit Since 2015, Glastonbury has adapted a multi-coloured, more playful theme. Each poster since has presented a variation on that theme – the only thing that has been significantly tweaked and changed in this time are the names of the acts. The fact that the style hasn’t changed in five festivals is a testament to its success as a design. After all, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. All the headliners can clearly be seen from the top line and working down the list are the acts that will perform on other stages. The hierarchy is good and the use of coloured text works well. The temptation for the first festival since...

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> Here are several tips we’ve found and used that can help your proofreading in order to make your print perfect!

- Published: 2022-07-06
- Modified: 2022-08-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/10-tips-to-proofreading-your-work/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography
- Tags: Branding

Profread, proofreed, and proofread again We’ve all been there. Hours of research done. Hours of words written. Happy with the work, you click publish. Boom. You’ve spotted a major spelling mistake in the first line. Any credibility you’d hoped to bring to your article goes flying out of the window. But how did this happen? Without realising, psychology plays an enormous impact on our internal spellchecker. There are several tips we’ve found and used that can help you proofread your work to make your print perfect! DO sweat the small stuff Why are typos so obvious once the print job is complete? Changing the nature of what you’ve written and how it looks is key to proofreading. Our brains are programmed to read what we think we wrote and can fail to see our errors as a result. Tricking your brain into believing it’s reading that copy for the first time, is the ultimate art of proofreading. The basics To begin proofreading, use your machine, laptop or phone’s spell checker to eliminate any simple typos. Remember to check that your computer has the correct regional language selected i. e. UK vs. US. Computers don’t always get it right, so having a printed dictionary to hand will be your perfect partner. Try reading through your writing in three stages: Firstly, read the document to see if all the necessary information is there. This could mean dates and times for an event on a Flyer or thorough explanations of services in a...

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> What is it about the Tour de France which makes something we’re all capable of, in riding a bike, one of the most world-renowned sports?

- Published: 2022-06-29
- Modified: 2022-07-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/tour-de-france-a-branded-masterclass/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Branding

Riding a bike is something we’re all taught from a young age. Teaching your kids to ride their bike is a proud moment for any parent. However, very few remain on the saddle long enough to be in with a chance to stand at the Champs-Élysées wearing the yellow jersey, as the winner of the Tour de France. What is it about the Tour de France which makes something we’re all capable of, in riding a bike, one of the most elite and world-renowned sports on Earth? Champs-Élysées On your bike! Every summer, the bike race takes place over three weeks, mainly through the stunningly picturesque scenery of the French countryside. Each day of the race is called a stage and there are 21 stages with each Tour de France. Riders cycle in teams of eight. Each of the 22 teams will have their own set of goals which gives this race so many conflicting interests. For some teams, the objective is to capture the yellow jersey or the ‘maillot jaune’ and ride it down the home stretch in Paris during the historic final stage. The yellow jersey is worn by the leader in the “general classification”, or GC, which grades the riders in order of who has completed the race in the quickest time. Many teams compete for the green jersey which is typically worn by the leader of the points classification. Points are won at stage finishes or at intermediate sprints, so is typically worn by sprinters. Marcel...

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> Private tuition is a thriving industry, it’s becoming more competitive all the time. Creating a tuition flyer is the ideal first step.

- Published: 2022-06-27
- Modified: 2022-07-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/creating-the-perfect-tutoring-flyer/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Private tuition is a thriving industry, but one that’s becoming more competitive all the time. The way tutors market themselves to parents is crucial when it comes to gaining new business. Creating a tuition flyer is the ideal first step. It’s important that your marketing material should appear approachable and supportive, demonstrating that you can engage with students on their level. At the same time, your Flyers needs to display a level of professionalism that allows parents to take you seriously. A combination of winning design along with accurate and compelling text should express these ideas while conveying essential information about the service you provide and a call to action for prospective clients to get in touch. Ways to design a Tuition Flyer When you’re looking to design your Tuition Flyers you can go entirely free-hand (recommended for experienced designers only) or use the various resources we make available to help you on your way. If it all seems a bit outside of your comfort zone, you can contact us and we can put our talented team of in-house designers to work and create the artwork for you. However, if you’d like to provide your own artwork, there are four paths you can take, depending on your design skills or access to a graphic designer. From scratch If you’re experienced in designing for print and you're confident about providing artwork in the correct colour, space and resolution with bleed and safe areas, then you’re welcome to go free-hand and create...

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> The simple Director's chair is a mainstay of movie making. But how did this elegant design come about, and how can it boost your business?

- Published: 2022-06-24
- Modified: 2022-06-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/filmstar-furniture-the-role-of-the-directors-chair/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

How emblematic is the director’s chair as a symbol of Hollywood filmmaking? Put it this way, if you were going to make a film about making a film, how would you furnish your set? Beyond the clapperboard and film cameras, I’m sure you’d sit your fictional cast and crew down in director’s chairs. Many big-name directors have done just that when depicting the movie industry on-screen. Clockwise from top left: Ralph Fiennes in Hail, Caesar! (2016), Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019), Susan Sarandon and Jessica Lange in Feud (2017), and Anthony Hopkins in Hitchcock (2012). In Hail, Caesar! , the Coen Brothers showed characters relaxing in director’s chairs during downtime, and so did Quentin Tarantino in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The Netflix series Feud, with Susan Sarandon and Jessica Lange as Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, saw the leads parked in personalised chairs. And when Anthony Hopkins starred in the 2012 biopic Hitchcock, he rested his artificially padded behind in this quintessential piece of on-set furniture. So how did this familiar design come about? And how did it become so closely associated with the movies? Three-act structure The economical design of the director’s chair is the epitome of behind-the-scenes practicality. Two canvas pieces simultaneously hold the hinged wooden frame together under tension while comfortably cradling the sitter. They’re easy to collapse and carry because of the scissor action of the crossed legs, perfect for switching locations. No surprise then that...

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> What other manufacturing process can be seen influencing so many other industries as heavily as 3D printing?

- Published: 2022-06-24
- Modified: 2022-07-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/3d-printing-the-solution-to-our-problems/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Leading organisations believe that 3D printing could become one of the largest technological advances in history. What other manufacturing process can be seen influencing so many other industries as heavily as 3D printing? The devil’s in the detail 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, produces items layer by layer. Physical objects are produced by successive thin layers of material being added on top of each other until the final product is complete. Supported by computer-aided design (CAD), 3D printing brings digital objects into physical form through this additive process. This method differentiates from traditional techniques which are subtractive, such as moulding or casting. A footnote in history Charles Hull started the ball rolling along the 3D printing timeline, 36 years ago in 1986. He patented stereolithography, a process that uses a computer-controlled moveable laser beam to shape objects. It wasn’t until the mid-2000’s that this technology started to diversify and flourish. At this time, 3D printing began to specialise in the manufacture of one-off and short-run components, thanks to low tooling and set-up costs. This diversification is still gathering speed to this day, with the flexibility of the process seeing it find applications in almost every industry. Planes, Trains and Automobiles - and 3D printing? Light bulbs, steam engines, cars and aeroplanes have all been revolutionary landmarks in human history. Many from within the manufacturing industries claim that the powers of 3D printing could join that exclusive club. With new applications emerging day by day, the full power and...

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> With 2022's festival under way, we asked our design team to cast a critical eye over the hit Glastonbury poster designs, and the misses...

- Published: 2022-06-22
- Modified: 2022-06-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/glastonbury-poster-designs-reviewed/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Posters

Since its inception in 1970, Glastonbury has firmly established itself as one of the biggest festivals in the world, with Michael Eavis bringing the crème de la crème of the music world to Somerset on a consistent basis. To tie in with this year's festival, we asked our design team to cast their expert eyes over some of the iconic Glastonbury line-up posters that have been produced over the years. Intro Glastonbury 2022 has just thrown open the gates to its throng of faithful festival goers who have been starved of their annual trip to Worthy Farm since 2019. The festival even missed its own 50th birthday party in 2020 owing to the Coronavirus pandemic. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, though, and this year's festival – with the sun shining and Sir Paul McCartney filling the top slot on Saturday – should prove to be an all-time classic. So, what better time to look back at the festival's branding past and present and track how the famous Glastonbury poster has evolved over the past half-a-century? Trends can change quickly and graphic styles are prone to becoming outdated over the years. But if the history of Glastonbury posters is anything to go by, their visual identity through poster design is protected from the passage of time by its ability to bring back amazing memories to any avid concert-goer. Glastonbury has commented on their visual identity: "We have a lot of artists and 47 years of history so we don’t normally...

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> Is carbon offsetting just a greenwashing scheme to finesse the public images of big businesses? As a business and as customers which is best?

- Published: 2022-06-16
- Modified: 2023-09-15
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/carbon-offsetting-v-recycling/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

We hear about carbon offsetting and recycling constantly. Through the polluted mist, carbon offsetting has seemingly replaced recycling as the Everest of green living. Is offsetting just a greenwashing scheme to finesse the public images of big businesses? Moreover, as a business and as a customer, which should we prioritise? Recycling - a thing of the past? Recycling is the method of creating new products out of materials that would have otherwise been thrown away as rubbish. It is by no means a new invention. Since prehistoric times, broken tools would be reused when materials were scarce. Recycling has been noted in modern civilisation since 9th century Japan but the damaging impact that waste has on all life on earth hasn’t truly been understood until now. Modern day recycling methods have made this process unrecognisable from its humble origins. With more opportunities to recycle than ever before, why is only 9% of human waste being recycled? From plastics to phones; glass to organic waste: there’s very little that can’t be disposed of in a responsible manner. However, despite this unprecedented awareness of the need to recycle, it seems the human race is failing to take its own advice. A recent study revealed that of all the plastic waste humans produce, 79% arrives in landfills or the natural environment, 12% is burned, and as previously mentioned, only 9% is recycled. Recycling can prevent millions of tons of material from being dumped in landfills. A landfill is the equivalent of sweeping the...

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> In our latest blog, we follow Dave Roberts as he exhibits Ancoats Guitars at The Guitar Show armed with fresh printed material & merchandise.

- Published: 2022-05-25
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-goes-to-the-guitar-show/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

The Guitar Show in Birmingham was the second trade event where luthier Dave Roberts has had a chance to exhibit Ancoats Guitars. This time Dave was armed with a second round of printed material and merchandise to help big up his brand. We’ve been following the fortunes of Ancoats Guitars in our Start-up Stories blog series, so we were keen to see how things went at guitar show number two. We caught up with Dave to find out whether he was able to put into practice any of the trade show secrets he learned the first time around. Print preparation One thing that was different this time round was the extended range of printed material Dave had at his disposal. For his visit to the North East Guitar Show, which we covered in our previous Start Up Stories blog entry, Dave had already worked with Solopress to produce Roller Banners and a Printed Tablecloth to enhance his stand, in addition to Flyers, Business Card and Comp Slips.   Since the last event, we’d been hard at work creating new elements once again. At the North East Guitar Show, Dave found himself improvising product labels from the Comp Slips we’d produced. For a more polished solution, we were able to design and print branded Swing Tags to hang from the instruments themselves. Trade show swag As promotional giveaway items, we produced A3 Posters with a stylised representation of the Ancoats Guitars logo in a contemporary block pattern design. The posters also...

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> Leaflet design has evolved so much over the last 600 years with Flyers and Leaflets having transformed modern day communication.

- Published: 2022-05-18
- Modified: 2023-02-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-amazing-and-unique-600-year-history-of-flyer-and-leaflet-design/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Leaflet design and written language in the modern era are truly unrecognisable from their humble origins. Starting as Stone age cave drawings and growing into the first recognised alphabet of Egyptian Hieroglyphics, language has flourished into the 4,065 developed writing systems in the modern-day. Methods for conveying information have evolved from the primitive signalling and mark-making of pre-historic times, through handwritten manuscripts in the Middle Ages. The advent of the printing press in 1439 opened a jar of new possibilities for print. And ever since there’s been printing, there’s been Leaflets or Flyers in some form. How Flyers and Leaflets have been deployed through the years shows the diversity of this printed medium. Some of the most iconic prints being produced on a handout. Here we explore the history of printed leaflets through their eventful lifespan thus far. Leaflet’s origins Religious wars on print Pamphlets and the English Civil War Flyers' soaring influence on the American constitution Slave trade pamphlet campaign Leaflets supporting the women’s suffrage movement World War Flyer propaganda Leaflet bombs in World War Two Peacetime print – How did pamphlets evolve after the war? Flyers and Leaflets in a digital world The birth of print... and propaganda Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press in 15th century Germany which opened a new door for print production. Pamphleteering was originally used as religious propaganda by social elites. 15th-century Leaflets were used throughout England, France, and Germany. This was an era when only the rich and powerful could scribe, therefore...

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> Watch our video tutorial and read our 10 top tips about how to design Flyers & Leaflets to turn your latest campaign into a marketing triumph!

- Published: 2022-05-06
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-flyers-and-leaflets/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

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> We spoke with Solopress customer Katy Emmett from Mighty Events Ltd to find out how she uses print to promote the Mighty Dub Fest.

- Published: 2022-04-12
- Modified: 2023-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/mighty-dub-fest/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Glastonbury, Download, Boardmasters: iconic UK music festivals that require little promotion, with the symbolic Somerset festival alone selling out in 25 minutes last year. In an industry that rakes in £1. 1 billion a year, and attracts 3. 7 million festival attendees annually like clockwork, how can you crash such a crowded party? Print offers a powerful toolkit for smaller promoters: amplifying their voice and helping them to get their message out to the masses. Print connects people to your purpose and it’s a great way to expand your audience, as Katy Emmett from Mighty Events Ltd has discovered. Introducing Mighty Dub Fest Volkswagen campervans, live music, fabulous food and brilliant brews. Mighty Dub Fest certainly sounds like a recipe for a whole lot of fun. Make no mistake, this thriving festival is the result of a lot of hard work and hard-won business experience. In fact, Mighty Dub Fest has grown so much, that it had to change venues three times during its fledgling years, eventually becoming the North-East’s largest VW festival. Run by Katy Emmett and her dad Bruce, Mighty Dub Fest has been going for 12 years now. Established in 2010, co-organiser Katy, was just 11 when VW campers first started to flock to Northumberland. Now 24, Katy takes great pride in running this marquee event in the VW fanatic’s calendar. The festival now attracts north of 5000 people who bring camper vans, beetles and more along for the ride. Since 2015, Mighty Dub Fest has made...

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> The Motioncutter 23 system allows Solopress to upgrade standard label production and introduce Custom Shape Stickers as a new product.

- Published: 2022-04-11
- Modified: 2022-08-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/new-laser-cutting-capabilities-from-solopress/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Tags: Stickers & Labels

Expanding the product range and becoming more efficient at producing core products are key goals for most ambitious print companies. We recently put these goals into action with an investment in ‘cutting edge’ technology that ticks all the boxes in one hit. By acquiring the UK’s first Motioncutter 23 system through Konica Minolta, we managed simultaneously to upgrade the way we produce standard Labels, and as a result, introduced Custom Shape Stickers as a new product. The outstanding capabilities of the Motioncutter machine aren’t limited to kiss-cutting Stickers, however, and the acquisition opens up a sea of possibilities for us. A cut above others We installed the new machine in December of last year, and after a period of operator training and equipment testing, the Motioncutter 23 system was up and running earlier this year. The state-of-the-art laser cutter was put through its paces producing our existing range of standard-size Stickers. However, it wasn’t long before the Motioncutter was being used to produce a newly released product of ours: Custom Shape Stickers. Small businesses, big benefit This new capability for custom shape print products is great news for customers of all sizes, but the Motioncutter is especially economical for short runs. That makes it ideal for small businesses, as well as resellers serving that market. In recent years, there has been an undeniable spike in new small businesses that lean heavily on a very personal and unique branding approach. This has been particularly evident in the area of food and...

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> We'll teach you how to create a clear, engaging, and professionally designed Flyer or Leaflet on Adobe Illustrator.

- Published: 2022-04-08
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-flyers-leaflets-in-illustrator/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets, Illustrator

Flyers and Leaflets are an inexpensive and efficient way to market a business, a cause or an event. A simple way of adding some text and images to some paper and transporting your message straight to your most treasured customers. Industry tips Flyers and Leaflets are not as straightforward as they look, despite their popularity. By listening and learning from the tips in this video, you'll be able to create a clear, engaging, and professionally designed piece of marketing material on Adobe Illustrator, that will help you achieve your goals. Designing with Adobe Illustrator Part 2 of our short tutorial series dives into many of the design fundamentals specific to Adobe Illustrator when creating your professionally printed Leaflet or Flyer. Designer Matt Bruty takes you through: Setting up a design template ready for print Putting in all the elements Illustrator shortcuts Making images transparent Picking and adding colours suitable for print Using the mask facility Choosing the right font How to use space effectively Professional finishing touches More of a Photoshop fanatic? Photoshop fans might wish to skip straight to part three, where we get stuck into How to design Flyers & Leaflets in Photoshop. Equally, if you’re looking for a broader tutorial on how to design Flyers or Leaflets on Adobe, part one of our series. How to design Flyers and Leaflets is the perfect place to start. Check out our support guides for further help - https://www. solopress. com/support-guides/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and check out our...

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> Let our talented graphic designer Matt Bruty let you in on his professional pointers for designing for Flyers & Leaflets in Photoshop.

- Published: 2022-04-08
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-flyers-leaflets-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets, Photoshop

Flyers and Leaflets may seem simple. However, the complexity of designing a strong and marketable handout is often under-estimated. Handing your message to your most valued audiences has never been more achievable – or cost-effective. Industry tips Our talented designer Matt will let you in on his professional pointers for designing for print in Photoshop. Follow his top tips and you'll learn all you need to know to design your very own printed masterpiece. Designing with Adobe Photoshop Part 3 of our tutorial series explores many of the design fundamentals specific to Adobe Photoshop that come into play when you're planning your professionally printed Leaflet or Flyer. Designer Matt Bruty takes you through: Setting up your design template Adding your guides Putting in all the elements Photoshop shortcuts Positioning your images Adapting colours and fonts specific to print Professional fine-tuning https://youtu. be/prG-OpkJ9Xk More of an Illustrator innovator? For fans of Adobe's vector graphics app, part two of this series entitled How to design Flyers & Leaflets in Illustrator will help you take the next steps. Equally, if you’re looking for a broader tutorial on how to design Flyers or Leaflets on Adobe, part one of our series. How to design Flyers and Leaflets is the perfect place to start. Click here for the Support Guides mentioned at the start of the video. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and check out our previous video tutorials to explore and help you with your design endeavours. Video transcription This video is one of...

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> Learn about the many tips, tricks and shortcuts in Photoshop that let you tailor the way the Crop function can work for you.

- Published: 2022-04-08
- Modified: 2022-08-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-crop-images-and-layers-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Cropping images and layers sounds simple on the surface. However, there are plenty of tips, tricks and shortcuts in Photoshop that let you tailor the way the Crop function can work for you. Industry tips Designer Oscar Jackson shows you several quick fixes that can make your cropping have that professional finish. In this video Oscar will take you through: How to use the crop tool Re-scaling your crop Free scaling your crop Hiding the outside of your crop Flipping your crop vertically Overlay options Reversing crop mistakes Dragging your crop Straightening your image Changing the size of your document Saving the document layer to add other images https://youtu. be/bv77YG7TuLA Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and check out our previous video tutorials to explore and help you with your design endeavours. Video transcription So, I've opened up my image in Photoshop. I'm going to select my layer. And if you press the letter C on your keyboard, it'll select the crop tool. Now, I'll show you how to rescale your crop to begin with. So, you drag from the corner, and hold shift. It looks, the aspect ratio of the crop, like this. Now, let's head back to the original size, and if you hold shift, but hold option, or alt this time, it drags in the centre the like this, but it also looks like the aspect ratio, but that's, that's quite useful. You can also free scale, just by, just not holding anything on the keyboard, and just...

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> Ancoats Guitars recently returned from the North East Guitar Show, where they debuted their newly printed display materials from Solopress.

- Published: 2022-03-28
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-at-the-north-east-guitar-show/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

When we last visited Ancoats Guitars in our Start-Up Stories blog, preparations were well underway for the North East Guitar Show. With the show all done and dusted, we caught up with Dave Roberts to see how he got on at Ancoats Guitars first ever trade event. Ancoats Guitars is a manufacturer of hand-built, high-end electric guitars based in Manchester. Solopress has been following their progress through 2022 and reporting on the role that print is playing in establishing this new brand. Now that Ancoats Guitars main man Dave Roberts has returned from the North East Guitar Show, we were keen to hear how he got with his brand new printed display materials from Solopress. A standout stand On arrival at the show, Dave set out his stall using all the elements that we created together and discussed in our previous Ancoats Guitars blog. It was immediately clear to Dave that his materials were a cut above many other exhibitors. “I could tell I was getting plenty of admiring glances from the other stallholders. The Roller Banner created the perfect backdrop to the guitars, and I was the only exhibitor there with a printed tablecloth” All exhibitors had a trestle table, so it’s a significant area of unused space that can be used to help hammer home the brand. They’re also handy to conceal the tables themselves, as there’s no guarantee that they will be in a presentable condition. Top tip: Get some professionally produced display materials for an instant...

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> In our latest Start-Up Stories blog, we follow exciting new guitar builder, Ancoats Guitars as they prepare for The North East Guitar Show.

- Published: 2022-03-18
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-prepares-for-the-north-east-guitar-show/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

Fun, lively and loud, guitars shows are a great chance for guitar nerds to discuss tone capacitor values and fretboard radii without fear of blank stares or ridicule. More importantly, they allow players, retailers and influencers to see instruments up close and personal. An event like the North East Guitar Show represents a fantastic opportunity to see, hear, feel and compare all kinds of guitar gear in real life. Now that Covid restrictions have eased, many in the guitar community will be impatient to get out there and attend a show. Naturally, it’s an ideal destination for Ancoats Guitars, the exciting new guitar manufacturer whose first year we’re chronicling in our Start-Up Stories blog series. Ancoats Guitars’ debut show The North East Guitar Show is an ideal event for Ancoats Guitars to make its debut. This Tyne & Wear expo is one of the first shows in the calendar, and the line-up of exhibitors, dealers and performers is sure to draw a healthy crowd of six-string enthusiasts. The event is sponsored by some of the biggest names in the industry including Ernie Ball, Mooer, Wilkinson and Bose, plus live acts and a licensed bar mean it’s sure to be a loud and lively affair. For Ancoats guitars, a regional show like this one is also the perfect warm-up gig for The Guitar Show, the national event where Ancoats Guitars will be exhibiting on the 7th and 8th of May. Getting prepped For Dave Roberts, the craftsman behind Ancoats Guitars, preparation...

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> In the run-up to World Book Day, we spoke to author Matt Wainwright about his experiences writing, publishing and promoting his novel, Out of the Smoke.

- Published: 2022-03-01
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-out-of-the-smoke-by-matt-wainwright/
- Categories: Customer Stories

In the run-up to World Book Day, it’s great to be able to discuss a brand new Paperback Book for teens that Solopress products have helped to promote. The book is called Out of the Smoke, and we spoke to author Matthew Wainwright about his experiences writing, publishing and promoting a new novel in the booming Young Adult category. Origin Story Matt was only a child himself when he started writing, and his ambition was always to become a children’s author. His ambition became more serious, in his early 30s during which time he completed three novels. Excitingly, one of these titles, a sci-fi novel for young adults, got picked up by an independent publisher in the US. At the same time that Matthew and his US publisher were developing his novel, Matt began working with deaf students in secondary schools. Being around teenagers naturally led him to take an interest in the kinds of fiction that might appeal to them: "Being a teenager is a fascinating time - so much is changing, practically every day, and it's a period of our lives when we're deciding what kind of person we're going to be. " Sadly, Matthew’s US-based publisher folded, leaving his young adult sci-fi novel without a home. After making the decision to shelve that particular project, Matt decided to look closer to home – for both subject matter and a publisher. Out of the blue - Out of the Smoke The idea for 'Out of the Smoke' came...

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> With millions looking forward to a cold pint of Guinness on 17th March, we analyse the brand’s top 5 St. Patrick’s Day marketing campaigns.

- Published: 2022-02-28
- Modified: 2022-03-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/cheers-to-that-guinness-most-iconic-st-patricks-day-campaigns/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

The tradition of enjoying Guinness on St Patrick's Day dates back to 1759 and doesn’t look likely to change any time soon. With millions racing to the bar for a cold pint each year on 17th March, Print and Design experts Solopress analyse the brand’s top 5 Paddy’s Day marketing campaigns. A Brand-Building Powerhouse Starting from humble beginnings and quickly becoming irrefutably linked to St Patrick’s Day, Guinness is now recognised as one of the most successful alcohol brands worldwide. Renowned for its creative marketing approach, the company has launched a series of compelling campaigns over the years, each one creating more urgency around getting our hands on that first St Paddy’s Day pint. Boasting a large global footprint, brewed in 49 countries and available in over 150, Guinness has firmly established itself as the go-to beverage for anyone looking to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. In fact, the dry Irish stout is served 819% more often on St Patrick’s Day than any other day of the year, with an average of 13million pints served globally. But what has made their marketing strategies so impactful over the years? According to Mark Sandys, who heads the Beer, Baileys and Smirnoff business unit at Diageo, the brand has an unwavering focus on “power, goodness and communion,” leveraging a variety of digital techniques from TV advertising to social media campaigns to engage in meaningful storytelling that resonates with the target audience. Often uplifting and inspirational in tone, some of Guinness’ most iconic St Patrick’s...

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- Published: 2022-02-20
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars-gears-up-for-print/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs

In our first ‘Start-up Stories’ blog, we introduced Dave Roberts and his brand new company, Ancoats Guitars. We’ve teamed up with Dave so that we can follow him through the challenges and adventures of his first year in business and support the company with top-quality print. In month two, things are getting exciting. On the horizon are media appointments, new product development, fresh stationery, trade shows bookings and more. Before getting carried away, though, Dave had a little more work to do to establish a brand identity and house style for Ancoats Guitars. Refining the logo Ancoats Guitars is a new business, but like most entrepreneurs, Dave had a good idea of what his logo and branding might look from the very outset. As discussed right at the end of our last blog, Dave’s logo was strong, but required some minor, yet essential development before it could fulfil all the roles that are required of it. Through discussions with graphic designer Matt Bruty at Solopress, Dave and Matt were able to refine the logo, as well as adapting it for a range of essential applications. These applications were as diverse as branding the company website at ancoatsguitars. co. uk, representing the company as social media avatars and appearing as decals on the guitars themselves. And of course as well as appearing on small and large format printed materials. A site better With work on the logo iterations complete, there was a strong foundation in place to build a broader brand...

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> Print and Design experts Solopress have investigated the best place to work in the UK within the creative industry.

- Published: 2022-02-08
- Modified: 2022-02-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/location-location-location-the-best-place-in-the-uk-for-creative-workers/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Despite facing two years of demanding circumstances at the hands of the pandemic, many creative businesses throughout the UK have managed to adapt and thrive. With the sector remaining a desirable field for creative workers, we've investigated the best places to work in the UK within the creative industry for those setting their sights on their next exciting career move. Where is the Creative Industry Heading? Although the UK creative industry was faced with a myriad of challenges over the course of the pandemic, experts remain optimistic about the future for creative workers, predicting that the sector will recover from the pandemic faster than the UK economy as a whole by 2025. Additionally, by this time, the industry is expected to grow by 26%, contribute 132. 1 billion to the economy in Gross Value Added and create 300,000 new jobs according to Oxford Economics. Recent findings from UK Parliament also indicate that now could be the time to pursue a future in the creative sector, as the number of jobs has increased by a 34. 5% since 2011. What Kind of Salary Can you Expect with a Creative Role? Average Salary in the UK for a Creative Role by Experience Level Senior £42,768 Intermediate £36,477 Junior £23,931 (Check-a-Salary) According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a creative job role is £36,829 in the UK, indicating that the sector remains lucrative, therefore, employees within the field can look forward to an impressive salary. Current data reveals that the average salary...

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> The Andy’s Man Club story demonstrates the amazing things that can be achieved when people come together to help each another.

- Published: 2022-02-07
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-stories-andys-man-club/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Customer Stories

Solopress first encountered Andy’s Man Club through our shared involvement with Southend United Football Club. When we had the chance to work directly with Darren Smith from Andy’s Man Club, we were keen to learn more about this fast-growing mental health charity that’s got men talking to each other at venues all over the country. The Andy’s Man Club story starts in a sad place, but ultimately demonstrates the amazing things that can be achieved when people come together to help each other. Who is Andy? Andy Roberts was a popular young man from Halifax, described by those who knew him as a sociable, bubbly personality and a doting father. In April 2016, Andy took his own life at the age of just 23. The impact of the tragedy was profoundly shocking to his family and friends, with whom Andy had been discussing future plans right up until the day before he died. In their efforts to piece together what had happened, Andy’s loved ones were struck by the lack of warning signs. It had been a bolt out of the blue for them, but clearly, Andy must have been suffering in silence for some time. They couldn’t help feeling that, if Andy had been able to discuss his feelings, his death might have been prevented. Andy’s Man Club is born Among those Andy left behind were his mum, Elaine Roberts, and his brother-in-law, Luke Ambler. Luke was a prominent professional Rugby League player whose career included spells with Leeds...

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> The results of our UK business survey show companies of all sizes heading into 2022 with an optimistic spring in their step.

- Published: 2022-01-27
- Modified: 2022-02-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/uk-businesses-optimistic-heading-into-2022/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Like many businesses, Solopress heads into 2022 with cautious optimism. We all have a couple of years of pandemic experience under our belts now, and the ground we stand on is beginning to feel a little more solid. With proven plans in place, and an exciting schedule of new strategies and products lined-up, the future is looking a lot more assured. With that in mind, we were curious about how recent events have affected our B2B customers and business partners, and what factors have influenced their plans for 2022. We decided to reach out to them with a survey covering aspects such as recruitment, working practices, marketing and their plans for growth. As well as satisfying our own curiosity, we knew that the data would provide some interesting insights for our business customers. The results were encouraging, with businesses of all sizes heading into 2022 with an optimistic spring in their step. Our fascinating findings also challenged some widespread notions about suppressed recruitment, performance and marketing activity. Here are some noteworthy highlights from the data. Recruitment and working practices It seems popular to claim that recruitment is nigh-on impossible right now. However, while 40% of our respondents are finding recruitment more of a challenge now than before the pandemic, a solid 60% are finding it easier or the same. When we asked about the methods employers are using to entice new recruits, we saw a markedly strong showing for 'flexible working'. Widespread shifts in working practices during the pandemic taught...

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> We explore the role that print has to play in an election, and explain our position when it comes to deciding whether or not to print controversial content.

- Published: 2022-01-21
- Modified: 2022-08-31
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/our-role-in-election-printing-and-the-democratic-process/
- Categories: Solopress News

Solopress have been based in Southend-on-Sea in Essex for over 20 years, and during that time have developed a strong relationship with the local community. With an upcoming by-election in the Southend West constituency, some of our local customers have contacted us to raise their concern about the nature of some election material that they have received having been printed by ourselves. With local elections to follow later in the year, we thought we would take this opportunity to explore the role that print has to play in an election, and explain our position when it comes to deciding whether or not to print controversial content. As a rule, we as a business do not seek to take a political position by censoring or withholding our services from any political party registered with the Electoral Commission. Our role in the process is merely to print any lawful election material as instructed. This principle would apply to our working with any registered party from any position on the political spectrum. We do however seek to identify and discard any material that we feel is breaking the law, and in these instances have previously consulted with Essex Police to obtain their perspective. There are cases in the past when we’ve taken action to halt the production of such material. Spotting these jobs, however, isn’t easy. As an online print company where artwork is submitted through our website with little to no human involvement, it is extremely difficult to monitor the many thousands...

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> This year, we’re following Ancoats Guitars, a new electric guitar brand. We’ll report on the first year in business & share tips on print.

- Published: 2022-01-20
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/entrepreneurs/ancoats-guitars/
- Categories: Entrepreneurs

Print provides an effective toolkit for businesses when they first start out. It helps them tell the world they have arrived, establish their identity and cultivate a sense of professionalism and validity around their brand. For 2022, we decided we wanted to follow a new business to see how print could support their efforts through the early days. We put some feelers out and were delighted when we made contact with Ancoats Guitars, manufacturer of hand-built electric guitars from Manchester. Introducing Ancoats Guitars Ancoats Guitars is the trading name of Dave Roberts, who started tinkering with guitars as a hobby nearly 25 years ago. For the past six years, he’s been building guitars from scratch. Having now gathered the skills, equipment and workspace to produce high-end custom-built instruments, Dave is finally able to put his dream in motion, and his guitars into production. 2022 will be the year when Ancoats Guitars becomes a fully-fledged manufacturing business, and Solopress will be following every step of the way, reporting on the highs and lows of getting a new brand up and running, and passing on plenty of tips on how print can kickstart a new brand. Why Ancoats? Dave has decided to name the company after the area of Manchester where he has his workshop. Ancoats is a former centre for the city’s textile industry which sprang up during the industrial revolution and thrived well into the last century. The area is famous for its imposing red brick mill buildings, though most...

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> Tips on how to create Instagrammable locations and unboxable products that will get your brand valuable exposure on social media

- Published: 2022-01-14
- Modified: 2022-12-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/get-shareable-with-instagrammable-locations-and-unboxable-products/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Print Inspiration

Your social media strategy covers what you put out there online. But should you be including activity in the real world, with a view to getting it shared online? After all, there are things you can do in the actual world that will encourage valuable coverage in the virtual world too. By creating an environment or backdrop that offers a photo opportunity, or providing packaging and materials that create a shareable unboxing moment, you can spread the word about your brand without even logging on yourself! Photo op marketing If we take a trip back to the early 50s, when photography first started to become accessible to the masses, we start to see the very first installations that provide a photo opportunity for tourists. Cut-out board created by photocutouts. co. uk for the Ellen Macarthur Cancer Trust We’re talking about those boards at the seaside where you put your face through a hole while someone takes your picture. According to photocutouts. co. uk, you could argue they were the first piece of photo-op marketing. Nowadays, these boards are seldom seen without a URL, #hashtag or Twitter handle printed at the bottom. You may not be in the market for a saucy seaside cut-out, but the principle is simple and effective: create an irresistible photo opportunity and incorporate an element that allows you to promote your business in some way. Now with wings Photo: Taylor Swift / Instagram Fuelled by Taylor Swift appearing on Instagram in front of a piece by...

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> When you import an image into Illustrator, you'll want it blend into your project. We show you how to remove the existing white background.

- Published: 2022-01-10
- Modified: 2022-01-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-remove-a-white-background-in-illustrator/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Illustrator

Illustrator is an important program within Adobe’s popular Creative Cloud of software. Unlike its popular cousin Photoshop, Illustrator is primarily geared towards work in the vector format. To the vector, the spoils Because vector graphics are defined by a set of co-ordinates, rather than a map of pixels, they’re perfect for scaling up and down in size. Whether they’re large or small, there’ll be no loss of detail or resolution. That means an image created in Illustrator can sit comfortably in the corner of a webpage or printed on a huge billboard without compromising on quality. Background check When you import an image into your Illustrator project, you may want that image to sit on your own background colour, pattern or scene. However, many stock images are supplied on a white background. All that white will have to go if you want to place the item in the context of your choice. 3-in-1 In this video, Solopress Graphic Designer Matt shows you not one, but three methods to free your vector images from their white backgrounds and bring them into your own creative world. Video Tutorial: How to Remove a White Background in Illustrator If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription I just want to show you three quick ways of getting rid of a white background in Illustrator. Now, obviously, I've got a pretty simple shape here so I can just show you quickly. I'm...

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> Learn about how Steven Watts used lockdown to start an amazing fundraising project, and how Solopress are supporting his charitable efforts.

- Published: 2021-10-20
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/a-year-like-no-other-by-steven-watts/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Customer Stories
- Tags: Roller Banners

Steven Watts never set out to become a hit on social media or a published photographer. However, a chain of events triggered by the start of lockdown saw him take on these roles. Already a veteran fundraiser, Steve became a source of inspiration throughout the country through his passion for his Lakeland home and his dedication to raising funds for good causes, including the Tony Hudgell Foundation. Solopress was proud to play a small part when it came to launching Steve’s book, A Year Like No Other. Life by the Lakes A keen fell runner, Steve had decided to move to Grasmere in the Lake District from nearby Troutbeck, where some of the UK’s most dramatic landscapes would continue to be right on his doorstep. And then, two days after the move, the first nationwide lockdown was enforced. With great relief, and with a full appreciation of his magnificent surroundings, Steve set about his new life in Grasmere. But after a couple of days enjoying early morning runs amid the stunning scenery of his new home, Steve began to feel a sense of that he ought to share his experiences with others. “I just thought how lucky we were, and my thoughts went out to all those people living in high-rise flats or care homes – the ill, the infirm, all the single parents. So I thought about bringing the outside in through the lens by taking pictures and uploading them to social media. ” Photo: Rydal Water - Windermere...

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> Our tutorial shows you how to use and personalise the spell check tool in InDesign to help you create flawless publications

- Published: 2021-10-08
- Modified: 2021-10-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-spell-check-in-indesign/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: InDesign

InDesign sits within Adobe’s popular Creative Cloud (formerly ‘Creative Suite’) of software. Professional and amateur designers alike rely heavily on this range of tools to create and manipulate images. As a dedicated desktop publishing programme however, we expect InDesign to be just as practical at handling text as it is with imagery. Correct me if I'm wrong... Spelling and grammar are fundamental to the integrity of your message, and InDesign has got your back. Featuring a spell check within the desktop publisher is especially useful if you’re composing content within the programme, but it’s also a great failsafe when you’re transferring text from a file or email into your design. We’re used to spell checks in word processing, and InDesign’s integrated spell checker is every bit as versatile and sophisticated. Dynamic Spelling means InDesign won’t just highlight problems, but suggest corrections too. InDesign also allows you to set the language, edit the dictionary and customise the look and function of the feature itself. Cool customisation Did you know, you can even allocate different colours to underline different types of spelling and grammar error? Our tutorial shows you how to use and personalise the spell check tool in InDesign, including tips to unlock hidden features that make life easier and help you to produce flawless publications. Video tutorial: How to use Spell Check in InDesign If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription In this video, I'll be...

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> Our guide looks at the origins of QR codes, the ups and down of their story and how to print them to make the most of the opportunities.

- Published: 2021-10-04
- Modified: 2023-03-14
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/theyre-back-a-marketers-guide-to-cracking-the-qr-code/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

A decade ago, QR codes were supposed to be the next big thing in customer engagement. But with some audiences finding them confusing and frustrating, they failed to catch on in the way some marketers had hoped. Thanks to recent events, QR codes have begun to play a much larger role in our lives. This widespread familiarity with the format now presents an opportunity for marketers to revisit these ingenious black and white patterns. In this guide to QR codes, we delve into the origins of these monochrome marvels, take a journey through the ups and downs of their story and discuss the options and opportunities they present. And of course, we’ll look at what you need to know to ensure they appear correctly in print soo you can create a QR code that doesn't have an image problem! Why were QR codes developed? The QR code started life in a world of automotive factories and car building robots. A descendent of the UPC barcode (Universal Product Code or Unique Product Code depending who you ask), QR stands for Quick Response, recognising its ability to yield speedier results than its stripy forebear. They were developed by a company called Denso Wave, then a subsidiary of the Denso Corporation, which in turn was part of the Toyota Group. Denso remains one of the world’s leading manufacturers of automotive parts and industrial robots. The original idea behind the QR code was to aid in the location, identification and tracking of parts throughout...

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> We worked with GB Olympians Association recently, and we were excited to learn about their work celebrating and supporting Olympians.

- Published: 2021-09-23
- Modified: 2024-02-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/gb-olympians-association/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Customer Stories
- Tags: Roller Banners

‘Once an Olympian, Always an Olympian’ – the motto of the GB Olympians Association. The GB Olympians Association is an organization comprised of current and former Olympians. Anyone who’s ever competed for Team GB in a Summer or Winter games is automatically a member. GB Olympians is dedicated to celebrating and supporting its members and spreading the Olympic spirit throughout communities. Solopress was honoured to work with GB Olympians recently, and we were keen to learn more about their work and how print came to play a part in their story. L-R Amanda Lightfoot OLY (Biathlon), Kate Haywood OLY (Swimming, Beijing 2008 & London 2012), Shirley Addison (née Webb) OLY (Athletics, Hammer, Athens 2004), Lou Collins OLY (Athletics, Sprints, Seoul 1988), Aly Dixon OLY (Athletics, Marathon, Rio 2016), Stephanie Proud OLY (Swimming, London 2012). The origins of the GB Olympians Association Rising to represent your country in the Olympic Games is an achievement that deserves lifelong recognition. GB Olympians is a partner organization to Team GB and automatically enrols anyone who’s ever participated in the games under their banner. The idea to form an association for all Olympians across the globe was first introduced at the IOC Centennial Congress in Paris in 1994, and the World Olympians Association (WOA) was formed in Atlanta two years later. The WOA now recognizes 96 separate National Olympians Associations (NOAs) across the world, including the GB Olympians Association (GBOA) here in the UK. GBOA works closely with the WOA as well as the British...

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> Meet the newest member of the Solopress Team: Sally the Chatbot. Sally’s been brought online to give you support when you need it, 24 hours a day.

- Published: 2021-09-06
- Modified: 2021-09-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/meet-sally-the-solopress-chatbot/
- Categories: Solopress News

We’d like to take this opportunity to introduce to you the newest member of the Solopress Team: Sally the Chatbot. Sally’s been brought online to give you support when you need to contact us about your orders. Whenever you have an enquiry about your job, Sally will be ready and waiting 24 hours a day to give you a quote, track your order, amend your address, change delivery dates, upgrade your courier options and more. Say 'Hi! ' to Sally To start a text chat with Sally, all you need to do is click on the Live Chat icon at the bottom right of the page at Solopress. com. As enthusiastic as Sally is, she knows her limits. As soon as she’s aware your enquiry needs the human touch, she’ll put you straight through to a real person. If it’s within office hours, you’ll only ever be a click or two away from speaking to one of our living, breathing team members. Unlike our human colleagues, Sally’s able to speak to many of you at once, cutting down queues and speeding up response times. Even outside office hours, Sally’s always here waiting to greet you, check on your orders and action amends to your jobs. How can Sally help you? Sally's well-equipped to field many of our most frequently received enquiries via the Live Chat function. Currently, she's able to help you: Check, or pause, the progress of your job Track and manage your deliveries Change delivery times and addresses...

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> In this tutorial, Solopress graphic designer Matt shows you around the tools you can use to select a complex shape and create a clipping mask.

- Published: 2021-08-19
- Modified: 2022-01-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-layer-masks-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Print Inspiration, Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop has been around in some form for over 30 years and it's still the most widely used programme for editing photographic files. Whether you're manipulating digital images for use online or in print, Photoshop's constantly evolving array of tools and functions continue to develop new ways to make life easier for designers. Plucking a person or object from one background and pasting them into a whole new scene is fun, impressive and incredibly useful. In this tutorial, Solopress graphic designer Matt shows you around the tools you can use to select a complex shape and create a clipping mask. Video tutorial: How to use Layer Masks in Photoshop If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription I've got this image here where I want to remove this pink background, so I thought I'd take the opportunity to show you how to make Layer Masks in Photoshop. Layer Masks are as simple as, if you've got selection on an image and you click this little icon here, the white rectangle with the black circle inside, you create a mask and you'll see on your Layers window, you've got your original image intact and then this one represents your mask. Anything shown in white is what you can see on the image and anything in black is what you can't see. If you've got that thumbnail selected, you can go to your brush. If I were to...

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> We've introduced upgrades to Solopress.com that make it faster, bigger, safer and easier to use regardless of what device you’re on.

- Published: 2021-08-17
- Modified: 2021-10-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/site-upgrades-make-for-a-faster-bigger-safer-solopress-com/
- Categories: Print Industry News, Solopress News

We're always looking for ways to improve our website, and we’re excited to announce a set of upgrades that make Solopress. com faster, bigger and safer. A lot of hard work has been going on behind the scenes to make sure we’re providing the optimal experience for our customers. Our latest modifications won’t change the way you navigate and interact with the site, but we’re sure you’ll notice the difference when it comes to the enhanced browsing and ordering experience. Listening to feedback We’re always encouraged by the positive responses we get from our customers. Our 23,000-plus 5-star Trustpilot reviews are a huge source of pride. But that also means we have a duty to listen when we hear about areas that require a bit of attention. One piece of feedback we’ve heard from regular customers was about the time it would take to switch between product options. When trying on different options for size, it would take the site some moments to recalculate prices, which you found frustrating. Faster, bigger and safer We listened to those comments, and we’ve responded by implementing a range of upgrades that not only speed up the solopress. com experience, but also make it bigger, safer and easier to use regardless of what device you’re on. There were three areas we really felt we needed to focus on: 1. The need for speed Page loading and option selection was taking longer than we felt acceptable. In response we’ve sped up the process, making for...

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> We're excited to announce that Solopress has become a sponsor and print partner to Southend United Football Club.

- Published: 2021-08-11
- Modified: 2021-08-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-announce-sponsorship-with-southend-united-fc/
- Categories: Solopress News

We're excited to announce that Solopress has become a sponsor and print partner to Southend United Football Club. We'll be sponsoring the North Bank at Southend's Roots Hall ground, and visitors to the ground in the 21/22 season will see the new Solopress hoardings adorning the stand on either side of the scoreboard. In addition, Solopress banners now appear over the players' tunnel, across the press gantry and in front of Solopress’ corporate box. Naturally, we'll design and print the advertising boards ourselves. As official print partners to the club, we'll also offer our services to the club’s other sponsors. A great match! There's a lot that makes sense about the partnership between Solopress and Southend United FC. We're both fond of the colour blue, we're both based in Southend and we were both founded in the 20th century – Southend United in 1906, and Solopress a mere 93 years later in 1999! Solopress has been printing in Southend for over 20 years and our headquarters are less than a mile from Roots Hall itself. There’s a significant band of Shrimpers fans among our workforce, and they’re particularly excited to see Solopress getting behind their team! Working hand in glove It's not the first time Solopress has been involved in football sponsorship, and with Southend United Football Club itself. Back in 2018, we sponsored Southend goalkeeper and England hopeful, Harry Seaden, donating £5,000 towards his development over the course of 10 months. Our support helped to cover Seaden's kit and...

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> Adobe Illustrator is widely used to design and edit vector graphics, we show you how you can manipulate a photographic file or raster image.

- Published: 2021-07-28
- Modified: 2021-07-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-crop-an-image-in-illustrator/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is widely used to design and edit vector graphics, but it’s not uncommon for designers to come across the need to manipulate a photographic file or raster image within Illustrator. Cropping an image to size is an essential skill when incorporating it into your Illustrator project. In this latest tutorial, our resident design expert Matt shows you a couple of methods for trimming your image to perfection. Video tutorial: How to crop an image in Illustrator If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription There are two ways of cropping an image in Illustrator. There's a professional way and a less professional way, I'd say. The less professional way The less professional way is if you select an image that you've placed, you get an option up here for “Crop Image”. If this bar is not showing for you, you can go to “Object” and down to “Crop Image” this way. You get a warning there that's telling you, it's going to embed that image into your Illustrator file. So, that's an important point. So, I'm going to “OK” that. And I'm going to just crop this as if you were cropping an image in Photoshop. You get the handles, just pull it into where you want it. And then just click “Return”. And you've made your commitment there. And you can see, just shown by this icon here, that it's now an embedded link....

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> Solopress has partnered with Two Sides, a not for profit, initiative promoting sustainability throughout the print supply chain.

- Published: 2021-06-18
- Modified: 2023-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/two-sides/
- Categories: Eco Friendly, Print Industry News, Solopress News

When it comes to the environment, digital is good and paper is bad, right? Not necessarily! Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths around the world of print, paper and paper packaging. Sometimes it’s thought that printing means deforestation. Or that digital alternatives produce no harmful effects whatsoever. In reality, the picture is nowhere near so simple. In fact there’s compelling evidence demonstrating that the opposite is true... Redressing the balance In 2008, a group of professionals from the graphic communications supply chain got together create a forum that would not only promote environmental practices, but also provide a voice to tell the true story of how far the industry has come in reducing its impact on the environment. The result was Two Sides, a not-for-profit group that’s able to investigate, educate and communicate when it comes to the ecological issues surrounding paper and print. Through its research and public relations work, Two Sides has been able to tell a very different story about environmental responsibility in the graphic communications industry, from forestry right through to delivery. Two Sides to the story... One worrying myth about paper production is that it’s a major cause of deforestation and that European woodland is being destroyed as a result. In fact, according to Two Sides, European forests grew by an area equivalent to 1,500 football pitches every day between 2005 and 2020! Another misconception is that paper production produces a large carbon footprint. In truth, the industry is one of the lowest emitters...

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> Learn how to add page numbers in InDesign effortlessly with our step-by-step video tutorial. Master the process of inserting page numbers and navigate your documents with ease.

- Published: 2021-06-08
- Modified: 2023-11-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-page-numbers-in-indesign/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: InDesign

InDesign is the go-to graphic design software when it comes to creating multi-page publications. And where there are multiple pages, page numbers always come in handy. Adding page numbers to your InDesign documents is essential for easy navigation and professional presentation. In this comprehensive guide, we'll teach you how to add page numbers in InDesign for various document types. Follow our step-by-step instructions to master the process and create well-organized documents with ease. Step 1: Create a Master Page for InDesign Page Numbers Before you add page numbers in InDesign, you'll need to create a master page. Master pages are templates that allow you to apply consistent formatting across multiple pages in your document. This step is crucial for creating a unified appearance when you insert page numbers in InDesign. 1. 1 Open the Pages Panel First, open the Pages panel by navigating to "Window" > "Pages" in the top menu. This panel displays your document's pages, as well as any master pages you've created. 1. 2 Create a New Master Page To create a new master page, click on the "New Master" button located at the bottom of the Pages panel. Name your master page, and click "OK. " Step 2: Add Page Numbers in InDesign Using the Master Page Now that you've created a master page, it's time to insert page numbers in InDesign. We'll use the master page to apply consistent page numbering across your entire document. 2. 1 Add a Text Frame Select the Type Tool...

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> Solopress has introduced innovative new sticker materials that can cope with challenging environments when it comes to moisture & temperature.

- Published: 2021-05-07
- Modified: 2021-05-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/sticker-types/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Stickers & Labels

Solopress has introduced innovative new sticker materials that can cope with challenging environments when it comes to moisture and temperature. Previously, we’ve offered permanent white gloss paper stickers on sheets, as well as individual gloss crackback stickers. These are versatile and durable labels, but the new materials that we’ve introduced open up a whole new world of labelling opportunities. New materials, new uses These new materials are particularly good news for anyone that runs a food and drink brand – and that includes frozen foods. These tough new materials are equally at home labelling cosmetics and cleaning products, plus Solopress is now able to produce transparent stickers for the first time! Our new sticker options are fantastic when you want to spread the word on windows, jars, bottles and heaps more. If you don’t want them to stick around forever, we’ve even got non-permanent versions that are easy to peal once they’ve lost they’re done their job – perfect for sealing packaging or for labels that will be removed from the product by the end user. In addition to this great range of materials from our classic range, our Green Range features Vegan Stickers that have already become a hit among brands with an ethical focus. Sticker Materials – the details When you shop for stickers on sheets, the first decision to make is whether to go for Circle, Rectangle, or Square Stickers. Once you’ve reached the product page for your Sticker shape, you’ll find a drop-down menu asking you...

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> Our tutorial video shows you how to create cool composite images by using a Clipping Mask to control the visibility of the superimposed layer

- Published: 2021-04-05
- Modified: 2021-04-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-clipping-mask-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Often when designing, you’ll want to superimpose an image onto a background. In Photoshop, we can do this by clipping an image onto the layer below. But what if we want the background image to define the shape and crop of the image that’s placed on top? Our tutorial video will show you how a Clipping Mask can take a feature from your background layer to control the visibility of the layer you wish to clip on top. Once you’ve got the hang of how to use them, Clipping Masks will save you a lot of time when creating cool composite images. Merge into the background Clipping Masks make life a good deal simpler when you want to create boundaries that constrain images within certain shapes. You can even use features from the background image to set as a frame to crop the superimposed image into shape, as you’ll see in our video when we take an image of someone surfing and make it appear on a television screen in the background. Create boundaries When editing your superimposed image, a Clipping Mask is also a useful way to create boundaries, allowing you to work on this area and this area only. You’ll be able to smudge, filter and scribble away without ever going over the lines. Stacked in your favour You might find that the image that you’ve clipped to the layer below could benefit from certain treatments to help it sit nicely on the background. In the tutorial, we...

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> We asked you what makes the perfect Election Leaflet. Our survey results provide unmissable insight for anyone hoping to bring voters onside

- Published: 2021-03-26
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-perfect-election-leaflet/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Election Leaflets are a big part of any political campaign — we should know, we've printed one or two in our time. But what makes some campaigns more effective than others?  We were intrigued to hear people's opinions on the issue, so we carried out a survey of 878 voters to discover what they really think when they receive an election leaflet. Here are our findings... Political headlines The first set of questions our survey asked was to do with the headline. What kind of message do people prefer to see on the front of an election leaflet? 1. Which type of headline would you prefer to see on the front of an election leaflet? A party slogan, a specific policy or a quote from the candidate? We discovered that our respondents in the majority prefer to see a headline that’s sharply focused on a specific policy area rather than a more general statement of intent. 56% of respondents said they would prefer to see a specific headline. 25% preferred a party slogan and only 19% wanted to see a quote from the candidate. This is at odds with the prevailing trend we see for more generalised headlines, such as ‘Strong and stable leadership in the national interest’ (Conservative, 2017). Maybe the big parties should shift towards more specific headlines? 2. What should the headline message on the front of an election leaflet focus on? One main issue, or several issues? If you do choose to lead with a policy-driven headline,...

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> We spoke to Kev Rook from Nodding Dog Comedy about running an events company, promoting comedy through print, and all that funny business...

- Published: 2021-03-23
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/nodding-dog-comedy/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Nodding Dog Comedy is a promoter of live stand-up shows and events in the North West of England. Officially it has been up and running as a business for just two years, but Nodding Dog Comedy has been around in one form or another for around 15 years, since founder Kev Rook was on the stand-up comedy circuit himself. After Kev was given the opportunity to promote a couple of shows locally, he realised there was a gap in the market for a specialist comedy promoter. He made the decision at that point to dedicate himself full time to transforming Nodding Dog Comedy into a bona fide live comedy events company operating throughout Manchester, Cheshire, Lancashire & Cumbria. A rare breed Not one to take the conventional route, Kev decided he wanted to do things a little bit differently. As you’d expect, Nodding Dog Comedy works with venues to stage one-off comedy nights, regular clubs, corporate events, and even comedy festivals. Where Nodding Dog Comedy put’s its own playful paw-print on proceedings is in the formats of the nights they run. Many of their regular shows are built around off-beat and experimental themes. A new variety night they’re launching in a gin bar will feature a live jazz band that gets involved with the acts as the show goes on. Another of their regular nights prohibits acts from performing their usual genre of comedy, producing rare, one-off performances from the comedians involved! Another point of difference for Nodding Dog is...

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> In this video tutorial, we'll show you how to use the Pen Tool in Adobe Illustrator, from the basic functions to the more complex features.

- Published: 2021-02-24
- Modified: 2021-04-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-pen-tool-in-illustrator/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is the world’s favourite tool for creating vector graphics, logos and illustrations. The pen tool is one of the programme’s most fundamental and versatile features. Our video tutorial peeks behind the basic functions to reveal the unexpected ways the Pen Tool can help you achieve precise lines and shapes. Even seasoned illustrators may find there are more shortcuts to learn and hacks to master... Straight to the point We start by linking anchors points together to create basic polygonal shapes. Each point can be moved and manipulated using the pen tool, either one at a time or in groups. Ahead of the curve The video goes on to explain how the pen tool can be used to create curved lines and shapes. You’ll learn to customise your curves in no time, as we show you how to adjust your anchors, angle your handles and twang your rubber bands. If that all sounds a bit baffling, don’t worry! All those twists and turns get straightened out in our informative video. There’s even a tasty treat at the end... Video tutorial: How use the Pen Tool in Illustrator If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: If your illustration turns out to be print-worthy, Solopress offers great prices and free UK delivery. Video Transcription How to use the Pen Tool in Illustrator Hi, welcome to another Solopress tutorial. For this one, we're going to look at how to use...

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> In our Green Screen buyers' guide, we give you all of the important information you need to ensure you purchase the right screen for your needs.

- Published: 2021-02-18
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/green-screen-buyers-guide/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

There are all kinds of practical and creative uses for Green Screens. Outside of the movies, virtually anyone with a digital camera and the right software can use a Green Screen to place themselves against a virtual custom background. You can use the technique to transport yourself to a dream location, but you can also use it to display relevant imagery or info. Alternatively, you may wish to conceal a sensitive, uninspiring — or just downright messy — real-life location. We covered some of the basic facts in our blog ‘5 things you should know about Green Screens’, but we also wanted to put together a buyer’s guide to help you make sure you get the right size screen. If you’re taking your first steps in the world of Green Screens, or updating your existing set-up, there are a few important things to consider when deciding which size to buy. Big enough to fill the screen? Or cover your movements? The first thing to consider when determining what size screen to buy is what does it need to cover? If you’re using your Green Screen for conferencing, webcasting or vlogging, you may not even need it to fill the entire screen. Virtual backgrounds in apps like Microsoft Teams and Zoom are both fun and useful. Unfortunately, they’re also pretty glitchy when it comes to cropping you out of your real-life background and pasting you onto a virtual one. Anyone who’s used one of these backgrounds will know what it’s like...

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> When Becky Alexander, Area Manager with The Body Shop at Home, got in touch to praise us for our affordable prices and high-quality print, we were keen to know more about her experiences.

- Published: 2021-02-09
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/becky-alexander-the-body-shop-at-home/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Business Stationery, Flyers & Leaflets

When Becky Alexander, Area Manager with The Body Shop at Home, got in touch to praise us for our affordable prices and high-quality print, we were keen to know more about her experiences. We got in touch with Becky to find out what it’s like to be involved with the world’s best-loved ethical cosmetics brand, and how marketing through print has helped to propel the business. A new leaf In July 2019, Becky Alexander was looking to find a new hobby, but also an opportunity to earn an income. Most importantly, Becky’s new project would have to fit around her 3-month-old son. While researching the possibilities, she came across The Body Shop at Home and immediately knew it would be a great fit for her lifestyle and passions. “I’ve always loved The Body Shop products so to join and sell the products that I loved was a no-brainer! ” So what’s the Body Shop when it’s at home? The Body Shop has occupied a special place in the cosmetics industry, on the high street and in the nation’s hearts as one of the true British “Superbrands” of recent decades. This strong brand identity is based on an ethical stance that was many years ahead of its time. The brand was the first to campaign against animal testing, and to support community trade, always seeking to import resources from poorer countries, ensuring funds paid for ingredients were channelled directly towards helping workers to receive a fair wage. Ideas that we now...

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> In a departure from tradition, the Pantone Institute have selected not one, but two colours of the year for 2021.

- Published: 2021-01-11
- Modified: 2021-01-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/the-pantone-colours-of-the-year-2021/
- Categories: Art & Design

In a departure from tradition, this year the Pantone Institute have selected not one, but two colours of the year. The colours selected for 2021 are PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray and PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating. Ultimate Gray is a sober yet calming shade of grey, whereas Illuminating is a gentle but cheerful yellow. Ultimate Gray and Illuminating aren’t ‘joint winners’ exactly. Instead, it is the specific combination of these two shades that Pantone offers up together as a pairing to represent 2021. The only other occasion when Pantone picked two colours was with the combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity in 2016. What is Pantone? Many of us will have encountered the word ‘Pantone’ in association with colour. We may even have come across the pleasing books of colour swatches that bear the Pantone name. Designers of all persuasions will be familiar with the Pantone Matching System® that helps them to ensure colour consistency between inks, paints and materials. Behind this system is a company called the Pantone Color Institute, owned by the Danaher Corporation and headquartered in Carlstadt, New Jersey. The company was founded in the 1950s, and the celebrated Pantone Matching System® was introduced in 1963. It’s been a standard reference among designers, printers and manufacturers ever since. The first-ever colour of the year was Cerulean Blue, which the Institute named for 2000. Throughout the two decades since, whenever Pantone makes its announcement, the design world takes notice. Trendsetting And well it might, because Pantone has an uncanny knack...

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> Essex-based print company Solopress has announced a new range of environmentally-friendly print products called Solopress Green.

- Published: 2021-01-06
- Modified: 2023-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-launches-new-eco-friendly-print-range/
- Categories: Eco Friendly, Solopress News

Solopress has announced a new range of environmentally-friendly print products called Solopress Green. The new range offers a choice of high-quality products, printed on recycled paper stocks. What’s more, all carbon emissions are offset through investment in climate protection projects. With options including Business Cards, Flyers & Leaflets, Postcards, Greetings Cards, and Stickers, and with more products earmarked for the future, customers can create an impressive suite of eco-friendly stationery and promotional print. Solopress Green uses 100% recycled paper stocks, but just because they are 'green', it doesn't mean they're any less white! Modern de-inking processes and production methods produce recycled paper stocks that are bright, white, opaque, and smooth — often more so than paper made from virgin fibre. In addition to responsibly sourced materials, the production and printing processes that go into the Solopress Green range are 'carbon neutral'. With the help of international environmental consultant ClimatePartner, the carbon emissions resulting from manufacture and print are calculated and an equivalent contribution is made to projects in both Europe and the Amazon that reduce carbon pollution. Through working with ClimatePartner, Solopress ensure its emissions are accurately calculated, that contributions are never double-counted and that the entirety of their carbon footprint is offset. According to Solopress MD Simon Cooper: "Solopress is already committed to sustainable print production, with a proud history of responsible procurement. Recycled stocks have long been part of our offering, and Solopress was one of the first UK printers to adopt environmentally-friendly, vegetable-based inks. "This new range,...

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> We learn more about Stepping Stone Theatre For Mental Health who won 500 printed Calendars & 5,000 Christmas Cards in our competition.

- Published: 2020-12-14
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/stepping-stone-theatre-for-mental-health/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Customer Stories
- Tags: Christmas Cards

Back in October, Solopress launched The Charity Print Prize Draw. Registered UK Charities were invited to enter a competition to win free printing on 500 Calendars and 5,000 Christmas Cards. After a fantastic response, the draw took place, and it was an organisation known as the Stepping Stone Theatre For Mental Health that had the luck of the draw. However, it turned out we were the lucky ones when we got the opportunity to get to know Bill Rodgers from Stepping Stone and learn all about his inspiring group of performers and service users. First steps The Stepping Stone Theatre for Mental Health started life seven years ago and celebrates six years as a registered charity in June. It was founded by Bill and his partner Kate Hull-Rodgers after they spotted what Bill describes as a “gap in the market” in terms of mental health provision in their hometown of Gainsborough, Lincolnshire. They felt that people suffering from mental health issues would benefit from sharing their experiences with one another away from a clinical setting. To that end, they embarked on applying their talent and experience to set up a theatre group. Luckily, their talent and experience are considerable! Setting the scene Bill had spent many years acting, directing, and writing for the theatre, while Kate is a renowned actor, writer, and performer who’s also an internationally recognised speaker on bipolar disorder. Kate’s personal history as a sufferer has given her a wealth of experience around issues such as hospitalisation...

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> Many brands break the apostrophe rules, but you don’t need to be one of them. Discover how and when to use an apostrophe in your marketing with this guide.

- Published: 2020-12-09
- Modified: 2021-01-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/apostrophe-rules-anything-goes/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

Misusing apostrophes is one of the most common grammar mistakes marketers can make. And there has been no shortage of brands being called out because of it. Waterstones use to be called Waterstone’s until they dropped the apostrophe in 2012 for online use. While Starbucks have never used an apostrophe in their branding whatsoever. So, is it high time all brands drop the apostrophe? We take a look at the correct use of an apostrophe, why they’re used, and whether or not they still matter in a digital sphere. What’s in this article? When to use an apostrophe Why do we use apostrophes? Apostrophe examples Do apostrophes still matter? When to use an apostrophe Apostrophes are a type of punctuation, typically used towards the end of a word. They usually show: Where letters have been left out Possession of an object Controversially, plural forms of certain words, numbers or symbols Apostrophes should always appear as part of a word, and never on their own. What are the three uses of an apostrophe? An apostrophe has three uses, or placements, in a word. Contractions Contractions are used to combine two short words into one, such as ‘it is’ becoming ‘it’s’, or ‘they would’ as ‘they’d’. You usually knock one or two letters off the front of the second word, then combine the two words with an apostrophe – for instance, ‘we will ‘to ‘we’ll’. However, in some cases, the apostrophe can appear within the second word, such as ‘has not’ becoming...

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> Rosemary and Time is a social enterprise that supports people living with dementia through horticultural workshops and seed growing kits.

- Published: 2020-12-02
- Modified: 2020-12-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/rosemary-and-time/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

Rosemary and Time CIC was set up by Donna Rowe-Green in 2018 and started operating in spring of 2019. Donna had been working as a horticultural therapist alongside people living with dementia as part of a different project she had been running. Having previously established another social enterprise that ran for 6 years, she felt there was a lot more work to be done to bring the benefits of gardening to that group. “I like social enterprise as it has that wonderful balance of supporting people while trying to earn income to deliver that service at the same time. I was blessed to study at the School of Social Entrepreneurs in Liverpool and learned a huge amount from them and my peers on the course. ” Donna Rowe-Green Wonderful workshops Pre-Covid, Donna would take gardening materials into care homes, dementia cafés, day centres, and other social groups. She would deliver a friendly, relaxed workshop where groups of older people could make up a hanging basket, a pot of herbs, or a bird feeder and take home what they’d created. It provided a great chance for the carers that supported the people living with dementia to get stuck in alongside their loved one and become a husband, wife, daughter or son again, rather than a carer. Coping with Covid The pandemic has forced Donna to think laterally in terms of finding alternatives to face-to-face activities. So, with the help of Solopress, Donna produced a gardening reminiscence pack with a scrapbook and...

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> Lorem Ipsum copy has been used as placeholder text in design for generations. Discover what Lorem Ipsum means and how it’s used in print and digital.

- Published: 2020-11-02
- Modified: 2023-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/what-is-lorem-ipsum-and-why-is-it-used/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

Lorem Ipsum is a piece of text, used by designers to fill a space where the content will eventually sit. It helps show how text will look once a piece of content is finished, during the planning phase. Filler text has been widely used for centuries, so most people are familiar with seeing Lorem Ipsum text on a mock design. This means, when a designer sends their template to a client, they won’t get distracted by the copy on-page. Read on to find out what Lorem Ipsum means, why we use it, and how to start creating Lorem Ipsum copy in your design. What is Lorem Ipsum? Lorem Ipsum, sometimes referred to as ‘lipsum’, is the placeholder text used in design when creating content. It helps designers plan out where the content will sit, without needing to wait for the content to be written and approved. It originally comes from a Latin text, but to today’s reader, it’s seen as gibberish. This is the clever bit, as it helps show what on-page text will look like – without distracting from the main focus, the overall design. Where is Lorem Ipsum used? Traditionally, Lorem Ipsum text was used for specimen papers in the print industry. Then, as the industry developed, the text began to show up in transfer sheets and on word processors. Today, the text can be used for any copy, both print and digital. This could include: Letter headings Product descriptions Brand bios Contact details Web pages Calls to...

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> Learn about what DPI is, what it stands for, and the difference between DPI and PPI by reading our easy-to-follow blog post.

- Published: 2020-10-09
- Modified: 2022-04-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/what-is-dpi/
- Categories: Art & Design

The concept of DPI is a relatively simple one in the worlds of design and print, but it gets confusing quickly once we start diving into the details. And DPI is all about the details! Essentially, DPI is a measurement that's used to evaluate the level of detail that can be reproduced by a printer. The higher the DPI, the more information can be captured in print. A high DPI means the resulting print should have a higher resolution, appearing sharper and more detailed. That isn't the whole story though. The quality of the image that emerges from the printer is a result of much more than the printer’s DPI rating. Add to that the fact that DPI is often mistaken to mean “dots per square inch”, or “pixels per inch”, and it is clear we have some explaining to do. Let us start at the beginning. What does DPI stand for? DPI stands for “Dots Per Inch” and is used as a measure of the level of detail reproduced in an image or by a printer. The term “dots” refers to the dots of ink applied by a print device. Dots per inch refers to a measure of how many of those ink dots are applied along an inch-long line of the printed material, also known as ‘dot density’. It gives a good indication or the sharpness of detail that can be achieved by that print device. What is DPCM? DPI stands for “Dots Per Centimetre”. As you might...

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> We're offering 6 great tips for the optimum “call to action” — or CTA — the tool that inspires your target audience to act.

- Published: 2020-09-25
- Modified: 2023-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/how-to-construct-a-call-to-action/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

A lot of hard work and investment goes into digital marketing activity, so businesses need to be able to see returns. That means getting customers over the line by inspiring them to act. But for digital advertisers, that challenge is only getting tougher. Busy, cynical audiences are now vastly more likely to ignore a button than they are to click on it. Everyone is hustling for their attention and they’re wise to evil scammers, hardworking marketers — and everyone in between. Modern audiences require something rather more sophisticated than “Click here” to prompt them to take action. That’s why we’ve brought together 7 handy tips to help you create a call to action button that’s engaging enough to stand out from the crowd and inspire your audience to act. Decide what YOU need... ... Then write for what THEY need Be realistic about what you can achieve Be human, and appeal to human nature Be aware of Size. Shape. Colour. Position Put it to the A/B test! But before we get into details about putting these tips into action... What is a call to action? In the world of digital marketing, a “call to action” — or CTA — usually means a perfectly positioned button featuring a few carefully chosen words that will stimulate your target audience to act. Digital marketers are ceaselessly creating PPC ads, online campaigns, landing pages, and marketing emails. Why? Because they want their audiences to do something. That’s when you need them to follow your...

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> Stargazy Cosmic Caramel is new a rum liqueur from Cornwall that’s gathering a huge following with the help of Gold Foil print from Solopress.

- Published: 2020-09-22
- Modified: 2022-11-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/stargazy-rum-liqueur/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Business Cards

When Solopress introduced Gold Foil printing last year, along with Rose Gold, Silver Foil and Spot UV, it immediately struck a chord with businesses that already had a bit of sparkle in their branding. One of those brands was Stargazy, a rum liqueur from Cornwall that’s currently gathering a huge following. Launched in July 2019, Stargazy ‘Cosmic Caramel’ is a liqueur made from aged rum, flavoured with caramel, Cornish sea salt and hints of gorse flower and coconut. While partnering with Stargazy to print their distinctive materials, we were blown away by their sophisticated yet playful branding. We were intrigued to find out more, so we spoke to Stargazy’s Alison Dunne about the origins of the product, and the business itself. The Rum & Crab Shack It turns out Stargazy is the product of a 25-year friendship between Alison, her partner Luke and their friends Sarah and Neyth. The business is centred around The Rum & Crab Shack in St Ives, which Sarah and Neyth run. Both venue and menu were inspired by Eastern Seaboard eateries in the US, combining a convivial atmosphere with fresh local seafood. Stargazy’s not the first original beverage to originate from The Rum & Crab Shack. The friends had previously collaborated to bring to market a spiced rum called Dead Man’s Fingers, for which Solopress also handled print. Its success saw it grow from house rum at the Rum & Crab Shack to becoming one of the Halewood family of wines and spirits in 2018....

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> Grab the attention of potential buyers and tenants with a well-designed estate agent sign. Discover the rules and regulations your board must follow here.

- Published: 2020-09-18
- Modified: 2020-10-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/estate-agent-board-regulations/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Advertising available properties on the market to grab the attention of potential buyers and tenants can be difficult. Well-designed estate agent boards can help. They can showcase which of your properties are available and display your brand colours and logo – to help those interested associate the house with your letting agency. They’re also subject to strict regulations, however. Our guide will help you find out more about these rules and how they can affect your estate agent sign design. What are estate agent boards? Estate agent boards are corrugated plastic signs that are displayed outside a property that is for rent or sale. They are normally posted and tied to railings or property walls with the intention of advertising to passers-by that a property is on the market. These signs usually contain lettering such as ‘For Sale’, ‘To Let’, ‘Sold’, alongside the estate agent’s name, logo, and brand colours. They’re a great way for estate agents to market available properties in their area. What are the rules for estate agent boards? When designing a sign, you need to be fully aware of the rules and regulations for displaying estate agent boards. These have been outlined in the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007 – find the full legislation here. We’ve collated a few of the most important rules to remember. Boards can only be hung on the property they relate to This seems like a no brainer, but you can only hang up your estate...

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> Rituals & Declarations is a publication printed by Solopress that covers topics spanning folklore, myth and all things gothic.

- Published: 2020-09-10
- Modified: 2020-12-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/rituals-declarations-magazine/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

It’s always satisfying to see the broad range of material that passes through our presses, especially when it’s the work of passionate and creative individuals. In the case of Rituals & Declarations magazine, it was clear we had something curious and unique on our hands. It’s a relatively new publication that features entirely original writing and artwork that covers topics spanning folklore, myth and all things Gothic. Delving into the origins Having played a role in the production of Rituals & Declarations, we were interested to learn more about this beautiful and beguiling magazine and how it came to be established. It turned out, like a lot of important ideas, this one started with a chat between two friends in a pub. Those two friends were the writer David Southwell and the artist Paul Watson, who’d go on to become the editor and publisher of Rituals & Declarations. We got in touch with Paul to find out more about the origins of the magazine. The Weird That night in the pub, David and Paul were bemoaning the lack of an independent publication that served their esoteric interests – namely “weird” fiction and art – and the upshot was Paul’s decision to create Rituals & Declarations. I use the word “weird” advisedly as it’s Paul’s preferred term to encompass the magazine’s subject matter: “Rituals & Declarations is concerned with the Weird - artwork, fiction, and articles. I have a very broad and inclusive definition of the Weird, but Rituals & Declarations...

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> Learn everything you need to know about outdoor marketing products, ideas, designs and regulations in the Solopress ultimate guide to outdoor advertising.

- Published: 2020-08-27
- Modified: 2023-05-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-ultimate-guide-to-outdoor-advertising/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Every time you walk through town, drive to work or pass by a shop, you’ll almost always notice some form of outdoor advertising. It’s not just huge billboards and scaffolding banners you’ll see either. Smaller-scale adverts like signage boards, vinyl banners and printed flags are used every day by businesses to advertise their brand. Outside marketing can be a fantastic way of grabbing the attention of potential customers and reaching the right people. With this guide, you’ll find out more about the different types of advertising materials available and how you can creatively use them to your brand’s benefit. What’s in this article? What is outdoor advertising? Why is outdoor advertising important? What ideas can make my outdoor advertising effective? What are the different outdoor advertising regulations? What outdoor advertising products can I use? What is outdoor advertising? Outdoor advertising is any promotions that are displayed outside and reach possible customers who pass them. They are normally posted on building walls, windows, street furniture, public transport and as standalone advertisements. They are designed to grab the attention of people who pass them and can be used to advertise store promotions, events, business info, like opening hours and new product launches. Notable examples include billboards, stickers, signs, banners and more. Why is outdoor advertising important? Outdoor advertising can be an invaluable weapon in your marketing arsenal. It can help you reach that all-important footfall that passes through town and city centres every day. Placing adverts in places where there’s plenty of...

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> Read about how Solopress has become the first company worldwide to have invested in the new, state-of-the-art T250 digital inkjet press from Hewlett Packard.

- Published: 2020-08-17
- Modified: 2020-08-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/hp-t250/
- Categories: Solopress News

Solopress has invested in a new, state-of-the-art T250 digital inkjet press from Hewlett Packard, with a second machine due to be installed later this year. With the first T250 coming online, Solopress has become the first company worldwide to have this model in operation. We’re always looking out for new technology to help Solopress improve speed, quality and efficiency. Recent advances in digital printing are particularly exciting. Prior to lockdown, Solopress had ambitious plans about how investment in high-speed digital inkjet technology could improve our offering. HP at the cutting edge In particular, Hewlett Packard seemed to be pushing the boundaries of what could be achieved in high-volume digital printing. With the introduction of the T-series, featuring their HDNA (High Definition Nozzle Architecture) printheads, HP had made a significant breakthrough. This new series of HP digital presses can rival offset printing in terms of speed and quality while retaining benefits associated with digital printing such as fast setup and personalisation. Timing is everything It was clear to Solopress MD Simon Cooper that it was a smart time to get on board with this technology. But when Coronavirus came along, we faced a decision as to whether to suspend our plans. Ultimately, we took the bold decision to go ahead. “In the end, we were able to turn this period of suppressed demand to our advantage. We took the opportunity to remove some older equipment and move ahead with the installation of new technologies. ” Simon Cooper, Managing Director, Solopress. The...

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> Do we really know what kinds of paper products we can recycle? The Ultimate Guide to Paper Recycling explains how, what and why we recycle.

- Published: 2020-08-10
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/the-ultimate-guide-to-paper-recycling/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

Paper recycling has become part of our daily routine. It’s strange to think that it wasn’t until 2010 that it became a legal requirement for local authorities to collect at least two types of recyclable material from our kerbs. In the decade since, we’ve all become more eco-aware, but many of us still have gaps in our knowledge. Do we really know how paper recycling works? And exactly what kinds of paper products we can put in our recycling bins? In our ultimate guide to paper recycling, we set out to fill the knowledge gaps and bring a wider understanding of how, what and why we recycle. What’s in this article? How is paper recycled step by step? How to recycle paper What kind of paper can I recycle? Does paper recycling make a difference? Paper recycling and Solopress How is paper recycled step by step? There are several stages involved in taking wastepaper and transforming it into a product that can be used again. Here’s a run-through of the most commonly followed processes: 1. Collection and transportation For domestic paper recycling waste, collection is carried out by local councils in the UK, while business may rely on private firms. The material is then taken to a recycling plant. 2. Sorting On arrival at the recycling plant, the material is sorted into grades. In Europe, the Standard Grades of recovered paper and board are divided into five groups as defined by the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI): Group 1:...

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> Learn everything you need to know about Poster design, ideas, paper types and distribution in the Solopress ultimate guide to Posters.

- Published: 2020-07-27
- Modified: 2022-04-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

Posters are the original printed marketing tool. They’re used to advertise events, products and services, using striking pictures, graphics and text. Some of the most iconic pieces of design within pop culture are found on posters. Obama’s ‘Hope’ design, the US’s ‘We Can Do It! ’ wartime artwork and the Jaws movie poster – to name a few. By combining creative composition with clever wording, you can produce an eye-catching poster for your business. Find out everything you need to know about how to design, produce and distribute your next attention-grabbing poster with our ultimate guide. When you’re ready to go, Poster printing from Solopress offers top-class support, production and delivery to get your campaign started in style. What’s in this article? What is a poster? Why are posters important? How to create an effective poster design What’s the best design software for posters? What poster design ideas could I use? How do I design a poster for an event? How do I make an advertisement poster? What are the different poster layouts and sizes? What paper types can be used for posters? What is the best paper weight for posters? How to distribute posters? What is a poster? A poster is a printed advertisement that is used to promote an event, product or service. It combines text and graphics to ensure it is noticed by lots of people and is usually displayed in a public place. They usually include: A bold headline or slogan. Succinct copy showing key messages....

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> Read about how fledgling salon The Hair Gallery turned to Solopress to produce branded face visors to allow them to reopen their businesses from lockdown.

- Published: 2020-07-23
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/the-hair-gallery/
- Categories: Customer Stories

When lockdown hit, the launch of fledgling salon The Hair Gallery was knocked back — but not out. Undeterred, and with the help of Visors from Solopress, the salon was soon up and running and adjusting to the new normal. Print partners Robyn Moore had already been a Solopress customer for some years before opening The Hair Gallery this year. The young entrepreneur had previously been the proprietor of a local fashion publication called The Shropshire Socialite. Robyn designed and wrote the magazine, using Solopress for print. Robyn’s next venture was to be The Hair Gallery, a luxury boutique hair & beauty salon on the picturesque high street of Much Wenlock, in the heart of Shropshire. It was Robyn’s positive experiences of Solopress that spurred her to use us again in preparation for the launch of her new project. “I’ve always found the printing quality perfect and it’s really easy to upload your pdfs. The speed of delivery is super-fast and beats other online printing companies. ” - Robyn Moore. Unforeseeable circumstances However, during preparations for launch, world events were beginning to transform the high street into a less welcoming place... Sadly, Robyn’s dream of hitting the ground running was not to be. After opening on the 3rd of March, 2020, the salon was open for only 3 weeks before lockdown forced her to close the doors that she’d so recently opened to the public. A difficult and frustrating period followed, as Robyn kept an eye on developments and looked...

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> Read about Solopress have completed a major overhaul of our checkout process following customer feedback, adding new functionality including split deliveries.

- Published: 2020-07-22
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/new-checkout/
- Categories: Solopress News

Solopress are always looking for ways to improve customer experiences and smooth the journey from a great idea to the delivery of fantastic print. With this goal in mind, we’ve just completed a major overhaul of our checkout process. The improvements we’ve focused on are based on customer feedback as well as the desire to accommodate exciting new features. From front to back, we’ve remodelled the system to make it faster, simpler and to implement our brand-new split delivery service. Split deliveries The headline news for many businesses will be the ability to split deliveries online so that they’re sent to multiple addresses. This will be a huge benefit to print resellers, retail and hospitality chains — and to any businesses with a need to distribute their print to several different locations. Imagine Flyers or Leaflets arriving in batches at the home addresses of local deliverers. Menus going straight to each restaurant in your chain without having to be collated and repackaged. Our Customer Service advisers have always been happy organise split deliveries by special arrangement. However, our new checkout solution allows you to complete the process online, with no need to call. Entering multiple addresses is simple and our redesigned checkout screen allows you to see clearly which quantities are headed to each location. Split delivery from Solopress now allows you to: Enter unlimited multiple shipping addresses at checkout Specify quantities for each address Select separate delivery dates for each address. Tell us which addresses require Standard, pre-10. 30am...

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> Ahead of the first MotoGP race of the 2020 season, we take a look at the face masks the teams and riders are wearing to protect against COVID-19.

- Published: 2020-07-18
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/safety-in-style-motogp-face-masks-reviewed/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Face Masks

A fortnight after Formula One made a successful return to racing, their two-wheeled counterparts in MotoGP took to the tarmac once again in Spain. With protection against COVID-19 of paramount importance, the selection of F1 face masks used by the teams showed that precautions could be taken while looking stylish and incorporating their well-established branding. Not wishing to be outdone, the riders and teams of MotoGP have stepped up and have been seen sporting a range of branded face masks at Jerez for the first race of the season. However, the main difference between the two forms of elite motorsport is that the MotoGP face masks seem to be more customised to the branding of the rider, as opposed to the teams as they are in F1. Once again, we decided to take a look at the various face mask designs that were on show. Monster Energy Yamaha Valentino Rossi It’s fair to say that the Doctor’s best days on the track are behind him. At the age of 41, the last of his 9 championships came 11 years ago and he hasn’t crossed the finish line in first place since Assen in 2017. However, despite this comparative lack of success, Rossi is still as popular as ever and has arguably the most recognisable branding in motorsport. Given the bright colours that are normally associated with the Italian and his unique crash helmet and merchandising styles, it’s therefore surprising that his face mask his quite understated. It's all black with...

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> In this video tutorial, we take a look at how you can manipulate text so that it follows a line or shape of our choosing.

- Published: 2020-07-16
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-curve-text-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Text and imagery have always gone hand-in-hand in commercial design. Sometimes, if we want these two elements to work together, it can be effective to manipulate the text so that it follows a graphic element in our imagery. If you’re looking to achieve this kind of effect in Adobe Photoshop, our video tutorial will show you a couple of ways it can be done. Two ways to warp In the video, we first show you how to use the Warped Text Tool to allow text to follow a range of preset curve effects. The second method involves tracking text around a shape that you’ve created yourself in Photoshop. Custom curves This video goes on to explain how this second method can be used to adjust the text to follow even the most complex customised shapes. If you're finished artwork is destined to end up in print, Solopress offers great prices and free UK delivery. Video tutorial: How to Curve Text in Photoshop If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription How to curve text in Photoshop This is a quick two method video on how to curve text in Photoshop. There are two main methods I prefer using when curving text in Photoshop. They’re both very easy to do - the first one I’m going through uses the built-in tool and is great for standalone text. The second one is good for pathing text around objects like...

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> Read about how digital agency WebBox use Solopress to produce high-quality print in order to effectively market themselves and their clients in style.

- Published: 2020-07-09
- Modified: 2020-07-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/webbox/
- Categories: Customer Stories

WebBox is a digital agency based in Cardiff and London. Their expertise in the digital realm is evidenced by the compelling results they achieve for their clients. But there are times when promotional materials need to get physical. That’s when WebBox partners up with Solopress to provide their clients with world-class marketing collateral. Born to brand No strangers to difficult economic times, WebBox launched in 2008 just after the credit crunch. MD Will Roberts started WebBox from a spare room while still studying at Glamorgan University. His determination and focus on outstanding customer service soon led to steady growth, and WebBox now boasts an impressive roster of clients. WebBox’s work has proved transformative for exciting brands including Fever Tree, Simply Gym, Welsh Athletics, Twickenham Stadium, DS Smith, Raleigh International and many more. Consistently effective – online and in print The team of specialists at WebBox helps clients to grow their businesses online through scalable web solutions and powerful digital marketing campaigns. Combining web design, digital marketing and branding, WebBox provides a comprehensive digital marketing service. By adding print to the package, WebBox clients achieve consistent, professional branding that carries across all their comms. One of the reasons that Solopress and WebBox work so well together is our shared values that put the customer at the centre of everything we do. Graham Sanders, Senior Digital Designer, describes the WebBox ethos this way: "The agency started life with a clear vision; we wanted to grow a digital agency that really listened and...

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> Humour in advertising has been around for decades, but does it actually help drive sales? Discover how to use advertising psychology in your next campaign.

- Published: 2020-07-08
- Modified: 2020-07-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/does-humour-in-marketing-drive-sales/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Humour in marketing is like Marmite, people either love it or hate it. Come up with a funny marketing campaign that tickles your audience and you can boost sales and awareness. Miss the mark, and your customers may not be laughing – seeing your sales figures falling as flat as your joke. We’re looking at the psychology of advertising and how humour could be the key to converting your target customers. Plus, we’re throwing in some examples from top brands who hit a home run with their humorous advertisements. Using psychology in advertising Advertising is full of subliminal messages. From what colours are used, to the wording of the advert. That means each element of your marketing strategy creates a response in your audience. This is known as advertising psychology. Psychology is the study of the mind and human nature. While marketing is the act of creating relationships between customers and your products or services. So, it’s only natural the two go hand in hand. What emotions do advertisements appeal to? Marketers often use emotions to create a connection with their audience. If their efforts are successful, this encourages customers to buy into a brand and stay loyal. The six basic emotions advertisers use are: Happiness – this is where humour comes into play. Anything that makes your audience smile, relax and feel good, is classed as happiness. Fear – considered to be the strongest emotion, fear sticks in the mind of your audience. However, it can be tricky to...

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> Ahead of the first Formula One Grand Prix of the 2020 season, we take a look at the face masks the teams are wearing to protect against COVID-19.

- Published: 2020-07-04
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/safety-in-style-formula-one-face-masks-reviewed/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Face Masks

The 2020 Formula 1 season gets underway in Austria on in early-July, although to say that the circumstances were a little unusual is an understatement. There has been little change on the track, with 18 of the 20 drivers being retained from the previous campaign – the only new faces being Nicholas Latifi at Williams and Esteban Ocon who returns at Renault. However, off the track, things could not have been more different to the normal season curtain-raiser that we have come to expect. COVID-19 caused the original opening race in Australia to be cancelled back in March, and it is still having an impact nearly four months on. All scheduled races will be behind closed doors with no spectators in attendance. Over 4,000 tests have been carried out ahead of the first race, all of which have been negative. Social distancing is also being practised and hand sanitiser stations can be seen throughout the pit and paddock areas. However, one change that has been the most noticeable is the face masks that the drivers, pit crews and team principals have been wearing throughout the weekend. While some teams including Alpha Tauri and Haas have opted to keep their masks simple, others have decided to keep things on-brand with some extremely stylish results. Ferrari The mask itself is simple, plain red with a hashtag of #essereFerrari which translate as ‘we are Ferrari’. It may not win any design awards on its own, but when you combine it with the iconic...

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> What does your brand’s colours say about your company? Find out with our guide to the meaning behind colours and how to use colours in advertising.

- Published: 2020-07-03
- Modified: 2020-07-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/colours-in-print-marketing/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing

When designing a printed advertisement, the messaging is often the most important aspect. However, no matter how persuasive it is, that message might be easily overlooked on a plain, white background. That’s where colours can really have an impact. They can draw eyes towards your ad, make customers feel different emotions and encourage them to interact with your brand. We’re diving into basic colour theory in this guide, helping you understand what different colours mean and how to use them effectively in your advertising. Colour theory basics Colour theory is a combination of art and science. It includes rules and guidelines for using colour schemes to achieve impressive visual results. The colour wheel The cornerstone of colour theory is the colour wheel. Fun fact, it was invented by Sir Isaac Newton in the 17th century after making several discoveries related to the colour spectrum. The colour wheel consists of three colour categories: Primary Secondary Tertiary The colours within these categories are then divided into two sections: Warm Cool Warmer tones, such as reds, oranges and yellows are said to invoke energy when viewed by someone. While cooler shades, such as blues and purples, are considered soothing to the eye. Using colours close to one another on the wheel will create what is known as colour harmonies. Whereas those on opposite ends are known as complementary colours and are good for creating contrasts in your design. Primary, secondary and tertiary colours In the standard colour wheel, the colours are divided into...

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> We've rounded up the key points from government's announcement on 23rd June on the latest lockdown relaxation measures, and the impact they will have on UK businesses.

- Published: 2020-06-23
- Modified: 2023-05-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/lockdown-relaxation/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

On Tuesday 23rd June, Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the House of Commons to announce the government’s next steps to relax the coronavirus lockdown. With the virus seemingly in retreat, the focus is now firmly on allowing businesses to reopen safely in order to give the economy a much-needed boost. What was announced? 1. Social distancing reduced to 1m+ The hospitality industry had been warning for some time that the 2m social distancing rule will need to be reduced for many restaurants and pubs to be able to reopen. Similar concerns have also been raised by schools if they are to be able to welcome their full quota of students back in September. The government has responded by reducing the recommended distance down to 1m, provided that people take other precautions such as wearing face masks and using protective screens. The is being referred to as '1-metre plus', and should only apply where people are unable to stay 2 metres apart. In response to this, we have launched a range of 1m Distancing Floor Stickers and 1m Distancing Floor Tape, both of which are available pre-printed with free next day delivery. 1m Social Distancing Floor Sticker 1m Social Distancing Floor Tape 2. Restaurants, bars and pubs to reopen As expected, the hospitality industry will be allowed to open their doors to customers from 4th July onwards. This means that bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes will once again be able to start serving food and drink on their premises, many of...

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> Read about how Cambridge-based art gallery, The Fitzwilliam Museum, are combining greeting cards and face masks to raise funds while their doors are closed.

- Published: 2020-06-09
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/fitzwilliam-museum-update-classic-paintings/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Face Masks, Greeting Cards

Since 1816, the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge has housed some of the finest art that can be seen in the UK. Masterpieces by the likes of Picasso, Monet, Constable are just some of the collection that is on display at the museum in the present day in its Grade I listed building. However, like all museums and art galleries, the Fitzwilliam was forced to close its doors to the public as the country entered lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak. While admission to the museum is usually free, the donations that it receives from its 400,000 annual visitors that helps to keep the gallery open will have dried up. In response to this, the museum has launched a range of greeting cards that are available to purchase on their website, taking five classic pieces of art and adding a twist that will forever be associated with 2020. Paintings by Alfred Stevens, John Everett Millais, Jan van Meyer and Titian have all been updated by having face masks added to the subjects of the painting, adding a satirical edge to these pieces of art that date back hundreds of years. Before and after: La Liseuse by Alfred Stevens, c. 1860. PHOTO: The Fitzwilliam Museum The Fitzwilliam describe the cards as a "sympathetically designed range provides a playful perspective on our current lives through the art we know and love. " The cards are priced at £3. 20 and can be viewed and purchased on their website here: https://www. fitzwilliammuseumshop. co. uk/museum/fitzwilliam-masterpieces-2020/...

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> Following our launch of our range of hand sanitiser stations, we took a look at how you should use sanitising gel to get the full benefit it can provide.

- Published: 2020-06-09
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-use-hand-sanitiser-effectively/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

The message from the outset of the coronavirus was clear - wash your hands. All of a sudden we all became experts on a subject that in truth lots of us didn't know enough about in the first place. Some were following Boris Johnson's advice and singing happy birthday twice at the sink, much to the amusement of anyone in earshot. Others watched videos on how to wash our hands properly, instantly making us realise what a bad job we'd been doing up until this point. The advice was, and still is, that we should wash our hands with soap and water in the first instance. However, when this isn't possible or convenient, this is where hand sanitiser can be an effective alternative. But what do we need to know in order to use hand sanitiser effectively? Following the launch of our range of hand sanitiser stations, we decided to find out. 1. Ensure it contains at least 60% alcohol The use of alcohol to kill germs and dates back to the 14th century when it was used by French physician Guy de Chauliac for military dressings. He recognised what is still understood to this day - that alcohol can be used as an antiseptic. It is recognised that an alcohol by volume (abv) of between 60% and 95% is required in order to kill microorganisms, antibiotic-resistant bacteria and many different types of virus, including coronavirus. Anything under 60% may simply reduce the growth of germs as opposed to killing...

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> Ever wondered how a green screen works, how to use one or even why they are green in the first place? Read our blog to find out these answers and more.

- Published: 2020-05-30
- Modified: 2022-12-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/5-things-about-green-screens/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Roller Banners

Here at Solopress, we have recently introduced a brand-new range of chroma key green screens into our ever-expanding selection of products. Using our high-quality roller banner printing capabilities, we have been able to produce a low-cost green screen that will be a great solution for first-timers and experienced users alike. Now that we’re now able to offer this product, we thought this was as good a time as any to educate ourselves about green screens, and the chroma key technique that is used to make the magic happen. Take a read of our top 5 things you should know about green screens and immerse yourself in this increasingly-popular trend. 1. How does a green screen work? Green screens work thanks to a process called chroma key compositing, or simply chroma keying. The process involves isolating a specific colour which can then be turned transparent. In this instance, the green screen background is isolated using special effects in editing software, allowing the editor to remove the green colour completely. This means that the now transparent area can be replaced by any footage or image that is required. 2. Why are green screens green? Even though similar techniques were being used as far back as the late 19th century, the colour green only really became popular for this usage in the 1970’s. The process can take place using any colour background, as long as it is significantly different from everything else placed in front of it. Blue screens were initially used beginning...

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> Read our guide on how retailers can reopen shops as the coronavirus lockdown is relaxed in the UK, putting the safety of their staff and customers first.

- Published: 2020-05-25
- Modified: 2023-05-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-businesses-can-reopen-during-lockdown/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Face Masks

On the evening of Monday 25th May, prime minister Boris Johnson announced 'non-essential' retailers will be allowed to reopen from Monday 15th June, so long as they adhere to new guidance to protect shoppers and workers. This will have been the announcement that thousands of shops and retailers across England will have been waiting for, although some may be disappointed after initially believing that this move would allow them at the start of the month following an earlier briefing. There will also be an inevitable degree of concern for these businesses as they look to resume trading while keeping staff and customers safe. Reopening will undoubtedly create many challenges that will need careful consideration, which is why we have researched and written this guide to suggest six measures that business owners can take to reopen responsibly. Cleaning It has never been more important for surfaces to be thoroughly cleaned to prevent the spread of germs from one person to another. Door handles, handrails, lift buttons, and anything else which numerous people will touch throughout the course of a day need to be regularly cleaned. The government published some useful information in March on how to clean in non-healthcare settings to prevent the spread of COVID-19 which can be found here. Recommendations include: Wear disposable gloves and aprons during cleaning which should then be double-bagged and stored for 72 hours before being disposed of. Use either a combined detergent disinfectant solution (1000 ppm av. cl. ), or alternatively a household detergent...

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> Following the launch of the #MyMaskMyWay competition, Solopress managing director Simon Cooper talks about how he hopes it can support the design community.

- Published: 2020-05-22
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/face-mask-design-competition/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Tags: Face Masks

Solopress have launched a competition to unearth some fantastic face mask designs, making the best of them available for purchase and giving the designers a cut of the revenue. The #MyMaskMyWay competition invites people to submit their designs for one of our new range of face masks. All you need to do is download the easy-to-use templates, complete your designs and email them to us. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday 3rd June, at which point we'll choose our 30 favourite designs which we will put to a public vote. The top 12 designs will then be produced and put on sale on our website, with 10% of each purchase going to the designer along with an initial prize of £200! On the idea for the competition, Solopress managing director Simon Cooper said: "I wanted us to do something to support the design community who we have worked so closely with over the years. "With the introduction of face coverings into everyday life, I thought this competition was a good opportunity for them to flex their creative muscle and offer the winners a source of additional income. "There's no question that without designers, our business and the print industry doesn't exist. They play a vital role in the print ecosystem and I hope that we continue to look for new ways to help and support them in this uncertain future. "

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> The UK government have recommended that we cover our faces, but which form of face covering should you choose? Read our guide to help with your decision.

- Published: 2020-05-19
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/which-face-coverings-are-right-for-you/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Face Masks

When the government formally recommended that the public wear face coverings on Monday 11th May, the demand for these products experienced a huge spike. This is demonstrated perfectly using Google Trends, the tech giants’ tool for showing the popularity of terms that searches are carrying out on its search engine. In the large, the conversation around face coverings has focussed on fabric face masks that cover the nose and mouth. However, some respected medical professionals and public health experts have come out to suggest that plastic face shields could be a better solution during the coronavirus pandemic. As a company that can offer both products to our business and consumer customers alike, here we take a look at the benefits of each option to help you make the best decision for your requirements. Benefits of Face Masks 1. They are reusable Fabric face masks that the general public are being recommended to purchase are washable, meaning that they can be reused on a daily basis. These are different from the N95 masks that healthcare workers use which are disposable and should not be purchased by the vast majority of the population. The ability to wash and reuse these masks make them a solution which many people can afford to purchase. 2. They are convenient One of the advantages of fabric face masks is that they are small and foldable. This means that they are convenient to store in pockets, drawers, bags, and many other places when not being worn. You...

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> With the Bundesliga returning behind closed doors in May 2020, we look at how Borussia Mönchengladbach have used print to help fill their stadium with fans.

- Published: 2020-05-16
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printed-football-fans/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

The Bundesliga, the top-tier of German football, returns this weekend with a full program of league matches after over two months without any action. In doing so they become the first major European football league to resume, although the precautions taken to enable to matches to take place mean that this is far from a return to normality. The teams have been in isolation for seven days in hotels, being tested regularly to ensure that nobody who takes the field has been infected with COVID-19. All matches will be played behind closed doors with no fans in attendance and the streets around the stadiums also cordoned off. The Bundesliga is well-known for the amazing support that the clubs receive at matches, so for the fixtures to be played in near-silence for the foreseeable future will take some getting used to. However, while the passion of the German fans can't be replicated, one club has used the power of print to try and replicate a normal matchday experience in an innovative way. Fourth-placed Borussia Mönchengladbach decided to launch a campaign called Stay at home. Be in the stands which encourages fans to buy a printed cardboard cutout of themselves to be installed inside the stadium. The cutouts cost £16. 50 each, with the profits being donated to local causes and charitable projects. The task of printing the cutouts has also been given to two printing firms in Mönchengladbach who were forced to close due to the coronavirus. The team's first home...

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> Read about how Solopress has lent some of its server space to the Folding@home project, helping them to try and create therapuetics to combat coronavirus.

- Published: 2020-05-08
- Modified: 2020-05-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-donates-server-space-to-fight-covid-19/
- Categories: Solopress News

If we were to say that Solopress had started folding, you would be forgiven for thinking that we were talking about preparing our latest brochure order. However, what we are actually doing is lending some of our server power to help some extremely clever people try to understand more about COVID-19, with the aim of eventually being able to design therapeutics to combat the virus. Folding@home is a distributed computing project based at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. Its purpose is to help scientists in their efforts to develop new therapeutics for diseases. They do this by simulating the dynamics of proteins that viruses like COVID-19 all have, using them to reproduce and limit the effectiveness of our immune system. These simulations allow scientists to observe how the atoms in a protein move rather than viewing them as a static snapshot. This process is called ‘protein folding’, which is where the project got its name. By creating and studying simulations like the one below, this can reveal to them new therapeutic opportunities that are otherwise unknown. So, what exactly are Solopress doing we hear you ask? Well, that is the beauty of the Folding@home project. Each simulation that is created requires a lot of computer power, and they need to run an enormous number of simulations to hopefully find something the scientists can use against COVID-19. With our business not as busy as it would normally be, we have a lot of server space that is currently not...

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> Managing director Simon Cooper comments on the news that Solopress' full face shields have received BSI certification to be used as PPE to contain COVID-19.

- Published: 2020-05-04
- Modified: 2021-06-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/face-shields-bsi-certification/
- Categories: Solopress News

Solopress’ CE-Marked Face Shields have been given the seal of approval after the British Standards Institution (BSI) officially certified them as ‘safety eyewear for use by healthcare workers, first responders and other personnel involved in the efforts to contain the COVID-19 virus and avoid its further spread. ’ They were tested by the BSI to determine whether they conformed to the PPE Regulation and EU recommendation 2020/403 scheme, with the results showing that they passed with flying colours and are BS EN 166:2002 compliant. In order to be classified as PPE, the face shields needed to pass a series of stringent tests which included: General construction. Eye-protectors shall be free for projections, sharp edges and other defects which are likely to cause discomfort or injury during use. Headbands. Headbands, when used as the principal means of retention, shall be at least 10mm wide over any portion which may come into contact with the wearer’s head. Headbands shall be adjustable or self-adjusting. Field of vision. Eye-protectors shall exhibit a minimum field of vision. Spherical, astigmatic and prismatic refractive powers. The visor must not affect the wearer's vision or strain their eyes. Quality of material and surface. Except for a marginal area 5 mm wide, oculars shall be free from any significant defects likely to impair vision in use, such as bubbles, scratches, inclusions, dull spots, pitting, mould marks, scouring, grains, pocking, scaling and undulation. Protection against droplets and splashes of liquid. Face shields cover a prescribed eye-region rectangle fully. Lateral protection....

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> Managing Director Simon Cooper discusses how Solopress have adapted their production capabitilies to join the fight against COVID-19 and support UK businesses.

- Published: 2020-05-01
- Modified: 2023-05-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-supports-businesses-during-covid-19/
- Categories: Solopress News

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to have a devastating impact across the UK, it will be no surprise to most that the print industry is one of many that is suffering at the present time. The cancellation of exhibitions, shows and sporting events, along with businesses up and down the country closing – some temporarily but others sadly for good – means that traditional print doesn’t have anywhere near the demand that it did a couple of months ago. Here at Solopress we have certainly experienced a slowdown in order volume which was to be expected. However, this has allowed us time to think about how we can use our machinery, suppliers and expertise to better help support businesses in the difficult weeks and months ahead, as well as how we can contribute to the national effort to fight back against the coronavirus. Thanks to some of our hardworking team, we have been able to setup our production facilities to produce both protective full face shields and countertop sneeze guards in-house, both of which have been designed to stop the spread of airborne droplets and help to prevent this virus from spreading. We have located these on a newly-created Coronavirus Essentials page which also includes links to products that we have seen customers printing in order to share important information or to encourage social distancing. Our face shields have been made using a clear PET material, which we treat with anti-fog spray and has an adjustable foam headband to make...

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> Read about this superb printed beer mat marketing campaign by Netflix for the hit series Better Call Saul that was launched in pubs and bars across the UK.

- Published: 2020-04-23
- Modified: 2023-02-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/better-call-saul-beer-mats/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

When the hugely popular Breaking Bad series came to an end in 2013, it was clear that there were still plenty more stories to be told. However, of all the characters that warranted their own spin-off series, shady lawyer Saul Goodman was perhaps not the obvious choice. Fast forward five years and the decision was an inspired one, with the prequel series Better Call Saul proving a smash-hit around the world as it slowly reveals the pre-Breaking Bad past of Goodman along with other central characters including Mike Ehrmantraut and Gus Fring. Better Call Saul was picked up by Netflix in the UK with the first episode set to be broadcast in February 2015. The marketers at the streaming giants got their heads together and came up with a superb marketing campaign, distributing thousands of custom printed beer mats in pubs and bars across the UK. The beer mats were designed to seem realistic, almost as though Goodman had actually given them to the pub himself, or more likely slipped them onto the tables when the landlord wasn’t looking. The message of ‘BOOZE GOT YOU IN TROUBLE AGAIN? ’ was well-targeted at people drinking in a pub, with the image of Goodman pointing at the person reading the mat reminiscent of the marketing that the character used to produce in Breaking Bad. Not content to stop there, the designer also added a deliberately amateurish-looking shape with a telephone number to call ‘for all your legal needs’. For anyone who was...

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> When distilling the essence of your offering down to an advertising slogan, it’s worth investing time and effort getting it right. Check out our 6 tips.

- Published: 2020-03-11
- Modified: 2023-03-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/6-tips-for-how-to-write-advertising-slogans-that-sell/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

“Slogan” is a bit of a catch-all term. For businesses it can mean a headline or a strapline. For a politician it can distil a policy or manifesto point into a quotable soundbite. Here, we’re going to be focusing on advertising slogans – those brief yet memorable lines that support a brand, product or campaign. Firstly, beware of any advice about advertising slogans that starts by referencing Coca-cola, Nike and McDonalds. Most of us aren’t working with a global brand that has decades of heritage to draw upon. Although, if we do have any brand managers from those franchises reading along at this point, welcome! But what about a developing brand struggling looking to define itself, establish recognition and differentiate itself from competitors? Or a brand that operates in a specific niche? Or a business-to-business brand? Clearly, we can’t all approach slogans in the same way the global brands do. Different challenges require different approaches. And that brings us to our first point: 1. Slogan examples: look for inspiration in all the right places. For familiarity’s sake, a lot of the slogan examples mentioned in this blog will come from big brands. But when you’re looking to find a reference to help kickstart your creativity, maybe don’t look to Coca-cola, Nike and McDonalds. Instead, look for a brand that was in a similar position to you and who made the leap you want to make. You can keep it within your own industry if you like. Is there a competitor...

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> Our tutorial video shows you how to set options and preferences to optimise your conversion from raster to vector using the image trace tool.

- Published: 2020-03-09
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-image-trace-tool-in-illustrator/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Illustrator

When you edit rasterised graphics and photos, you can quickly run into problems. Images can appear fuzzy or pixelated, and colours can be tricky to isolate and adjust. Converting raster to vector One answer is to convert raster files like JPEG and PNG into vector graphics. The Image Trace Tool in Illustrator scans your image and interprets it as a vector image. Our tutorial video shows you how to set options and preferences to optimise your conversion from raster to vector. Quality results Once you've converted a rasterised image into a vector graphic, it can be scaled up and down without losing quality. That's because a vector image doesn't store your image as a grid of individual pixels. Instead, it stores a set of mathematical information that describes the positions, shapes, and colours of each feature of your image. It's great for when you have a photographic image that you'd like to scale up for use for a large format print job. If you're sending artwork to print, Solopress offer low prices and free UK next day delivery. Video tutorial: How to use the Image Trace Tool in Illustrator If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription How to use the Image Trace Tool in Illustrator Today, you’ll be learning how to use the Image Trace Tool in Illustrator. Firstly, let’s go through the differences between Raster and Vector, since we’ll essentially be converting from one to...

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> Reach Tutors share their journey into the world of supplementary education and explain how printing with Solopress has helped them establish their business.

- Published: 2020-03-06
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/reach-tutors/
- Categories: Customer Stories

Reach Tutors is an educational startup that’s already built up a solid clientele of eager learners. Brothers Sanj and Akhil from Harrow in North London started the business late last year, offering revision classes in GCSE Maths and Science. Education, education education! Having both become qualified teachers in secondary education, the brothers gathered classroom experience in local schools, before becoming interested in supplementary tuition. As they grew aware of the local market for tuition, Sanj and Akhil became increasingly concerned that many practicing tutors appeared to be unqualified, lacking a DBS Check and out of touch with the ever changing demands of the National Curriculum. What’s more, they were charging exorbitant fees for their services. A business opportunity... The brothers spotted a clear gap in the market for high-quality, supplementary education by qualified teachers at an affordable price, and that’s how Reach Tuition was born. Sanj and Akhil remain full-time school teachers: immersed in the GCSE syllabus and the needs and concerns of pupils in years 9, 10 & 11. Crucially, they’re able to take this insight and use it to prepare GCSE candidates with complementary lessons that include exam technique and practice, as well as an understanding of mark schemes that helps pupils optimise their results. Promoting Reach Tutors One of the ways Sanj and Akhil have been able to market their business is through print. By starting off with business cards, they found a way to spread the word about Reach Tutors without a huge outlay: “Solopress has...

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> This tutorial shows how to create a glitch effect in Photoshop. Don't want to wait around for a technical fault, create your malfunction masterpiece today!

- Published: 2020-03-03
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-glitch-effect-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

If you've ever wondered how to recreate a glitch effect in Photoshop, then this tutorial is for you. The effect we're looking at is that kind of horizontal disruption coupled with colour aberrations that you see on screen when your tech goes on the fritz. If your computer crashes or your digital TV signal goes haywire, it can create some unexpectedly beautiful imagery – once you've overcome your frustration! It's a look that graphic designers have adopted and used to great effect in recent times. So if your don't want to wait around for a technical fault, this is our guide to achieving a glitchy image in Photoshop. Once you've created your malfunction masterpiece, Solopress have great prices on print and free UK delivery. Video tutorial: How to create a glitch effect in Photoshop If you liked this tutorial there's a whole series to explore when you subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription How to add a glitch effect in Photoshop We’re going to turn this... into this. Let’s get started. I'll start off with this image in our composition. I’m going to be going through a process where we only glitch a certain part of an image. Make sure your image is in Raster mode, rather than a smart object. I can do this by right clicking on the layer and selecting Rasterize. Firstly, I’ll duplicate the layer by right-clicking and selecting Duplicate. I'll rename this Background 2. I'll then go over to the left-hand side and...

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> We answer some of the most commonly asked questions we received when it comes to printing brochures and booklets here at Solopress.

- Published: 2020-03-02
- Modified: 2020-03-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/brochure-printing-your-questions-answered-2/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

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> In this tutorial, we look at how add a PDF to an InDesign document. Our video explores the options and preferences available as you import your PDF.

- Published: 2020-02-25
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-import-a-pdf-into-indesign/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: InDesign

In this tutorial, we’re taking a look at how import a PDF into InDesign. While InDesign doesn't support editable PDFs, you can import imagery from this format using the Place Command. You're then able to use all the functions available in InDesign to edit and add to your document. To add a PDF image in InDesign, follow these steps: Create an InDesign document. Match the dimensions and number of pages to the PDF you're importing. Go to the File menu, and click Place. In the Place dialog window, check the Show Import Options box. Double-click on the PDF you wish to import. Check your preferences in the Place PDF dialog window, and click OK. Click on the InDesign document to place the image. If you're importing multiple pages, click on each. These are the basic steps to follow when you add a PDF into an InDesign document. Watch our video tutorial to explore more of the options and preferences you can use as you import your PDF. Importing a PDF allows you to edit, manipulate and add to your document using all of the powerful and versatile tools available in InDesign. This added functionality will open up a whole new world of possibilities when preparing documents for print. For great prices on print – and free UK delivery ­– visit Solopress. Video tutorial: How to import a PDF into InDesign If this tutorial was helpful, you can access the whole series by subscribing to our YouTube Channel here: Video Transcription...

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> Making an impact at a trade show can be tough. Here’s our ultimate guide packed with exhibition stand ideas to help you smash it this exhibition season.

- Published: 2020-02-18
- Modified: 2024-02-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/the-ultimate-guide-to-exhibiting-at-trade-shows/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

An exhibition or trade show is a fantastic way to show off your products and services and to meet new customers. Exhibitions are great for gaining insights into your customer and the industry, so it’s never too early to start coming up with exhibition stand ideas. There’s an exhibition for almost every industry or interest, from car shows to comic con, business studies to weddings. These shows often span large halls holding thousands of like-minded people. There’s no better way to get in front of people who matter to your business. Making an impact at a trade show can be tough, though, with hundreds of exhibitors all competing for attention. For a truly stand-out stand, your team, your materials and your messaging will all have to be on point. Here’s our comprehensive guide to covering all the bases this exhibition season. What’s in this article? Before the trade show Be clear on objectives Be clear on budget Find a show, book a stand Timing your preparations Promote your presence Create a mock-up and have a dry run Exhibition stand ideas Creating your stand What’s your message? Embellishing your stand Branding to the max Materials to take away Promotional products During the trade show Putting the “show” in trade show Away team assemble! Impactful interactions Encourage 2-way communication Social media After the trade show Follow up Reflect and evaluate Before the trade show Be clear on objectives What do you want to achieve by attending a trade show or exhibition? What...

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> Clarify infographics and embellish your vector illustrations using dotted lines. Our tutorial shows you how to create a dotted line in Illustrator.

- Published: 2020-02-13
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-dotted-line-in-illustrator/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Illustrator

In this tutorial, we’re taking a look at how to make a dotted line in Illustrator. Dotted lines, or dashed lines as they are otherwise known, can be used in Adobe Illustrator for a variety of purposes. These include creating outlines, indicating a cutting or folding edge, or creating a custom brush stroke effect. Using a dashed line in a design can make it more effective by adding visual interest and variety to the artwork. These types of dashed lines can create a sense of movement or direction, drawing the viewer's eye to key elements or guiding them through the design. Additionally, dotted and dashed lines can add a sense of texture or dimensionality to an otherwise flat design, creating a more dynamic and engaging visual experience. By using these types of lines strategically, designers can enhance the overall impact and effectiveness of their designs. How to create a dotted line in Illustrator in 7 easy steps You can create dotted lines in Illustrator by following these steps: Create a line or shape using the line segment tool (/) Go to the Appearance section of the Properties tab on the right-hand side Click Stroke to open the stroke options Tick the Dashed Line box Enter values for lengths of dashes and gaps in between Specify a line thickness, by entering a value in the Weight field Choose from butt, round or projecting Caps to alter the shape of the dashes in your dotted line These are the basic steps to...

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> We’re taking a look at how to use the gradient tool in Photoshop to create stunning colour blend effects in your designs.

- Published: 2020-02-03
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-gradient-tool-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

We’re taking a look at how to use gradient tool in Photoshop. You’ll learn to use Photoshop gradients to create stunning colour blend effects in your designs. Select a shape in Photoshop With a shape tool selected, go to the “Fill” box in the selection bar at the top of the screen In the drop-down window, click the gradient tab In “Layers” on the right-hand side, double-click the layer thumbnail for your shape This opens the settings box for the Gradient Tool In “Type:” choose from linear, radial or freeform gradients Double click the circles at either end of the gradient bar to select the colours you wish to graduate between Click within your shape to apply the gradient Alternatively, draw a line with the gradient tool to define the length and angle of the gradient This is a simple way to add a gradient in Photoshop, but there are many more advanced options and functions to explore. View our video tutorial for a more in depth look at Photoshop gradients. The gradients you create in Photoshop look great on screen, but even better in print. For great prices on print – and free UK delivery ­– visit Solopress. Video tutorial: How to use the gradient tool in Photoshop Our series of video tutorials is packed with useful info on getting the most out of Adobe’s design programs. If you’d like to learn more, you can subscribe to our YouTube channel. Video Transcription How to use the gradient tool in...

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> Flyers and leaflets are an affordable way to promote events, products and services. Here's our comprehensive guide to flyers and leaflets.

- Published: 2020-01-30
- Modified: 2023-06-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-flyers-leaflets/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Flyers and leaflets are an affordable way to promote events, products and services – putting your message in front of a large audience. If they’re well designed, they’re likely to be kept by your recipients too. 45% of people who receive them are likely to pin one on their noticeboard, according to a DMA study. Distribute them in the best places, to the right people, and they can become one of the most effective parts of your marketing strategy. To help you master the entire process, we’ve created this complete guide for writing, designing, printing and distributing your flyers and leaflets. What’s in this article? What are the benefits of flyers and leaflets? How to write a leaflet or flyer How to design a leaflet or flyer that stands out What flyer or leaflet designs could I use? What’s a good size for a flyer or leaflet? What’s the right type of paper for flyers and leaflets? How to distribute flyers and leaflets What are the benefits of flyers and leaflets? The reasons businesses print flyers and leaflets are simple – to spread awareness, drive sales, attendance or simply to communicate information. But what makes flyers and leaflets such an effective way of doing this? We examine these benefits in our blog revealing the advantages of leaflets. In brief, those points are: Events promotion What gives flyers and leaflets the edge when advertising an event, is that there’s already a strong tradition of using them as a way to promote....

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> Mastering the Illustrator gradient tool lets you apply gradient effects to vector objects and modify the gradient attributes.

- Published: 2020-01-28
- Modified: 2021-04-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-use-the-gradient-tool-in-illustrator/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Illustrator

We’re taking a look at how to use the gradient tool in Illustrator. You’ll learn to apply gradient effects to vector objects and modify the gradient attributes. Create a shape in Illustrator Select the Gradient Tool from your toolbox Go to the “Fill” box under “Appearance” on the right of the screen This opens the settings box for the Gradient Tool In “Type:” choose from linear, radial or freeform gradients Double click the circles at either end of the gradient bar to select the colours you wish to graduate between Click within your shape to apply the gradient Alternatively, draw a line with the gradient tool to define the length and angle of the gradient View our video tutorial for a more in depth exploration of the options available when applying a gradient in Illustrator. Illustrator allows digital designers to create and edit unique vector graphics that can make your printed materials stand out from the crowd. For a great deal on print and free UK delivery, visit Solopress. Video Tutorial: How to use the gradient tool in Illustrator Our tutorial series features video content packed with practical digital design advice. By subscribing to our YouTube channel, you’ll never miss a lesson. Video Transcription How to use the gradient tool in Illustrator Hello everyone, My name’s Dan from Solopress, and welcome to our tutorial for how to use the gradient tool in Illustrator as part of our Graphic Design tutorial series. We’re creating a lot of free design content, so...

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> Check out our video tutorial to learn everything you need to know about adding bullet points in InDesign, Adobe's industry-leading publishing program.

- Published: 2020-01-24
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-bullet-points-in-indesign/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: InDesign

Adding bullet points in InDesign can help to bring clarity to your message. Check out our video tutorial to learn everything you need to know about InDesign bullet points. Select the type tool (T) Drag across your canvas to create a text area Type or paste your list into the text area Click the “Type” menu at the top of the window Select “Bulleted & Numbered Lists” from the drop-down menu Click “Apply Bullets” Knowing your way around InDesign is a key skill for anyone involved in working on print layout and page design. When you’re ready to go to print, visit Solopress for top quality print and free UK delivery. Video tutorial: How to add bullet points in InDesign Our series of video tutorials is packed with useful info on getting the most out of Adobe’s design programs. If you’d like to learn more, you can subscribe to our YouTube channel. Video Transcription How to add bullet points to InDesign Hello everyone, My name’s Marc from Solopress, and welcome to our tutorial for how to add bullet points in InDesign as part of our Graphic Design tutorial series. We’ll be creating a lot of free content for you, so make sure you click subscribe and the bell icon to be notified of when we upload. Adding bullet points is a very quick and easy process. Firstly, we need to make a text box by selecting the text tool and clicking and dragging like so. And I’ll paste a made-up...

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> Solopress customer Emma Warren speaks to us about how printed postcards keep her brand fresh in the minds of customers and encourage repeat purchases.

- Published: 2020-01-22
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/emma-warren-design/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Postcards

Emma Warren Design is an independent clothing brand and a valued Solopress customer. Emma uses embroidery to create original, offbeat designs that are full of character. The product range includes T-shirts, sweaters, jackets, bags and accessories for women, men and children. One stitch at time For the past two years, Emma has devoted herself to the business full-time. Prior to that she, built the label from scratch while taking on freelance work. With the help of friends, family, her colleague Jayne and dog Bea, Emma has now achieved her dream of turning her passion into her career. Tactile textiles While her abiding inspiration comes from insects (she loves a bee! ), stickers, her own teenage diaries and kooky slogans, Emma’s most recent work has taken a step back in time: "For this collection I have been inspired by 80s sportswear! In particular the shapes and pastel colours but still keeping my fine line stitch style adding in more colour, bugs and slogans of course! " The humour and positivity in Emma’s work are infectious, and her range offers the opportunity to own truly distinctive and imaginative pieces at accessible price points. Every trick in the book Emma has even authored a book called “Customize your Clothes” that gives a step-by-step guide for anyone that’s interested in how embroidery can help them to upcycle their existing pieces and transform their wardrobe. Picture perfect postcards The role that Solopress is able to play in all of this is to produce the bespoke...

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> The latest in our series of tutorial videos shows you how to add a drop shadow in Photoshop. introducing a third dimension to your 2D design.

- Published: 2020-01-20
- Modified: 2023-04-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-a-drop-shadow-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

There are a number of ways to add a drop shadow in Photoshop. This simple method allows you to apply an image or text shadow in Photoshop. How to create a drop shadow in Illustrator in 7 easy steps Use this simple step-by-step process to create your drop shadow in Adobe Photoshop: Position your graphic on the canvas Right-click on the Photoshop layer Select Drop Shadow from the pop-up layers palette Adjust attributes such as “opacity”, “distance”, “spread” and “size” using the sliders Set the angle of the drop shadow using the clock face style adjustment tool Check the “Global Light” box to apply this angle to all drop shadows within the project for a consistent look Use the Quality section of the pop-up window to experiment with effects the “contour” and “noise” effects. This is a great method for beginners, but for more advanced users, our video also expands on more advanced techniques. Video tutorial: How to add a drop shadow in Photoshop Our graphic design tutorial videos are filled with hints and tricks like these to expand your skills. Keep up with the series by subscribing to the Solopress YouTube channel. Video Transcription How to add a drop shadow in Photoshop Hello everyone, My name’s Dan, and welcome to our tutorial on how to add a drop shadow in Photoshop. There are loads of ways to do this, but firstly I’ll show you the most basic and easy way, using the built-in tool. First, we need to create...

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> We take you through our video tutorial on how to add fonts to Photoshop. This is part of our ongoing series of tutorial videos on the Adobe suite.

- Published: 2020-01-16
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-add-fonts-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Here’s how you can add fonts for Photoshop. The great news is, once you know how to download fonts, you can use them in other programs too! Search “free fonts download” or similar to find a site offering downloadable fonts Select a font and click download Extract the font file if it’s in a Zip, WinRAR or 7zip archive Right click on the font file and select “Install” Restart Photoshop, and any programs where you wish to use the new font Your newly installed font is now able to use across all of your applications If you’ve created a masterpiece using brand new typography and you’re ready to go to print, head over to www. solopress. com where you’ll find fast, high-quality print at low prices. Video tutorial: How to add fonts in Photoshop Our new series of video tutorials is a great source of information on Adobe’s design programs. If you’d like keep learning new digital design skills, subscribe to our YouTube channel for regular updates. Video Transcription Hello everyone, My name’s Dan from Solopress, and welcome to our tutorial for adding fonts to Photoshop as part of our Graphic Design tutorial series. We’re creating a lot of free design content, so make sure you click subscribe and the bell icon to be notified of when we upload. The way to add fonts to Photoshop on both Windows and Mac is a simple process, but instead of just adding them to Photoshop, you’ll be adding them to your actual...

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> In this video tutorial, we present a step-by-step guide on how to resize an image in photoshop without compromising on resolution.

- Published: 2020-01-14
- Modified: 2021-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-resize-an-image-in-photoshop/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Here’s how to scale an image in Photoshop. By using Smart Objects, you’ll maintain image resolution, resulting in higher quality finished work. Select the image and right click on the layer Select “Convert to Smart Object” from the pop-up menu Use Ctrl+T on PC or Cmd+T on Mac to enable Free Transform Locate the Set Horizontal Scale (marked W:) or Set Vertical Scale (marked H:) fields in the selection bar Check the “maintain aspect ratio” box (the chain link symbol between the W: and H: fields) to constrain proportions Enter a percentage value in either of the W: or H: fields (above 100% to increase size and below 100& to reduce) Our video shows you in greater detail how and why this is the best way to resize an image without losing quality in Photoshop. But if you’re ready to go to print, or you’d rather let our in house design team handle the artwork, head over to Solopress. Video tutorial: How to resize an image in Photoshop This series of video tutorials is packed with tips on getting the best out of Adobe’s design programs. If you’d like to stay up to date with the series, subscribe to our YouTube channel below. Video transcription Hello everyone, My name’s Dan from Solopress, and welcome to our tutorial for how to resize an image in Photoshop as part of our Graphic Design tutorial series. We’ll be creating a lot of free content for you, so make sure you click subscribe and...

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> Classic Blue is the Pantone colour of the year for 2020. We look at why it came out top, why now, and how you can use it to great effect.

- Published: 2020-01-08
- Modified: 2021-01-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/pantone-colour-of-the-year-2020/
- Categories: Art & Design

This is Classic Blue – named colour of the year for 2020. But why this particular shade? And why now for 2020? Let’s dive into the deep blue and explore exactly why Classic Blue has already been crowned Pantone colour of the year. Why is the colour of the year important? Classic Blue was named colour of the year by the Pantone Color Institute. Most of us have heard of Pantone, but who are they? And what makes their opinion on colour so significant? In 1963 the company Pantone (based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA), introduced a colour referencing scheme called the Pantone Matching System®. It quickly became an international industry standard among designers, printers and manufacturers. Among other products and services, Pantone curates a growing library of more than 1,300 unique colour references. Since 1999, the Pantone Color Institute has named a colour of the year. The one they’ve selected for 2020 is 19-4052 – or Classic Blue. Its simple name belies the depth and range of the Pantone system. Within Pantone’s catalogue, there are probably around 300 to 400 shades that might be described as ‘blue’, depending on your individual interpretations, tastes and photoreceptors. When Pantone announces its colour of the year, marketing agencies, brand managers, interior designers, fashion houses and paint and dye manufacturers all sit up and listen. In fact, for anyone working with colour, Pantone’s colour of the year is a significant event that has the power to influence design trends over the coming 12...

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> Saying thank you is important at Christmas. Here’s our guide to gratitude marketing, how to tackle it and the business opportunities it offers.

- Published: 2019-12-05
- Modified: 2022-12-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/gratitude-marketing-at-christmas/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

Here’s our guide to the importance of gratitude marketing at Christmas – as well as the business opportunities it offers. The importance of gratitude marketing Simply saying thank you, especially over Christmas and new year is an important gesture to make to your client base. 72% of people surveyed felt that a message of gratitude from a business is still meaningful whether or not it’s accompanied by a discount or a gift, so you don't always need to bust the bank with giveaways. Sometimes it really is the thought that counts. Gratitude and brand loyalty Brand loyalty is an important factor in customer retention. Relationship building is a huge part of loyalty and retention, especially for B2B businesses. The more this is recognised and acknowledged with interactions that work on a social, as well as a business level, the closer those bonds are allowed to grow. The perfect representation of this over Christmas has to be a Christmas card. Christmas cards It’s Christmas after all and a card is an ideal opportunity to show your appreciation and bolster business relationships. 44% of the people we surveyed did NOT agree that an email was a valid substitute for a card from a business. So that’s a sizeable chunk of your client base that WILL be expecting a card from you. Plus, 92% of traditional mail is opened, so your customers are more likely to open a physical card than a thank you email. If your business sends a corporate Christmas card,...

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> In this podcast, we chat to B2B marketers about their experiences of Christmas seasonality. We discuss timings, trends, strategies and solutions, as well as what lies beyond.

- Published: 2019-12-03
- Modified: 2021-10-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/beyond-christmas-for-b2b-companies/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

Christmas is boom time for many hospitality and retail businesses, but what about B2B? In this podcast, we speak to Thomas Amos from marketing agency DesignBox Media about the festive B2B experience. We chat about Thomas' experiences of seasonality within DesignBox and across its client base around the Christmas period. During the discussion, we cover timings, trends, strategies and solutions, as well as looking to the future that lies beyond the tinsel...

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> WHAT discount claims are you entitled to make? WHEN are people shopping? HOW do you promote your sale? WHY is everything red and white? Here's our guide to January sales marketing.

- Published: 2019-11-28
- Modified: 2020-07-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-your-january-sale/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Christmas

Welcome to our WHAT, WHEN, HOW and WHY of January sales marketing. We’re going to be taking a look at WHAT discounts you can offer; WHEN are people doing their sale shopping; HOW do you go about promoting your sale; and WHY on earth is everything red and white? WHAT discount will you offer, and can you back it up? Expectations around January sales have never been higher, and retailers in particular are under enormous pressure to drop prices as far as they dare. Whether or not you choose to get caught up in a race to the bottom, it’s good to know what‘s going on in the current retail climate, and what sort of claims you’re able to make around your sale offer. The Percentages game... Does 10% really get anyone excited anymore? What does it have to be? 25%? 50%? Actually, over the last decade, retailers seem to have settled on a “70% off” message as the high street standard for January Sale discount offers. 70% - the magic number? Many big names seem to have settled on 70% as their sweet spot. Boots, HMV and Topshop have all opted for lucky number 70. It almost feels as though retailers are choosing the mix of products to include in their sale specifically to come in at the magic number. Last year ASOS, Gap and River Island all increased their savings offer from 60% to 70% while their sale was ongoing in response to competitor activity. Remember a January...

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> In the Solopress Christmas survey, 57% of shoppers said they’d attended a Christmas event hosted by a business. Here's our guide to putting on your own Christmas event.

- Published: 2019-11-26
- Modified: 2022-11-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/holding-a-christmas-event/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

In the Solopress Christmas survey*, 57% of shoppers said they’d attended a Christmas event hosted by a business. With this level of participation, it’s certainly worth considering whether putting on a Christmas event for the benefit of customers, clients and the wider public might help cement relationships and even create new ones. Grotto superstar Will the man himself be visiting your store or location this December? Hosting a Santa’s Grotto at your place of business is a Christmas classic, and for good reason. You can draw in the crowds and sometimes even charge them for the privilege. Make sure your close neighbours aren’t planning the same idea, though. Having two Father Christmases in close proximity may confuse young minds and lead to difficult questions for mums and dads to answer. Other perils of the grotto are just as well-known. Suffice it to say, trusted and vetted seasonal staff with up-to-date DBS checks and impeccable personal hygiene are an absolute must. But get it right and you may create your very own Miracle on 34th Street! Open your doors If you're a business that doesn't naturally attract a huge footfall, you can still throw open your doors in the season of goodwill. A simple event offering refreshments can work well for a solicitor, estate agent or other high street office business – simply offer a glass of fizz and a mince pie or two. They might come in to warm up a bit and end up striking up conversations that lead...

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> A Christmas card – it's the original seasonal mail-out. Our video guide to bespoke corporate Christmas cards discusses sending cards to clients & customers

- Published: 2019-11-21
- Modified: 2020-01-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/corporate-christmas-cards/
- Categories: Art & Design, Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas, Christmas Cards

A Christmas card – it's the original seasonal mail-out. Our video guide to corporate Christmas cards discusses: Bespoke business Christmas card design Selecting the perfect paper stock Exploring finishing options for unique corporate Christmas cards How to tackle the messaging When's the best time to get prepared So take a look at our video and let us know what you think! If you want to explore how Christmas card printing help you send your best wishes out to customers, clients and suppliers, visit us at www. solopress. com or give us a call on 01702 460047. We'll be happy to discuss your bespoke Christmas card needs.

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> We cast our eye over the Christmas gift guide designs created by several large retail brands whose brochures we’ve seen so far in Christmas 2019.

- Published: 2019-11-19
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-gift-guides/
- Categories: Art & Design, Special Occasions
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets, Christmas Cards

Christmas 2019 is live in all the big stores. For many brands, that means the publication of a Christmas gift guide. An astonishing 67% of people surveyed by Solopress* said that a Christmas gift guide helped them discover gift ideas. With two thirds of shoppers making purchases on the strength of them, it’s no wonder that Christmas gift guides are big business. We’ve taken this opportunity to cast our eye over some of the Christmas gift guides we’ve seen so far in 2019. We take a magnifying glass to the design choices made by several large retail brands, as well as offering our top tips for your business, inspired by this year's trends. John Lewis & Partners Brochure Type: Perfect bound Pages: 128 Size: 210 x 260mm The more well-known the brand, the more understated it can afford to be in its design. Accordingly, this front cover from John Lewis features a minimal word count and precisely zero product images. A motif running throughout the brochure is the gold confetti that features to a greater or lesser extent in nearly all of the product and fashion shots, and as a graphical element on the cover. Given the gold sparkle theme, it would have been great to see some adventurous finishing on the cover such as spot UV or foiling. John Lewis are in a unique position. They've become established as the bellwether Christmas brand, while approaching last-man-standing status in the large department store sector. It's great to see the brand...

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> Take a look at our Black Friday marketing ideas and discover how your business can make the most of the event this year. Visit Solopress today.

- Published: 2019-11-18
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/black-friday-marketing-ideas-for-small-businesses/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Video Summary If you're a little strapped for time or just prefer to watch, please check out our video summary of this article right below. It contains all of the helpful tips and advice so you won't be missing out. If you're like us and love to have a good read, see our full article a little further down. Black Friday has become one of the biggest days in the calendar for retailers across the globe. First conceived in the US, the concept has since travelled across the pond. Now, UK businesses big and small are jumping onboard the seasonal shopping extravaganza, attracting customers with huge discounts and promotions. In recent years, the total retail sales value for the month of November in the UK has increased by 10. 85%, from 32. 14bn in 2015 to 37. 31bn in 2018 - and is expected to rise even further. Research shows that a pattern has begun to appear, with consumers now spending more on their Christmas shopping in November than December due to Black Friday. However, it’s not just the big retailers who can benefit from Black Friday – according to research, more than 75% of UK retailers offer some form of promotion related to this seasonal event. Most put together a Black Friday marketing strategy for both online and offline channels ahead of the big day to ensure their sales roll in. Discover our guide to Black Friday marketing ideas for small businesses to see how you can get involved...

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> We discuss 7 methods and mechanics for upselling and cross-selling at Christmas, as well as 7 golden rules for getting it right!

- Published: 2019-11-14
- Modified: 2020-01-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/upselling-and-cross-selling-at-christmas/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

Upselling and cross-selling are strategies employed by retailers to sell extra products to their customers. By incentivising customers to spend more than they may have intended to spend, the retailer achieves an increase in transaction value. But what’s the difference between cross-selling and upselling? Upselling is when a customer comes in for a light bulb and you sell them a pack of three by pointing out that it’s a good idea to have spares. Or selling them a more expensive bulb by highlighting its virtues such as superior performance, energy efficiency or extended life span. Cross-selling is when a customer comes in for a lamp and you sell them a light bulb by pointing out that the lamp needs a light bulb. So upselling is using marketing techniques to increase transaction value on a single type of product, whereas cross-selling increases transaction value by introducing a complementary product. Beyond French fries... When most people think about their experience of upselling, they recall that immortal line: “Do you want fries with that? ” although, as we’ve seen, that’s actually “cross-selling” rather than “upselling”. It’s also worth noting that over a quarter of those surveyed by Solopress disapproved of unhealthy add-ons – more on that later! But what lies beyond the fries? What other ways are there to be genuinely helpful to customers while driving transaction values? And what do audiences really feel about the whole thing anyway? 67% of shoppers confirmed that they had taken advantage of an add-on item offered...

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> When ethical kids' interiors company Too Many PJs exhibited at the London Design Festival, Solopress were thrilled to take care of the print requirements.

- Published: 2019-11-07
- Modified: 2021-11-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/too-many-pjs/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets, Stickers & Labels

Our long-standing client Too Many PJs has an inspirational business ethos: to source organic, sustainable materials and turn them into products that bring comfort and charm into the homes of young families. “When we start having children we instantly need a lot more stuff. I believe that we should maintain the same high standards of quality and design in our children's things as we do in our own. after all, they'll be in our houses! I only design products that I would use in my own house and buy for my own kids. ” Erin Plant The Too Many PJs range of bedding, play mats, toys and décor items are beautifully handmade with love. Each item achieves a cosy, nurturing aesthetic – and in many cases, aids children’s sensory development too. All this is accomplished with a responsible attitude to the world that Too Many PJs’ youngest customers will grow to inhabit! Show & tell When business owner, Erin Plant decided to exhibit at the London Design Festival earlier in the year, Solopress was thrilled to be involved. We partnered with Too Many PJs to produce stickers and brochures for the event. Erin’s exhibit was called Corner of My Kids Room, and featured a collaboration between Too Many PJs and small collection of hand-picked brands that share Erin’s vision for fun and stylish children’s interiors. “The show was an huge success with visitors from near and far. It was also super fun to organise. I think we could be due...

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> In this marketing podcast, we focus on how B2C business can attract footfall and increase revenue during the Christmas period and beyond.

- Published: 2019-11-05
- Modified: 2020-01-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/christmas-marketing-strategies-for-b2c-businesses/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

In this podcast, Solopress video marketing expert Dan Allen chats with 2 relative newcomers here at Solopress. Marketing manager James Shields and copywriter Danny Powell bring a wealth of experience from their time spent marketing B2C brands in previous roles. Together, we cover: attracting footfall optimising customer experience driving up transaction values retaining customers beyond Christmas Give our podcast a listen and let us know what you think. If you need any support to produce materials that help push your Christmas marketing to the next level, call us on 01702 460047 or use Live Chat now.

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> It's a busy time, but there are plenty of reasons why a Christmas competition is worthwhile. We offer some DOs & DON'Ts for holding your Christmas comp.

- Published: 2019-11-01
- Modified: 2022-11-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-competition/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

It’s the time for giving, and a Christmas competition could be just the thing to embrace the Christmas spirit, capture your audience’s imagination, and maintain the momentum of your Christmas campaign. Plus, it marks you out as a generous business partner and associates your brand with good times. Here are our 7 reasons why a competition could benefit your business, plus our DOs and DON’Ts of holding a competition. 7 reason to run a Christmas competition 39% have entered a Christmas competition 1. It’s in keeping with the season In the Solopress Christmas Survey, 39% of people asked said that they’d taken part in a Christmas themed competition. That’s a strong precedent. It demonstrates that people have an experience and expectation of competitions around Christmas, so you can be reasonably confident of a strong uptake. 44% tempted by a competition 2. It’s effective inbound marketing A significant chunk of the market that might not otherwise have shown interest in your business could be enticed by an attractive prize promotion. 44% of respondents in our survey felt that a competition would tempt them to use a business at Christmas time. 3. Keep up momentum If you analyse previous years’ performances you may be able to identify a particular week, or audience segment, where you could bring performance up. Google Analytics is a particularly useful tool in this regard for online businesses. A piece of promotional activity like a targeted competition could be just the ticket. 4. Positive press A competition also...

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> You need to adapt your tone of voice over Christmas without losing sight of your core brand identity. Here's our video guide to the DOs and DON'Ts of Christmas content.

- Published: 2019-10-24
- Modified: 2020-01-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-content-dos-and-donts/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

In this video, we’re discussing the DOs and DON’Ts around the content your brand puts out at Christmas time. Our video explores how your tone of voice adapts during the holiday season. We discuss how well-judged content can capture the spirit of the season as well as your audience’s imagination. We’ll also discuss the importance of good timing, what sensitive areas you should avoid and how inappropriate humour can backfire on you. Watch our video for all the DOs and DON’Ts.

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> Print can play a major role in solving many of these challenges Christmas. With 20 years of experience in the industry, we’re in a great place to help out. Here are 14 tips to help you get the most out of printed materials this Christmas and beyond.

- Published: 2019-10-22
- Modified: 2020-01-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/preparing-for-christmas-with-print/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

With 2019 set to be one of the most challenging Christmases for business in recent years, print represents an economical way to splash the seasonal spirit throughout your estate. While you might not be able to stretch to that fibre-glass Santa-sleigh this year, a poster, sign or banner can let you tell your Christmas story for a fraction of the investment. For your customers and clients, you’ll need to change up your display materials to reflect the season. You’ll advertise gifting opportunities and shout about deals. The people you speak to at Christmas change too. They’re often different from your regular audience so you’ll need to offer assistance and navigation through your display materials. It’s not just external communications that need to adapt, either. Among your colleagues, you’ll need to spread motivation, instruction and information, ensuring everyone pulls together. Temporary seasonal staff may require even closer guidance. Print can play a major role in solving many of these challenges for you. With 20 years of experience in the industry, we’re in a great place to help out. Here are 14 tips to help you get the most out of printed materials this Christmas and beyond. 1. Get festive 69% look forward to Christmas displays* 69% of the people that we surveyed said that they look forward to seeing Christmas displays in shops and businesses, and we can’t let those people down! If you’re a business that welcomes clients and customers onsite, printed materials are a cost-effective way to bring Christmas...

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> Take a look at our handy timeline infographic that will help you plan your Christmas marketing activity to make the biggest impact.

- Published: 2019-10-17
- Modified: 2020-01-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-marketing-timeline/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

Important dates We've created a handy infographic timeline, denoting important dates and points of interest along the road to Christmas. It's peppered with exclusive statistics gleaned from our Christmas survey, along with other valuable business insights. It might just contain that one key piece of info that lifts your Christmas trading! Click the image to enlarge.

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> Accessibility is a big deal in design. Yet many businesses are ignoring it. Read our report on what UK businesses think about design accessibility.

- Published: 2019-10-07
- Modified: 2019-10-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-accessibility-survey-solopress/
- Categories: Print Industry News

We asked UK businesses whether they consider design accessibility issues when creating print – and the results show that more businesses are ignoring accessibility compared to those considering it. More than half (56%) of businesses fail to take into consideration accessibility needs related to conditions such as dyslexia, colour blindness and early dementia – according to our survey of 622 UK businesses. This means over half of all printed marketing materials by British firms fail to recognise the accessibility needs of millions of people in the UK. But it’s not all bad news for accessible design. Our research shows that 44% of businesses do consider at least one accessibility issue when creating printed designs. And 60% of firms believe they should take accessibility issues into consideration. In response to the findings, we have worked with usability experts to create a set of accessible design templates – launched to coincide with Dyslexia Awareness Week 2019 (October 7-13). Our managing director Simon Cooper says “more education is needed” to highlight the issue of accessibility in design. The problem with accessibility Up to 21 million people in the UK currently live with visual, cognitive or learning challenges. This includes people with conditions such as dyslexia, as well as those with basic literacy issues. Government guidelines exist that outline best practice for creating accessible printed materials. These guidelines make recommendations, such as minimum font size, for designing for people with accessibility issues. Organisations like the British Dyslexia Association also publish guidance on accessibility design....

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> Accessible design is a big topic. Learn how we created templates that comply with designing for accessibility best practice. Get the templates.

- Published: 2019-10-06
- Modified: 2020-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/designing-for-accessibility-how-we-created-expert-approved-templates/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Design accessibility is a big issue. Millions of people in the UK experience problems reading printed materials, such as posters and leaflets. But many firms are ignoring the issue of designing for accessibility. Our recent survey found 56% of businesses fail to consider accessibility needs related to conditions such as dyslexia, colour blindness and early dementia. Many businesses are creating printed materials that deliver information in a way that many people cannot understand. At Solopress we want to change that. We’ve created a set of accessible design templates that will help you create printed materials that can be read and understood by more people. We created these templates: A3 poster A5 leaflet Business card Our templates have been added to the Assured Classification by the British Dyslexia Association, in recognition of their accessibility for people with dyslexia. Learn how we created the templates. Helen Boden, CEO, British Dyslexia Association, said: “These designs are part of our Assured scheme, showing they will work for people with dyslexia. We hope people using them will see that dyslexia-friendly design is simple and makes content easier to engage with for everyone. ” What is accessible design? Printed materials that are said to have “accessible design” are those created using colours, fonts and layouts that can be read by a much broader audience. This particularly includes those living with: Dyslexia – an estimated 6. 6 million people in the UK live with varying severities of dyslexia, according to the NHS. Colour blindness – 3 million...

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> The Print Show is the UK’s print industry annual expo at the NEC. For our first ever appearance, we decided to bring the beach to Birmingham.

- Published: 2019-09-26
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-at-the-print-show-2019/
- Categories: Exhibitions & Trade Shows, Solopress News

The Print Show is an annual trade expo that brings together over 6000 visitors and over 140 exhibitors from the UK’s print industry at the NEC. For our first ever appearance at The Print Show we decided to bring the beach to Birmingham, and our stand was a shore-fire hit! A refreshing presence at the show As this was our debut appearance – and our 20th anniversary year – we went all out to make a splash with our seaside theme, inspired by our hometown of Southend-on-Sea. The stand proved extremely popular with event visitors, who enjoyed tea and coffee from our refreshments bar and ice cream from our traditional trike. Partners to the trade Speaking with our Managing Director, Simon Cooper, it was clear that he very much enjoyed all aspects of the show: "it was enlightening to discover what a large portion of our customers were in attendance and how interested they were in our new products such as foiled business cards" Simon was particularly grateful for the opportunity to dispel any idea that Solopress is a brand that works predominantly with end-users and consumers: "The majority of our revenue comes from resellers and agencies, so being at the show was a great opportunity to meet those kinds of customers and to explain that we're a brand that services the trade. " He also hinted that 2020 would be an exciting year for Solopress, with the launch of a new programme that will increase our focus on the...

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> It's showtime. Spot UV and foiling let you highlight design elements in gold, silver or gloss varnish, to create an eye-catching & tactile brochure.

- Published: 2019-09-20
- Modified: 2022-11-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/lets-shimmer-and-shine-our-guide-to-gold-foil-silver-foil-and-spot-uv/
- Categories: Print Inspiration, Solopress News
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

Here at Solopress, we recently plugged in our new Konica Minolta MGI JETvarnish 3DS machine. While you might not share our enthusiasm for specialist print hardware, you may be interested in the shiny new options that spot UV and foiling offers. Our video gives you a teaser of some of the stunning effects that can be achieved. So here’s our handy guide to exactly what these processes are, how they can enhance your designs, and what to do when you want to order them from us: Spot UV varnishing Laminated paper stocks tend to be either matt, gloss or anything in between. They offer a uniform finish across the entire sheet. What spot varnishing allows us to do is to define lines, shapes, designs and lettering in a high gloss UV varnish that contrasts with the underlying paper stock. This lets you pick out certain details in a shiny surface texture that’s distinct from the rest of the design. The finer details If your notion of varnish is of a thick and gloopy substance, nothing could be further from the truth when it comes to this process. With the ability to apply lines of varnish as narrow as half a millimetre, our JETvarnish printer is able to recreate incredibly fine detail – as well as expansive solid areas. The thickness of the finish can be as little as three hundredths of a millimetre, pretty much flat to the surface. Alternatively, we can build up coats in multiple layers to create...

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> Get creative – and save money – with multi version posters. Print a collection of unique, individual posters for less than the cost of ordering individually.

- Published: 2019-09-16
- Modified: 2019-10-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/all-new-multi-version-poster-options-solopress/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Tags: Posters

Get creative and save time with multi version posters At Solopress, we’re constantly updating our approach so that we can offer new and exciting product options. This week, we’re thrilled to be introducing an option for multi version posters so that you can add multiple poster designs in one print order. What are multi version posters? Our new option lets you order a batch of posters featuring more than one unique design – without the need to place multiple orders. Instead of going through the process of placing separate orders for each poster design, you can get the lot in one hit. As well as saving time, you’ll also save money – as the cost is less than ordering each design individually. Also, if you order your posters before 2pm, you’ll get them tomorrow on a free delivery. How can you make the most of multi version posters? Now that you’re free to get creative with multiple poster designs, how can you use them effectively? We’ve come up with a few simple ideas to get you started: Countdown to Launch 5... 4... 3... 2... 1... Go! Why not ramp up anticipation of a special event with launch posters that countdown to the big day? It needn’t be a daily countdown; you could go for one per week – just remember to keep replacing those posters! On tour If you’re promoting an event that shifts location, you can feature a different time, place and date on your multi version posters. This...

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> Here's the Solopress guide to all the different folded leaflet types – and how they can bring something fresh to your next piece of promotional collateral

- Published: 2019-09-06
- Modified: 2021-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/folded-leaflet-type-guide/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Know your folds! Our insider’s guide to folded leaflets When your message is too big to fit on a flyer, a folded leaflet is ideal. It can provide a multi-page format without stretching to a stapled or bound booklet. For an exhibition or event, gate fold or cross fold leaflets can create an enticing front cover that unfolds to reveal an eye-opening interior. For parks, outdoor centres or tourist attractions, a map fold leaflet can become an invaluable site map for your visitors. But what are the differences between the various kinds of folded flyer – and what are the best applications for each? We’ll start with the simple stuff... Half Fold Imagine the world’s shortest book. Just a front cover, two inside pages and a back cover. That’s it. The simplest way of creating four pages from one sheet – you simply fold it in half. Example dimensions for A4 unfolded are: Flat size: 210mm x 297mm Folded size: 210mm x 148mm Concertina Fold Instead of folding a landscape sheet in half to create a half fold, we start with the sheet in a portrait orientation and fold it in half lengthwise. This creates a tall, thin, four-page leaflet called a concertina fold. Example dimensions for A4 unfolded are: Flat size: 210mm x 297mm Folded size: 105mm x 297mm Roll Fold This one takes it up a level. Also known as a "letter fold", it features two parallel folds, dividing each side of the sheet into three pages. The...

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> Whether you’re a solo artist, band member or live music promoter – advertising your event is vital. Read our guide to promotional print that will have you packing them in.

- Published: 2019-09-02
- Modified: 2023-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/live-music-promoting-with-print/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Is there an industry that’s seen a rockier relationship between physical and digital media than Rock & Roll? We don’t think so. And although digital may be winning through in terms of how we consume recorded music, live music is all about being there. It’s that connection you get through watching an artist do their thing on stage that holds such a magic appeal. It’s hard to imagine anything taking its place for fans of the live music experience. So what could be more appropriate for promoting live music than something physical? A little piece of your creativity, enshrined in print, for your audience to check out or take away with them. Whether you’re a solo artist, band member or live music promoter – advertising your event is vital to getting the word out. Producing marketing material will be high on your list, so here’s the Solopress guide to promotional print that will have you packing them in. Amplify with Flyers With your event looming on the calendar, it’s time to start promoting. A flyer is the classic piece of marketing collateral to press into the palms of potential gig-goers. The local angle is vital when you’re targeting a specific scene. You know where your audience comes together in search of evening entertainment. You can hit those locations with confidence using flyers. Whether you’re organising a rap battle or a tea dance, this lets you focus your efforts in the right cultural and geographical areas. A flyer is something for...

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> Compact, affordable and effective, table talkers are taking over the service industry. Find out how your brand can benefit from them with our guide.

- Published: 2019-08-29
- Modified: 2019-11-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/table-talkers/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> What is a leaflet? What are the best fonts to use? And how do you distribute them? Discover the questions and answers you need to know in our Q&A guide.

- Published: 2019-08-26
- Modified: 2022-09-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/what-is-a-leaflet-10-essential-questions-about-leaflets/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Leaflet printing is a simple and cost-effective way for you to get your message out to current and prospective customers. Our guide answers the 10 key Leaflet questions you might have before ordering a batch for your business. What is a Leaflet? A Leaflet is a small sheet of printed paper that puts across a short message clearly and concisely. Businesses use Leaflets to advertise their products and services as part of their marketing strategy. They’re often also used to let people know about new stores, special offers and events. They can either be: Handed out face-to-face Delivered to customers through the letterbox Stapled to a brochure and passed on What is the difference between Flyers and Leaflets? Historically, the words ‘Flyer’ and ‘Leaflet’ have had meant different things: Flyers: A single sheet of paper, with a front and back page – often used to promote events and club nights Leaflets: A folded sheet, folded to create the effect of multiple pages and provide space for more content However, as time has gone on, these two terms have become more interchangeable and are generally considered to be the same thing in the present day. What is the standard size of a Leaflet? A5 Flyers are the most frequent size ordered by our customers, measuring 148 x 210 mm. DL Leaflets are a popular choice, as they have a tall, slim design that works well for many types of business. It leaves ample room for text and space for imagery –...

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> Customers are key to any successful business. Build your customer loyalty and increase your sales with our top marketing ideas for coffee shops.

- Published: 2019-08-23
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/top-10-ideas-for-coffee-shops-to-promote-themselves-using-print/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Using A-boards for advertising? Get answers to important questions about so-called sandwich boards – from A-board sizes to design. Learn more.

- Published: 2019-08-19
- Modified: 2023-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-questions-about-a-boards/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

A-boards – sometimes known as sandwich boards – are one of the most effective ways to catch the eye and attract new business. Learn how to use A-boards as part of your marketing efforts with our guide to the most common questions. What is an A-board? An A-board is an outdoor sign that businesses use to promote their brands, products, offers and discounts. Designed to attract new customers, A-boards act to boost footfall by signposting your premises to people walking past. Sometimes they’re called sandwich boards or even a pavement sign. Types of A-board include: Durable aluminium frames that display professionally-printed posters Chalk or whiteboards that businesses can write their own messages on Why are they called an A-board? A-boards get their name from their ‘letter A’, which is the shape they resemble when looked at side-on. Whatever they’re made from, A-boards feature two flat sides with a connecting joint in the middle. These flat sides provide double the advertising space of a regular sign, helping to attract people walking in either direction. They’re also sturdy enough to stay in place in most weathers on busy town and city centre surfaces. What size is an A-board? A-boards come in various sizes, prices and frame types. At Solopress, we offer three A-board sizes: A2 - 594 x 420mm A1 - 841 x 594mm A0 - 1189 x 841 mm Each size relates to the dimensions of the paper you can attach to either or both sides of your board. You can...

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> In this latest instalment of ‘We are Solopress’, we speak with Marc Baker from our Marketing team. Marc is our mild-mannered Digital Designer, just don’t mention Comic Sans…

- Published: 2019-08-16
- Modified: 2019-08-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/we-are-solopress-marc-baker/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Formats: Video

In this latest instalment of ‘We are Solopress’, we speak with Marc Baker from our Marketing team. Marc is our mild-mannered Digital Designer, just don’t mention Comic Sans... On screen, on paper or on his feet, sneakers-obsessed Marc is ahead of the curve when it comes to design trends. We discover what Marc loves about being a Digital Designer – beyond the fact that it supports his passion for collectible trainers! Check out Marc’s video to discover how he deals with creating imagery that portrays just how impressive Solopress products look and feel in real life.

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> Solopress has acquired a Kongsberg C Edge – a multi-function, super-wide digital cutting table with some high-tech tricks up its sleeve…

- Published: 2019-08-08
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/making-the-cut-solopress-invests-in-kongsberg-c-edge-cutting-table/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Formats: Video

There’s more to printing than just printing. We take great pride in a fantastic finish, and that includes trimming products to size with perfect precision. So as part of a larger investment project, which includes some formidable print equipment (including two HP Indigo 10000 digital presses and two Agfa Anapurna H2500i LED hybrid wide-format presses), we’ve now acquired a state-of-the art Kongsberg C Edge Cutting Table. Cutting Edge Technology Our printers are big and fast – so we needed a digital finishing table that could keep up. And because we offer such a broad range of products, it had to be a versatile unit that could adapt and cope with multiple operations on multiple materials. The Kongsberg C Edge was the clear choice. This multi-function, super-wide digital finisher represents the last word in finishing technology – both in terms of cutting, milling, routing and creasing our products perfectly into shape – but also in terms of the way the software allows us to plan jobs. The integrated Device Manager is able to glance at our workflow and gang up multiple orders in an instant with optimal efficiency. As Solopress MD, Simon Cooper explains, “When you produce on a rigid substrate, you buy very large boards, which you then print multiple different customer orders onto, before using the cutter to separate these out into the respective jobs at their finished size. By doing this we’re able to pass on significant cost efficiencies to our customers”. This technology enables us to: eliminate...

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> Thinking of networking and promoting your brand at a marketing event? Learn about the best marketing exhibitions with our profile of the world’s biggest.

- Published: 2019-08-05
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/best-marketing-trade-shows/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibitions

Marketing trade shows are a fantastic opportunity for brands to showcase their products and services – alongside some of the world’s most influential companies. Experts from industry-leading businesses hold inspiring seminars and talks and offer the chance to network with the best. We’ve profiled eight of the world’s best marketing exhibitions and trade shows to help boost the reach of your business. 1. Festival of Marketing What is it? Largest global event that is dedicated to brand marketers. Features keynote speakers from the industry, as well as celebrity guests who appear on-stage to discuss the importance, and their experiences, of building a brand. There are 12 stages of content, as well as the Festival City, which acts as the interactive centrepiece for the event and allows people to immerse themselves in experience rooms and pods. These are designed to inspire visitors to create marketing ideas of their own and give insights into how to shape their future projects. Where? Tobacco Dock, London, UK. When? Held annually in October. How big? More than 4,000 marketers attended the 2018 Festival of Marketing, find out more here. 2. VivaTechnology What is it? Annual conference dedicated to start-ups and innovation. Inaugurated in 2016, VivaTechnology features decision-makers and tech leaders from some of the world’s largest companies, who gather to share their knowledge with attendees. The vision of the conference is to expand companies on an international scale by combining the latest digital innovations and technologies. There are keynote speakers from sector-leading companies, opportunities to...

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> It's a rookie mistake; assuming that once you've made that sale, your job is done. Take a look at our blog to help gain more repeat customers.

- Published: 2019-08-01
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-gain-more-repeat-customers/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Loyalty Cards

It’s a rookie mistake; assuming that once you’ve made that sale, your job is done. But what you do after a customer leaves your business is just as important as what you do to draw them there in the first place. And if you want happy folks to continue coming back, there are a few essentials you must consider. Check out these ideas for earning repeat customers. Building relationships Collecting a loyal base of repeat customers is primarily down to building relationships. It starts when your marketing efforts attract them to your company the first time, as well as how they’re treated during their initial transaction with you. And it certainly doesn’t end once they’ve paid for that first item and walked out the door. Continuing to cultivate that relationship will keep customers interested for future opportunities. How to do it Building customers’ trust and increasing the likelihood of future sales all comes down to great customer service. In a way, you should treat your customers like they’re your friends. Keep in touch with them, and show them respect as human beings; not just a source of revenue. In a nutshell, treat your customers exactly how you’d want other businesses to treat you. When a customer chooses to do business with you, express your appreciation each time. This will go a long way towards encouraging their repeat business. You don’t have to do anything extreme to show your thankfulness; even a follow up thank you email or card is sufficient...

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> Business Cards have been around since the days of ancient China. Learn about the history of the Business Card – from the 15th century to today.

- Published: 2019-07-29
- Modified: 2023-03-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/who-invented-business-cards/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

For hundreds of years, Business Cards have been an integral marketing tool for tradespeople and commerce. From the earliest origins in ancient China to the beginnings of what could be called recognisable Business Card design in Victorian times. We’re tracing the history of the Business Card and explaining how it rose from humble beginnings to become a staple of companies and professionals worldwide. When was the Business Card invented? The Business Card has roots dating back as far as 15th century China, according to this article in the Economist. The ancient Chinese used these primitive cards to let people know they were coming in advance of arriving at their home or place of work. This suggests the earliest Business Cards were used in the same way we use WhatsApp and Facebook messages today – as courtesy calls ahead of visiting a friend or an acquaintance. They were also used – more formally – to announce visiting royalty. These cards, produced ahead of a royal visit, were known as Meshi. They were presented with ceremonies still found in Business Card etiquette in contemporary China. Even today, the card is held with both hands between the thumb and forefinger and passed to the other person, who receives it in the same fashion. When did Business Cards start being widely used? The arrival of what became known as ‘trade cards’ in 17th century England saw square pieces of paper or card being used to advertise goods or services. Merchants handed out trade cards,...

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- Published: 2019-07-26
- Modified: 2019-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-celebrate-20-years-in-the-print-industry/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Formats: Video

Solopress celebrated it's 20 year anniversary in July 2019, with the company that was started by Aron Priest and Andy Smith in 1999 now one of the largest and fastest growing businesses in the print industry. To mark the occasion, MD Simon Cooper and COO Kevin Seaden took the time to present awards to long-serving team members who have helped to make Solopress what it is today. Along with certificates and commemorative plaques, award-winners also received Red Letter Days vouchers, giving them the chance to choose from a huge range of experiences for them to enjoy and tick off their bucket list. What's more, every member of the team also received a bottle of Solohop, our very own Solopress beer produced in partnership with local experts, The Leigh on Sea Brewing Company. We didn't forget about our customers either, running a 20% off site-wide sale on Monday which we subsequently extended to Tuesday due to popular demand! We would like to thank all of the team members and customers who have been with us on this remarkable journey over the last 20 years. We've experienced incredible growth during this time, but we're not planning on slowing down any time soon!

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> Are you looking for new ways to promote your restaurant? Take your burger shop to the next level with our guide on the top marketing ideas.

- Published: 2019-07-22
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/gourmet-burger-restaurant-marketing-tips/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> The quality of your nightclub flyers can make or break an event. Learn how to make nightclub flyers with our guide and ensure your dancefloor is packed.

- Published: 2019-07-20
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-create-a-nightclub-flyer/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

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> Solopress managing director Simon Cooper talks about his decision to acquire two HP Indigo 10000 digital presses.

- Published: 2019-07-18
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-invests-in-hp-indigo-10000-digital-presses/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Formats: Video

Solopress has no fewer than 7 Xerox iGen digital print presses. So why the need for yet more digital print capacity? According to Solopress Managing Director Simon Cooper, “One of the advantages that the Indigo presses will give us is that they print on B2 sheets, twice the size of the oversized A3 sheets that the iGen’s use. This means that we’ll be able to produce a lot more work in a shorter period of time through one print engine, making us more efficient. “In addition, a lot of our finishing equipment is geared up for B2 sheets as that’s the size we produce our litho print in. ” Which products will we print on these machines? We can produce pretty much everything we print digitally onto paper using the HP Indigo 10000s. That includes flyers & leaflets, business cards, brochures & booklets and more. What does this mean for our customers? The acquisition of these two new presses will provide several benefits to our customers. These include: Low prices. Increased efficiency will enable us to keep prices low on digital printed products. High quality. The print quality of the HP Indigo is market-leading, allowing us to maintain and improve on our high standards. Fast delivery. By printing more jobs over a shorter period – and in a format better suited for our finishing setup – we can offer next day delivery across an even wider range of products. The technical bit... The main features that the HP Indigo 10000’s...

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> Loyalty cards reward customers and encourage repeat business. Check out these ideas on why you should print loyalty cards for use in your shop or office.

- Published: 2019-07-15
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/why-print-loyalty-cards-for-your-business/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Loyalty Cards

Are you a business owner looking for another way to reach out to current and prospective clients? Loyalty Cards are a great way to reach out to those who are faithful to your brand, encourage new customers to come back and even advertise your company. Print loyalty cards for your business and you'll discover just how they can offer new opportunities to promote your products or services and develop greater rapport with those who give you their custom. 1. Reward customers Attracting customers through the door is hard enough, and even once you tackle that feat, getting them to come back can be a significant challenge. Research shows that 45% of first time customers don't go on to purchase again from a business they've visited. Even those who have come back a few times may be difficult to retain - brand loyalty is at an all-time low amongst certain demographics. As a result, smart business owners are looking for ways to say thanks to those who do return and keep them coming back. Loyalty cards are a great way to encourage and reward repeat business. By providing practical, tangible reasons for continuing to purchase a specific company's products or services, consumers are drawn to return. 2. Provide options Far more than just offering a free coffee, loyalty card schemes present business owners with the chance to offer a wide variety of rewards to their faithful clientele. Some examples include: Percentage discounts on services costing more than a specified amount Special...

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> How can flyers and leaflets drive sales for your business? We have 10 steps to make yours a great marketing tool.

- Published: 2019-07-11
- Modified: 2020-09-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-steps-to-flyers-and-leaflets-that-earn-business/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

In today’s world of social media, leaflets and flyers may seem a little ‘old hat’ for promoting your company, but when it comes to getting the word out, they can still be very effective. If you do it right, that is. Here, in 10 easy-to-follow steps, you’ll learn how creating leaflets and flyers can help generate business in a way online promotion just can’t match. 1. Choose a message Before you even think about working on the design, you need to know what it is you want to publicise. Do you want your flyer or leaflet to give a brief overview of your business? Do you want it to sell a specific service, or advertise a special offer or event? Knowing what you want to say is key to designing the perfect leaflet or flyer. 2. Identify your audience Consider who the leaflet is being aimed at. You should bear in mind: Where the audience is from – local, regional, national or global? Interests – what particular niche are you targeting? Needs – what would the reader look to learn from the hand-out? Information? Contact details? Accessibility – do some readers have specific needs around colour schemes, text spacing, and fonts? Information format – paragraphs, bullet points, images, or a bit of everything? 3. Leaflet or flyer? Next, you need to know how much you want to say. This will determine whether a flyer (which is a sheet of single- or double-sided paper) or leaflet (generally a piece of folded...

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> Hartes Beauty was struggling to get noticed inside a local gym. See how Solopress’ products helped the salon promote its brand and attract new customers.

- Published: 2019-07-08
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/hartes-beauty-promoting-a-brand-from-a-secluded-location/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Business Cards, Flyers & Leaflets, Loyalty Cards, Posters, Roller Banners

Hidden inside a gym, Hartes Beauty was struggling to advertise its services and bring in new customers. With our help, the salon has increased brand awareness – attracting and retaining new clients. Introducing Hartes Beauty Hartes Beauty is a boutique salon in Rochford, Essex. Based inside a gym, the salon offers treatments ranging from nail care to festival makeup. Owner Danielle manages the business single-handedly – from appointments and reordering stock to social media. But she faced some big challenges. Danielle came to Solopress seeking marketing products to improve her visibility – both inside the gym and in the town and wider area. What challenges has Hartes faced? This small beauty salon hidden inside a gym struggled to make itself heard. Limited by its position away from the busy high streets, which offer much greater visibility, and competing with spas and their vast services, Hartes Beauty faced a real challenge in brand awareness. Owner Danielle identifies her biggest challenge as ‘trying to entice new clients to use my beauty salon if they are not a gym member’. So, the main problem is attracting clients from outside the gym. But Danielle also wanted help to inspire existing gym members to become salon clients. The salon is tucked out of sight of the main gym area, so many members may visit for a workout without even seeing it. How Solopress helped Limited by her secluded location, Danielle decided to invest in print marketing. She originally chose Solopress as ‘the best printing company...

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> Are you eager to attract new leads? Increase conversions on your website? Grow your social media following? Retain loyal customers with gratitude marketing.

- Published: 2019-06-27
- Modified: 2019-06-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-value-of-gratitude-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Are you eager to attract new leads? Increase conversions on your website? Grow your social media following? Retain loyal customers? A powerful technique can help you do all that; just say thank you! Gratitude marketing is the art of letting your customers know you genuinely appreciate them. As a result of practicing it consistently, your business will start reaping the benefits. Gratitude is a powerful tactic for expanding your customer base; showing genuine human emotion such as thankfulness works wonders to humanise your brand and encourage people to connect with you. The focus With gratitude marketing, the emphasis is placed not on advertising and promotions with the pure intent of generating sales, but of making authentic connections with customers. Building rapport and retaining clients is the aim, leading them to form strong, lasting connections with brands. As mentioned, gratitude marketing can lead to an increase in business. It is also a great way to get free word-of-mouth promotions. It requires excellent communications between businesses and their clients. Gratitude marketing If you’re stuck thinking of ways to get started on gratitude marketing, here are a few ideas that might spark your creativity. Say thank you on your website, when an order is placed. This is a great opportunity to simply let your customers know you appreciate them. You might even want to consider offering an incentive at this point to keep them coming back, such as a discount coupon code for their next order. A “thank you screen” on your website...

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> Looking for loyalty card design inspiration? Need some tips on membership card design? Check out 10 of our favourites to inspire your own artwork

- Published: 2019-06-26
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/10-cool-membership-card-designs/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Loyalty Cards

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> Tattoo shop marketing is about more than Instagram. Explore our tattoo shop advertising ideas to take your promotional activity beyond the gram.

- Published: 2019-06-19
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/tattoo-shop-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Leading UK online printer Solopress adds two Agfa Anapurna H2500i LED hybrid wide-format presses, increasing the company's wide-format printing options.

- Published: 2019-06-19
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-goes-wide-with-agfa-anapurna-investment/
- Categories: Solopress News
- Formats: Video

With demand for wide-format print on the rise – both on rigid board as well as flexible materials – it was time for Solopress to take a look at increasing our capabilities yet further. In order to meet demand, our requirement was to acquire a versatile press with the capacity to print onto just about any material. We also wanted to be able to print these materials on a wider scale than we’d been able to manage before. Doubling Up We needed a high-quality hybrid machine, and the Agfa Anapurna H2500i LED hybrid wide-format press was so well suited to our requirements, we bought two of them! This acquisition was part of an investment plan that also included the purchase of two HP Indigo 10000 digital presses and a Kongsberg C Edge cutting table. Our two new Agfa Anapurna H2500i presses were delivered and installed in May 2019, and have been running 24 hours a day, 6 days a week ever since. They run at twice the speed and half the cost of our previous wide-format machines, partly due to Agfa’s unique Thin Ink Layer Technology, which is great news both for us and for our customers. Efficiency, Quality and Reliability Speaking about the investment, managing director Simon Cooper said: “We decided to bring in the Agfa Anapurnas as they provide the efficiency, quality and reliability we need for our customers. “Our wide-format work is a fast-growing area of the business. This equipment gives us the overall productivity we need...

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> Flyers have been used by everyone from punk bands to campaigning politicians. But are flyers still effective in the digital age? We say yes – find out why.

- Published: 2019-06-17
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/are-flyers-still-effective/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

For decades, Flyers have been used, with great success, to help businesses promote their products and services. But are Flyers effective in the digital age? Official DMA stats suggest they are, showing almost 50% of people read addressed mail and more than 60% read door drops. Let’s delve deeper into what makes them a priceless marketing tool. What is a flyer? A Flyer is a paper advertisement, often printed in bulk for distribution on a large scale in public places, through the post or directly handed out. The purpose of a Leaflet is often to promote a business, service or event. We’ve outlined the door drop and addressed mail statistics, but what do these terms mean? These are the two main types of Flyers: Door drops – These Flyers don’t have an address and aren’t addressed to a ‘householder’ or ‘occupant’. Addressed mail – This type of Flyer is a mail item that is addressed to a specific individual in the household. History of Flyers and Leaflets The history of Flyers goes back many years and is a fascinating story. Before the invention of printing, rich merchants in Renaissance Italy would commit important information to handwritten paper newsletters. These would be passed around, detailing the latest news on wars and the economy. As soon as printing was invented, campaigners began to use printed materials to communicate. Flyers and Leaflets were also used in the battle for Women’s Suffrage in the early 1900s when activists campaigned for the female vote. Improving...

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> Celebrity Business Cards are a great inspiration. Learn from politicians and business leaders to create your own business card - from Lady Gaga to Barack Obama.

- Published: 2019-06-12
- Modified: 2023-03-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/six-famous-business-cards-from-gaga-to-obama/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

Even celebrities use Business Cards. Pick up some tips from the likes of Barack Obama and Lady Gaga with our run-down of the world’s most famous Business Cards. 1. Lady Gaga Who are they? Lady Gaga is the stage name for American pop-star and actress Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta. She was also the creative director at Polaroid for four years. Most famous for: Being Lady Gaga. Writer of songs such as Poker Face and Shallow – the multi-award-winning song that accompanied A Star Is Born, in which she also starred in the lead role. What does their Business Card look like? Image Source: https://www. theguardian. com Lady Gaga’s Business Card features the recognisable Polaroid logo and a simple black type on a crisp white background. What information does it include? This card is kept simple, with barely any information apart from the company, her name and her position. Her address features below, but is scribbled out due to her fame. She also uses her stage name rather than her birth name, which fits the company’s message of originality. Key takeaway... Simple cards can work if you have an instantly recognisable brand name, but can be risky if the messaging gets lost on the receiver. At Solopress we recommend you carefully consider what should be included on your Business Card to make an impression. 2. Walt Disney Who are they? Cartoonist, animator, voice actor and film producer. Most famous for: Walt Disney was a pioneer of the American animation industry and...

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> Think outside the box with your marketing with an effective postcard design. Check out these inspiring postcard ideas and start designing your own today.

- Published: 2019-06-08
- Modified: 2021-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/postcards-trendy-cool-design/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Postcards

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> Thousands of school children from around the UK take part in Solopress' Make Your Mark competition, winning custom-made bookmarks and books for their class.

- Published: 2019-05-07
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/school-children-make-their-mark-with-solopress-competition/
- Categories: Solopress News

Thousands of school children from around the UK will not need to worry about losing their place in their favourite book anymore following the success of our recent Make Your Mark competition. We launched the competition in the run up to World Book Day. We invited children from infant and primary schools to design a bookmark based on their favourite book and to send us their artwork. From all of the entries we received we drew out some lucky winners. We then selected one bookmark from each winning class to have their design professional printed by our team here at Solopress, one for every child in each class to receive. "A brilliant way to encourage and foster children's love for reading" We received some amazing feedback from teachers on how the children in their classes found taking part in the activity. Rizwanah Ramankhan from The New North Academy in Islington said: “The children definitely enjoyed taking part in the competition. They were able to reflect on book genres they are interested in and share them with their classmates which was really beneficial. “It was also amazing as they were able to bring some of their favourite characters to life through drawing! ” Jerin Khanim from Olga Primary School in Tower Hamlets added: “The children were all eager to enter the competition and put a lot of effort and thought into their drafts and then final designs. “The competition was a brilliant way to encourage children's love for reading - something...

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> From futuristic TVs to fantastic automobiles. Trade shows are where the hottest new products debut. We list 7 of the best on the planet.

- Published: 2019-05-06
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/the-worlds-biggest-trade-shows-revealed/
- Categories: Business & Marketing, Exhibitions & Trade Shows
- Tags: Exhibitions

CES in Las Vegas. The International Motor Show in Geneva. Modern trade shows are big business – huge events with multimillion-pound budgets and stands the size of football pitches – backed up by a solid exhibition marketing plan, no doubt. We’ve brought together 7 of the world’s largest trade shows to celebrate this new rock and roll and to inspire you to get ready for your next (or even first) trade show. CES (Consumer Electronics Show) What is it? The world’s biggest technology conference. Set in the desert landscape of Las Vegas, CES is where the year’s biggest tech makes its debut. Expect to see Samsung, Sony and LG all jostling for space with TVs that offer eye-watering picture quality. CES is owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association, the trade association that represents the $398 billion US consumer tech industry. CES launched around 50 years ago. Lots has changed since then though. Where? Las Vegas Convention Centre, Las Vegas, USA When? Held annually in January How big? Over 180,000 attendees, 4,400+ exhibitors, 1,000 speakers Find out more CONEXPO-CON/AGG What is it? The largest construction trade show in the US. Muddy boots, hi-vis jackets and ridiculously powerful tools and diggers take centre stage at one of the world’s biggest construction trade shows. CONEXPO-CON/AGG represents asphalt, aggregates, concrete, earthmoving and more to connect professionals from every major sector of construction. Where? Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, USA When? Every three years How big? 2,800 exhibitors, 150 education sessions Find...

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> Don't let your business go into 'holiday mode' with these summer marketing tips that will keep drawing in the customers.

- Published: 2019-05-06
- Modified: 2019-07-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/summer-marketing-tips/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Check out 12 ways that Stickers can form part of your marketing campaigns and help you business to stand out from the crowd

- Published: 2019-05-05
- Modified: 2024-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/stickers-business-tips/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Stickers & Labels

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> Political parties have embraced digital. But print is still the bedrock of any election campaign. Explore the advantages of offline marketing for politics.

- Published: 2019-04-30
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/why-print-matters-for-political-campaigns/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Think of political campaigns. What images spring to mind? Crowds of people waving placards? Local councillors knocking on your door? Huge posters emblazoned with manifesto messages – such as Barack Obama’s famous ‘Hope’ poster... Why do we remember such things? These iconic images fill our newspapers and TV screens, our billboards and buses. They become the very fabric of our social and cultural history. From Brexit today, to Barack Obama yesterday. The one constant of all this? Print. Digital is hugely important to political campaigning. But with print you can create something tangible – something your supporters can hold over their heads or pin in their windows. Explore this and other advantages of offline marketing – informed by creative experts, Professor of the Creative Industries Phil Cleaver, and Radim Malinic, creative director at Brand Nu. Or dive straight into our dedicated election printing page today. Show your commitment with leaflets Local councillors regularly hand-deliver printed leaflets within their ward, to keep residents informed about what they’ve been doing - both in the run up to an election and throughout the year. This shows they’re active in the community all-year-round. Hand-delivering leaflets also provides the chance to speak with voters. More impactful than unopened emails A leaflet dropping through the door can have a much greater impact than an unopened email. Someone will at least pick it up from the floor. Get the design and content right and hopefully they’ll read the leaflet to find out more about your campaign. People...

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> Leaflets can help your product, service or event connect with your audience at the right place and at the right time. Find out how with our guide.

- Published: 2019-04-23
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-advantages-of-leaflets/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Leaflets can grab attention in ways digital marketing like tweets and emails cannot. When produced and distributed effectively, leaflets help you land the right messages, with the right audience, at the right time. Leaflets can: Showcase your product or service to new customers Increase attendance for your events and exhibitions Frame your key USPs in digestible format Let’s discover the top 10 advantages leaflets can provide to businesses, organisations and individuals. 1. Long-term event promotion One-sided flyers tend to be the go-to format for promoting the date, time and venue of an event. Leaflets go a step further – providing the opportunity to capture your audience’s interest with the who, what and why of your event. Promoting a festival? List your performers, events and activities. Advertising an art exhibition? Go in-depth on the meaning of the work. Leaflets are conversation-starters that change hands – spreading your message way beyond your target market. Top tip: Craft messaging that urges readers to act – for example, buying a ticket. Direct them to a ticketing website by embedding a QR code. 2. Succinctly frame your key messages Whether you’re a florist or a FTSE 100-listed firm, leaflets are a powerful way of communicating your messages. In a sales pitch, a leaflet could be your ‘leave behind’ summary of why your team has what it takes for the job. Hand it over to your prospect after the pitch. Giving them something to mull over post-meeting might help seal the deal. Leaflets are also invaluable...

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> Business Cards are effective at networking events, client meetings and when you’re out and about. Our guide details 10 key advantages.

- Published: 2019-04-17
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-advantages-of-business-cards/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Business Cards

Digital has transformed how we make business connections. But in the age of LinkedIn, are Business Cards still effective? Absolutely. Here are 10 benefits of Business Cards that shouldn't be forgotten... 1. Affordable way to promote your brand Cheap Business Cards can be bulk ordered for a relatively low cost. The number you print is flexible – vary the quantity depending on how many you’re likely to use day-to-day. Say you’re heading to a trade show one month, and you can increase your order at short notice. It’s also cost-effective to print for multiple people but with different names – for example, your sales team. 2. Fantastic for events and exhibitions Exhibitions and trade shows provide the perfect opportunity to promote your brand and build your contact base. Such events are perfect for meeting new contacts and making sales. But often potential leads go away to think about whether to buy or take things further – this is where exchanging Business Card is invaluable, ensuring they have your contact details should they want to get in touch. Plus, if you’re an exhibitor at a show, they take up zero space on your stand and give people a reminder of your brand to take away with them. 3. Something tangible – the business equivalent of vinyl records People are increasingly favouring hard copies. Something they can hold and feel. Look at the rise in book sales and the ongoing vinyl revival. Business Cards are part of this analogue renaissance. They’re a...

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> One of the biggest challenges beauty businesses face is marketing. Attract new customers and stand out with these top tips for nail salon marketing.

- Published: 2019-04-16
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-your-nail-salon/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Personal, tangible and trustworthy, discover the top 10 advantages of offline marketing. Boost your product launch, event or store opening with Solopress.

- Published: 2019-04-13
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-advantages-of-offline-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Businesses are increasingly using print to complement their digital marketing, with print advertising rising for the first time since 2010 – according to latest research. To reflect this shift in trends, we’ve compiled a list of the top advantages of offline marketing. 1. Easily-ordered at short notice When you’re preparing for a trade show or product launch, there are many moving parts. Print materials can be designed and ordered with quick turn-around times – ideal for last-minute events and time-limited promotions, or if you simply forgot to order earlier. 2. Perfect for political campaigns Print marketing materials are a cornerstone of any political campaign – alongside digital methods like Facebook advertising and email. Both local and national parties can reap the benefits of print marketing in the run-up to an election, creating a buzz around their campaign. There are several ways to promote your campaign. From informational leaflets and flyers to personalised letters – when combined with clever distribution you can frame the right messages to the right people at the right time. 3. Order exactly what you need When you choose print marketing, you’re in control over how much you order. You can select the quantity you need, which means less paper wastage and no excess stock stored on your premises. Not only that, but it’s a smarter way of spending your marketing budget. For example, you can save the money you would have spent on 50 leaflets that wouldn’t be handed out on 25 brochures that would. 4....

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> Election Leaflets can be inspiring with the right design. Get some inspiration from our list of 7 examples of how to write an election Leaflet. Who gets your vote?

- Published: 2019-04-11
- Modified: 2022-06-14
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/election-leaflets-best-design-examples/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

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> Follow our Leaflet distribution guide to reach the right people at the right time with your message. Learn how to distribute Leaflets and Flyers today.

- Published: 2019-03-27
- Modified: 2022-09-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-best-ways-to-distribute-your-leaflets-and-flyers/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Leaflets and Flyers are one of the best and most cost-effective types of advertising. But to get the most impact from them you need a solid Leaflet distribution strategy. This will help you to establish... How you distribute your Leaflets Where and when you’ll put them out Who will help you get your message out there Learn how to distribute Leaflets with our step-by-step guide. How can I distribute my Leaflets and Flyers? First off, you need to choose the right company to distribute your Leaflets, if you’re not handling this internally. Start by Googling ‘Leaflet distribution’, along with the postcode(s) for where you intend to distribute your Flyers or Leaflets. Your search will typically throw up a few different providers offering three main distribution services: Door-to-door The classic way to get a Leaflet and Flyer into the hands of your customers is via their letterboxes through a door drop. Some 60. 5% of household occupants would read a Leaflet posted through their door – Direct Marketing Association. Things to consider with door to door Leaflet distribution: Location: Targeting specific streets and areas? Check the company will tailor their deliveries to your needs. Cost: With slightly cheaper plans your Leaflet or Flyer will likely be delivered with other companies’ Leaflets and Flyers. If keeping costs down is a priority for you, consider ordering cheap Flyer printing. Local press: Also consider the option to distribute your Leaflets or Flyers inside any free local newspapers delivered to houses. Face-to-face Your Leaflets and...

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> From logos to fonts, colours and graphics – redefine your company image and transform your promotional output with our guide to rebranding.

- Published: 2019-03-06
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-rebrand-your-business/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Branding

Rebranding your business is about more than writing a new mission statement. It’s redesigning your logo, changing your colours, picking a different font and reflecting this in your promotional assets. We’ve teamed up with two branding experts to provide you with the actionable steps to create a new visual identity for your company. Radim Malinic is an award-winning freelance creative director and graphic designer, based in London. He’ll be offering tips alongside Phil Cleaver, Professor in Creative Industries at the School of Art and Design at Middlesex University. Who are you? Before you do anything, define who you are as a business. This is essential to the rebranding process, as it informs the image you want to put across to your customers. All businesses are customer-centric, aiming to give value for money and provide a useful product or service. But to make your rebranding personal to your company, ask yourself a few questions: Who are your audience? Your client base and target audience are the lifeblood of your business. It makes sense to keep them in mind when rebranding, as they’re primarily why you’re doing it. Ask yourself what they would be most receptive to and appreciate from your brand revamp. Phil believes elements such as logos are crucial in the effectiveness of a company’s branding: “The symbol must perform successfully against a set of listed qualities to gain them the audience they need,” he says. What is your industry? Certain branding elements suit certain industries. To differentiate yourself from...

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> 2019 will see several design trends make a big impact on business branding. Here are creative industries professor Phil Cleaver’s top five.

- Published: 2019-03-06
- Modified: 2019-06-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/5-amazing-design-trends-for-2019/
- Categories: Art & Design

Design trends play a major part in shaping how successful brands promote themselves. But what will design bring us in 2019? We asked Phil Cleaver, professor in Creative Industries at Middlesex University and Yellow Pencil winner, to predict his five biggest design trends for this year. 1. Experiential branding Experiential branding has brought businesses to life in recent years. The concept is all about interacting with people on a sensory level. Swap traditional advertising for immersive experiences to inspire consumers to invest in your brand. This can take many forms, from interactive campaigns to creative showcases – anything where your consumers are actively engaging or taking part. Get to the heart of what motivates your target consumer and attempt to develop a positive emotional attachment. Phil says: “A strong brand identity can no longer exist purely visually. An effective brand targets as many of the human senses as possible to root themselves firmly in our memory. Ultimately, the brand has to exist beyond the logo and take on forms that transcend its visual approach. ” 2. Animation kinetic branding Animated or kinetic branding has countless design possibilities in the digital era. Like experiential branding, kinetic pushes the boundaries – this time by using moving images and animations in logos and advertising. These lifelike representations of a brand aim to capture the consumer’s attention. Kinetic design is in its infancy and is yet to be widely adopted. Getting ahead of the trend can help your brand stand out against competitors. Phil...

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> From birthday wishes to giving thanks, greeting cards are perfect for any occasion. Follow our instructive guide and discover inspiring ideas at Solopress.

- Published: 2019-02-14
- Modified: 2021-11-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/inspiring-greeting-card-ideas-for-any-occasion/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Greeting Cards

Whether you’re wishing someone a happy birthday or congratulating them on a recent achievement, personalised greeting cards are perfect for any special occasion. They allow you to let your creative flair run wild and create a card that will leave a lasting impression on your lucky recipient. Discover what goes into designing the perfect greeting card and get some helpful design ideas to inspire your next set of cards too. Setting the designs There are several design elements that can be customised to create your card, from the heartfelt message to the paper type. Discover how each can be adapted for any occasion below. The wording Arguably, the wording is most important element of any personalised card. It’s what your recipient will hold onto most and should be tailored specifically for the occasion. For thank you cards, express your gratitude and make them feel appreciated. While for birthdays, give them a feeling of joy and warmth when they open your card and see your bubbly message. The basic meaning of the card should be printed on the front, such as ‘thank you’ or ‘happy birthday’, with the inside free for you to personalise for the individual. The key is, keep it short and sweet, you can add any additional writing later to tailor your message even further. The graphics and imagery Accompanied by the ideal choice of wording, the right graphics and imagery can give your greeting card the wow factor. Keep in mind the meaning of the card, the...

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> Print-industry expert Simon Cooper joins Solopress as managing director in February 2019.

- Published: 2019-02-08
- Modified: 2022-08-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/simon-cooper-to-join-solopress-as-managing-director/
- Categories: Solopress News

Senior industry expert Simon Cooper will join Solopress as managing director in February 2019 as part of the planned transition of Solopress’ founders Aron Priest and Andy Smith to new roles. With long-term executive roles at Cimpress subsidiaries Tradeprint and Exaprint, Cooper is one of the most experienced online printing executives in the UK. Michael Fries, CEO of the Onlineprinters Group which Solopress is part of, commented on the development: “We are very happy to have Simon join the Onlineprinters family. With his experience in printing and e-commerce, his leadership skills and a strong entrepreneurial background, Simon will be key in developing and growing Solopress. ” Simon Cooper, new Managing Director at Solopress Business Development Two years after the acquisition of Solopress by the Onlineprinters Group, Solopress has strengthened its market position as a UK market leader in online printing. The Essex-based company has been successfully integrated into the Onlineprinters Group. Through scaling of the production within the group, joint procurement of consumables and technology as well as investment in software, equipment and infrastructure, Solopress has improved its competitive edge. A large number of new customers have been gained through the expansion of products and services. Simon Cooper, the new managing director of Solopress, states: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Solopress as I’ve long admired the brand and their approach to the market. Their e-commerce shop and 24-hour turnaround times have long been the envy of the industry and I am delighted to now have a chance to join...

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> Loyalty cards can do wonders for your brand, boosting repeat sales and customer satisfaction. Discover their five biggest benefits and create yours today.

- Published: 2019-02-01
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/5-benefits-of-loyalty-cards-for-businesses/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Loyalty Cards

Loyalty Cards can be an invaluable asset to your business - and now the figures are in to prove it. According to a recent study by YouGov, three-quarters of British consumers are now signed onto a loyalty scheme. So, what is the secret to their success? And why should brands use them? The answer to both is simple; by rewarding the customer for shopping with your brand with a loyalty programme, you increase the chances of them remaining loyal to your business – helping to drive repeat business. These aren’t the only benefits though. There is a wealth of reasons why you should consider creating a scheme for your business. This post looks to explore the top five. But first, a quick introduction on how loyalty cards began. How did loyalty cards start? The idea of rewarding customers has been around for a while now, but it wasn’t until 1995 that the first loyalty card appeared in the UK retail industry. Tesco Clubcard led the way, creating a personalised discount scheme to generate loyalty to the brand. It quickly began to pay off, with an incredible 28% increase of spending for card holders just a year later. Soon other big brands caught on, and today almost all big businesses offer some sort of loyalty programme. 1. Establishes a long-term customer-brand relationship The premise of a loyalty scheme is to attract customers back to your business for repeat custom, using offers and deals to forge a long-lasting relationship. This practise is...

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> Announce your upcoming wedding to your friends and family in style with a set of memorable save the date cards. Discover our ideas and get inspired here.

- Published: 2019-01-31
- Modified: 2023-06-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/save-the-date-card-ideas/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Invitations

Planning for your wedding can be a fun and inspiring experience – think of it as a starting block on the wonderful journey you’re about to take. Save the date cards can be a fantastic way to begin the build-up to your big day and build anticipation for those invited - ensuring your most treasured loved ones add the date to their calendars. Help kick-start your wedding celebrations with our guide to how to create the perfect save the date card. What is a save the date card? A save the date card is sent six to twelve months before your wedding to give your guests key information about the day. This typically includes the bride and groom’s names, date of the wedding and the location. Usually, this is followed-up with a formal invitation closer the to the date which gives the finer details. Top save the date card tips There are lots of elements to consider for your save the date cards, from the design to when to send them out, here’s our top save the date etiquette tips. Give your guests enough notice: Aim to send your cards out around six months before the big day for domestic weddings in the UK and twelve months if you’re getting married overseas. Follow up with a formal invitation around one to two months before the wedding. Know your guestlist: Make sure you finalise your guestlist before mailing your save the dates. Once sent, this cements your chosen invitees for the...

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- Published: 2019-01-21
- Modified: 2020-06-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-co-founder-voted-as-the-peoples-choice/
- Categories: Print Industry News, Solopress News

We're excited to announce that Aron has come in top place in the people's vote as part of the industry-recognised commendation, Printweek's 'Power 100'. We'd like to say a huge thank you to every one of you for taking time out of your busy schedules to cast your vote for Aron. Finding out just days before Christmas, this overwhelming support rounded Aron's year off perfectly. Starting from humble beginnings with Andy Smith many years ago, this recognition reinforces the values that Solopress was built on and still stand for today. The moment Aron heard the news, he jumped at the chance to share his gratitude with all of you who felt so strongly as to cement his number one spot with your vote. Give Aron's thank you a watch below. What is 'Power 100'? Power 100 is an annual ranking produced by Printweek of the industry’s most influential individuals. Printweek is a news outlet focusing exclusively on the print trade and the people, businesses and suppliers who form the industry. The ranking consists of two parts, one part is the public vote and the other part consists of the individuals that Printweek personally recognises. Both commendations are highly sought after and are very prestigious, especially in an industry as competitive as print. As well as placing top for the people's choice, Aron also came in at 63 over hundreds of others for Printweek's choice.

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> Effectively share the message of your next campaign by learning how to write a Leaflet with our six-step guide – with helpful dos and don’ts.

- Published: 2018-12-20
- Modified: 2022-06-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-write-a-leaflet/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Business Leaflets can highlight the benefits of your latest product, promo or showpiece event – placing your message squarely in front of your audience. But what makes a Leaflet campaign successful? Clever content, succinct messaging and a solid tone of voice are all important. Explore how to write a Leaflet in six simple steps: Step 1: Establish your own tone of voice Tone of voice is summed up as the way in which a brand communicates with its customers and the wider world. All content you create – from press ads and blog posts to site copy and social media – must sound consistent in terms of words used, sentence structure, chattiness, cultural references etc. The most successful brands totally master tone of voice. Think about the way Apple, for example, speaks. Or the offbeat charm of Innocent smoothies – all Fruit Towers and the Banana Phone. Consider the language your target audience will be most receptive to and use this to pique their interest with convincing and compelling wording that’s true to your brand. Step 2: Create eye-catching headlines We are bombarded with hundreds of marketing messages every day. So how can your message rise above the background noise? Grab the attention of your audience with a headline that’s catchy, relevant, and benefit-led. One key tip is to place the main benefit of whatever you’re advertising in the headline, surrounded by supporting language. This is called benefit-led. For example: Sale: lead with the offer itself Event: use the details...

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> Roller banners are an excellent way to promote your event or trade show. Find the right size for your needs at Solopress.

- Published: 2018-12-17
- Modified: 2022-04-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-guide-to-roller-banners/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Roller Banners

Tall, bold and attention grabbing – roller banners can help advertise your product or services at your next event, conference or trade show. Our guide aims to answer some key questions to help you find the right roller banner option. Quick links What is a roller banner? Why choose a roller banner? Pull up roller banners L banners Exhibition stands Pop-up stands Pop-up towers Desktop banners Roller banner sizes What is a roller banner? Roller banners are portable marketing tools you often see at events or conferences. Your messaging is printed on high-quality canvas attached to a robust metal stand. Why choose a roller banner? To grab your customers’ attention. Perfect for advertising an upcoming event or introducing a special offer, roller banners are... Foldable and lightweight. Easy to transport from the office to the trade show Fully customisable. Personalise with your offers and messaging Attention-grabbing. Bright, bold and eye-catching designs Affordable. Options to suit every budget and need – from one-off to long-term use Flexible. Coming in a range of roller banner sizes and designs Pull up roller banners: the popular option The most common type of roller banner. Its name refers to the way the canvas is pulled up from the stand, rolling out to present your message. These banners feature your branding on a 225mic grey canvas, held in place with an aluminium frame. They also come with a carry bag, so you can easily transfer your banner from place to place and safely store it for...

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> Create buzz around your products and services with 10 Christmas marketing tips. Get the ideas today.

- Published: 2018-12-10
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/10-christmas-marketing-ideas/
- Categories: Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

Whether it’s the giving of gifts or sharing a specially prepared meal, Christmas tends to bring out the big spenders. But creating a buzz around your products and services is more difficult at this time of the year – when every brand and business is clamouring for people’s attention. Here are 10 marketing ideas to promote your business, products and services this Christmas. 1. Build some buzz with teasers The key to an effective campaign is keeping the ‘Christmas creep’ in moderation. If you’re lining up a strong promotion, keep customers guessing with a few subtle hints about what you have planned during the period. Build some buzz around one big reveal such as a brand-new landing page, complete with special offers. 2. Create gift guides to keep people engaged Create user-focused gift guides that highlight the features and benefits of your products and services through well-written copy and clever design. Combine digital and paper versions to take the message of your key products and discount deals to your audience – whether through Google or the Royal Mail. 3. ‘Pop-up’ a promo area in store An experiential pop-up style area in-store can create buzz and attract customers to your key products. Have well-briefed members of staff on the stand to talk through key product benefits and answer questions. Order a roller banner display to draw customers’ attention and match with some suitably attractive posters to keep customers on tenterhooks ahead of launch day. 4. Turn heads with promotional packaging For...

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- Published: 2018-11-29
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-designer-self-publishes-childrens-book/
- Categories: Solopress News

We're incredibly proud to announce that one of our very own has written, illustrated and published a children's book 'The Book Mites and the Spider'. Matt Bruty has a wealth of experience within the design industry from Illustration to Graphic Design and we're pleased to have talented individuals reach their ambitions in our midst. Having recently written and published his Paperback Book, Matt commented: "I've always wanted to write a book since as long as I can remember. When my own kids came along I started seeing the shows they would watch and something clicked in my head and I got to work. I felt there wasn't a lot of personality or variation out there so, I thought that characters living in a bookcase would be a great vehicle for a series. Since then I've built off of the idea and the Book Mites were born". Creating a children's book Of course, creating a book is long and hard work that doesn't get done by itself. Usually, a team consists of illustrators, writers and a publisher but, Matt took all of these roles upon himself. Hearing more from Matt he said: "This book took 6 years of late nights off and on. It was never something I was in a rush to finish, it was more of a passion project in my spare time. I actually almost completely finished the book twice, but I wasn't completely happy with it, so I rewrote and reworked my illustration style. My youngest child...

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> Leaflets still have an important part to play in a successful marketing strategy. Read our simple guide and discover the variety of Leaflets available.

- Published: 2018-11-26
- Modified: 2022-06-15
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-guide-to-leaflet-sizes-styles-and-paper-types/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Leaflet printing may seem like an old-school form of advertising, but they’ve still got an important part to play in your marketing strategy. Easy to read, distribute and visually pleasing, Leaflets come with countless benefits. Creating a Leaflet tailored to your business is a fantastic way of directly promoting your brand. They allow you to target and distribute your message to a wide audience, helping your latest campaign to make a bigger impact. Plus, Leaflets are a cost-effective marketing tool that gives your customers all the information they need in one handy place. Read our simple guide below and discover the variety of Leaflet sizes, styles and paper types available. Leaflet styles There are several different Leaflet styles available that you can use for your next promotion. Whether you want to spread the word about your company or advertise a special event, the right type of Leaflet ensures your recipients have all the information they need – helping you get the most out of your marketing efforts. Flat: A sheet of paper printed either single or double-sided. This classic format of Leaflet printing is the most popular due to its simplicity in design and print. Folded: Created in a concertina style, a Folded Leaflet has heaps of benefits. It can display lots of information and imagery and comes with a versatile selection of folding styles. Folding styles for Folded Leaflets include: Half Fold: The paper is simply divided into two equal sections. For example, an A5 Half Fold Leaflet will...

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> Discover the basics about flyers, from the sizes available to the materials they’re printed on. Read online at Solopress.

- Published: 2018-11-15
- Modified: 2022-06-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/a-guide-to-flyer-sizes-dimensions/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets

Flyer printing is one of the simplest – and most effective – forms of advertising. They’re cost-effective, uncomplicated to design and easy to distribute by hand. Plus, it’s simple to print Flyers to promote your business, with an extensive collection of different Flyer sizes and paper types available. Here are all the Flyer basics you need to know before placing an order. Flyer sizes Once you’ve decided Flyers are the perfect choice for your next promotional push, it’s best practice to decide what size you want your Flyer to be. Do you want to print A5 Flyers, standard-sized in the UK and frequently seen dropping through your letterbox to notify people about products, services and events? Perhaps an A6 Flyer would be better suited to you if you’re looking for something smaller to slot into a goody bag at a trade show? Or maybe a small Flyer is no good for your customers, and instead, a large format A3 Flyer is what you need to get your message across with maximum impact? Check out the most common Flyer paper sizes below in our size guide: Flyer size Size in cm Size in mm Size in inches A3 29. 7 x 42. 0 297 x 420 11. 7 x 16. 5 A4 21 x 29. 7 210 x 297 8. 3 x 11. 7 A5 14. 8 x 21 148 x 210 5. 8 x 8. 3 A6 10. 5 x 14. 8 105 x 148 4. 1 x 5. 8...

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> In October 2018, Solopress raised £1,951 for the UK's leading breast cancer charity, Breast Cancer Now, through their Wear It Pink fundraising campaign.

- Published: 2018-10-29
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-raise-1951-for-wear-it-pink/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Solopress News

What is Wear It Pink? Wear It Pink is one of the biggest and most recognised fundraising events in the UK. Falling right in the midst of breast cancer awareness month, thousands of people in offices, schools and their communities all take part to raise money for the UK's largest breast cancer charity. All of the funding Wear It Pink receives goes directly to life-saving treatments and research on how to further develop our understanding of the disease and ways to prevent it. So for such a good cause, it was the perfect fit for Solopress. The big day Our Recruitment & HR team enjoying the pink festivities After weeks of planning the big day finally arrived for us all to wear pink. We had plenty of activities planned to raise money including a cake bake sale, pink-themed games and activities, wearing pink clothing and donating £1 from every single transaction we recieved on the day. The day was a big success with a great buzz around all of our sites. With plenty of people wearing pink, eating cake and contributing to the cause, it was great to be able to take part in such an event on a company-wide scale. Wear It Pink is a cause close to some of our staff's hearts so being able to contribute in some way to help fight back was a privilege for the for us. The cakes went down a treat, we managed to get through pretty much all of them by...

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> Throwing a spooky party? Discover inspiring Halloween invitation ideas for every type of bash at Solopress.

- Published: 2018-10-19
- Modified: 2018-10-19
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/inspiring-halloween-party-invitation-ideas/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Invitations

From carving pumpkins to watching scary movies, Halloween is a mystical time of year and throwing a party is a great way to celebrate this spooky occasion. But before you start decorating your haunted home or preparing everyone’s terrifying costumes, create the perfect Halloween party invites to set the theme of your event. If you need some inspiration, we’ve put together some Halloween party invitation ideas to help spark your imagination. Halloween invite design ideas Choose a classic design Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a monstrous bash, opting for a traditional Halloween invite lets your guests know exactly what to expect. Choose from an array of traditional colours, such as orange, green and black. Match with images synonymous with the holiday such as pumpkins, bats and wicked witches, then add your event details for a clear, simple invite everyone will love. Finish with matt lamination paper for a stylish and prominent appearance. Create a monochrome invite: Monochrome invitations are perfect for a bold finish which will have a big impact this Halloween. Use a black backdrop and feature white silhouettes such as ghosts and cobwebs for a bone-chilling effect. Pair with big, bold text such as ‘Halloween’ or ‘Haunted House’ and print on spot UV matt laminated paper to add a contrast in textures. Design a zombie themed party: Throwing a zombie-themed event is a great way to get creative this Halloween. By designing the perfect invites, your guests will be encouraged to act the part. Your invites should...

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- Published: 2018-10-09
- Modified: 2019-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/win-a-24-x-24-canvas/
- Categories: Solopress News

We've recently hit 17,000 reviews on Trustpilot and we couldn't be more grateful to our customers who over the years, have provided us with honest feedback. As a thank you to all of you, we're giving away four 24" x 24" canvases. You have a chance to win any one of these by entering through four social platforms. Just simply follow our accounts, then like and share any of our competition posts about this on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. The competition will run from today and close on 23rd October at 11:59pm. You can enter all four of our separate competitions. Please be sure to read the full terms and conditions below. Best of luck! T&Cs (Posted onto the blog with details of entry and instructions): This competition is open to UK residents aged 18 or over. Employees of Solopress are not eligible to enter. Competition closes on 23rd October at 11:59pm, all entries after this will not be accepted. There will be 4 prizes in total across 4 platforms (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn & Instagram), one prize per platform. To enter you must follow us, share and like our competition posts. These follows, likes and shares need to remain until at least 1 week after the competition closes for verification purposes. Undoing these actions before 30th October at 11:59pm will invalidate your entry. You may enter all 4 different platform competitions but multiple shares, comments, etc will not count as additional entries. Only one entry per person, per platform....

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> Looking for poster ideas for your next event promotion or product launch? Capture the imagination of your audience with helpful design tips from Solopress.

- Published: 2018-10-03
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/attention-grabbing-poster-design-ideas/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

Master the art of impactful posters and you’ll capture the imagination of passers-by. The key to a great design? A combination of effective images, intriguing colours and snappy text. Whether simple or complex, colourful or understated, if you get all the design variables right for your event or product, you can design a poster that makes your audience stop and take notice. Posters should take your event or product, focus on its important aspects and advertise it in a way that’s appealing to the public. Creating such a poster relies on nailing seven key points: Colour Shape Paper type Size Illustrations Photography Fonts We’ll guide you through all seven and offer tips to help give you poster design ideas for your next big event or sale. Customisable poster ideas Colour Different colours evoke different emotions. Bright shades such as red, orange and yellow portray excitement and vibrancy, while monochrome colours represent calmness and simplicity. Whatever you’re advertising, choose your colours according to what you want your audience to feel. Use them to bring attention to your poster and highlight important pieces of information or as an eye-catching background.   Design tip: If you’re advertising a new product or upcoming event, use brighter colours to grab attention and build anticipation. Shape The shape of your poster is usually determined by what you’re promoting. If you’re advertising a gig or a one-off event, portrait posters are ideal as they’re likely to be text-heavy. Conversely, landscape posters generally suit photography-based designs. Be conscious...

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> Looking for ideas for your wedding invitation design? Our guide takes you through the features you can customise and some fabulous creative ideas.

- Published: 2018-09-28
- Modified: 2019-07-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/wedding-invitation-design-ideas/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Invitations, Weddings

When your guests receive their wedding invites through the post, it’s the first glimpse they’ll get of your big day. It should perfectly reflect your chosen colour palette and theme, giving people an idea of what they can expect from your wedding. Get the design right and you can kickstart the countdown to your wedding in style. We’ve curated a list of different features you can customise to make it truly personal, as well as a few wedding invitation design ideas and themes to get you thinking. Customisable features With a wealth of options available when it comes to customising your wedding invites, there are so many ways to get creative. Five features, in particular, can be altered to get the design you want: Colour Paper type Shape Size Fonts Focus on these and you can start creating your dream invitations that your guests can’t help but say yes to. Colour Coordinate the palette of your invitations to match the theme of your big day. A dusty rose hue works beautifully with sage green, while an inky blue shade is perfectly complemented by shimmering gold. Take your time to pick the perfect colour scheme, then let it dictate the look and feel of the rest of your wedding day. Paper type Printing your invitations on an alternative type of paper can reflect the overall theme of your big occasion. At Solopress, we print wedding invites on five different paper types: Silk Gloss Pulp Brown kraft paper Triple layer Not sure...

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> Southend-based printers Solopress assist local goalkeeper Harry Seaden on his path to become a professional footballer.

- Published: 2018-09-20
- Modified: 2019-07-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-sponsors-young-england-star/
- Categories: Solopress News

Harry Seaden As children, we're sure there were plenty of us who wanted to become a professional footballer at some point or another. However, as time passes our drive and ambitions change. For Harry, that dream has remained as real as it was all of those years ago. Originally not starting out in goal, his first venture as a goalkeeper came when he was attending school in Year 6. He often played in and out of goal over the years and got a taste of what his future would look like. Eventually realising his passion was to stay in front of the net and become a professional goalkeeper. Fast-forward to today and Harry has already achieved what most struggle to do. Being awarded goalkeeper of the tournament for England's under 16 side, playing for Southend United and making nine appearances for England through U17 & U16. He's already made big strides in paving the way for his future. As an avid Southend United supporter since his youth, he would love to play professionally for Southend United. Helping on his journey After meeting Harry we were blown away by his passion and commitment for the beautiful game. Running us through his strict diet, restrictions and training routine we can see why he has already come so far. These are just a few of the many reasons we have decided to sponsor Harry over the next 10-12 months to help him get where he needs to be. With an estimated 180 people...

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> Burst onto the scene with the right poster and you can make a real impact. Keep your designs on the right track with our posters and poster size guide.

- Published: 2018-09-18
- Modified: 2021-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/poster-sizes-a-complete-poster-size-guide/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Posters

Poster sizes Posters can be iconic. They evoke memories of life-changing events, movies and music gigs. And they’re crucial for getting that street-level exposure for your event, product or service. Put simply, posters are a classic form of marketing. The best thing is, they’re not constrained by style or size. Posters can range from artwork-heavy and colourful to minimalist and simple. Dive into our guide to poster sizes to discover the different types available and find the best match for you. Different poster sizes A series posters The dimensions of A series posters closely follow A paper sizes, so that’s a good reference point when selecting which one is best for you. There are five A poster sizes to choose from, each suiting a different purpose: A4 – Small, but with enough room to make an impact, A4 posters are a great option. Available in a huge selection of paper types and weights, they’re a versatile choice. A3 – If you’re looking for a little more room to play with, A3 can get your message across. It’s commonly seen indoors in bars or shop windows - the right mix of detail and white space make it especially eye-catching. A2 – This is the perfect size for gig and event posters. A2 posters can display snippets of information and leave enough room for impressive artwork and imagery. A1 – Our most popular choice at Solopress, A1 posters can super-size your message. Large fonts and grand designs are ideal for posters hanging...

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> When your business has a big printing project on the horizon, know your paper with Solopress’ helpful guide to different paper types.

- Published: 2018-09-11
- Modified: 2023-06-30
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/choosing-the-right-paper-a-guide-to-types-of-paper/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

Whether you’re printing a batch of flyers to promote an upcoming event or creating a brochure to showcase your range of products, the type of paper you choose matters. With a wealth of choice available, we’ve simplified things and collated the most popular paper types into one list. Discover why they’re widely used, what their characteristics are and how they’ll add to your promotional push. Different types of paper available To help your business decide what paper to use for your printing project, here are the most commonly used types at Solopress: Bond paper Originally, this was the paper of choice for important documents such as government bonds. Now it’s also used for promotions as it’s a strong and durable paper. Made from rag pulp, resulting in a high-quality feel and finish, bond paper is ideal for creating luxury printed materials. It’s also good at holding ink, which is why it’s frequently used for envelopes, letterheads, reports and other documents. Bear this in mind if you’re looking for a robust paper which still retains its visual impact when written on. Silk paper Silk paper sits between gloss and matt on the paper type spectrum. It retains gloss’ smooth finish, minus the shine, and shares matt’s softness but with a silkier coating. This luxury coating makes it ideal for book pages, flyers and magazines. It’s not just a premium choice though - it’s equally as popular for leaflet and poster printing as well. Pulp paper When shortlisting printing options, pulp paper...

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> Have an upcoming event to promote? Wedding invitations to send out? Learn all you need to know about envelopes and envelope sizes with our simple guide.

- Published: 2018-09-07
- Modified: 2021-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/envelopes-sizes-a-complete-size-guide/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Stationery

Envelopes are a vital fixture in the office stationery cupboard. These everyday essentials help keep confidential documents private and transport important information from one place to the other. But do you know your C5 from your DL+? We’ve created a handy all-in-one guide to envelopes and envelope sizes to help you find the right ones for your desk drawer. Different envelope types It might seem like an envelope is an envelope, but the documents you’re sending can determine which type you should purchase. Here are the different envelope types typically available and what they’re used for, which will come in handy when deliberating what kind of envelope you need. C4 The largest envelope we supply at Solopress. It’s slightly bigger than the size of an A4 sheet of paper and perfect for sending documents without folding them. Usually, C4 envelopes are used when mailing certificates, important documents, brochures or magazines. Make sure your office is well stocked with this size. C5 The traditional-sized envelope. Bigger than the size of an A5 sheet of paper or for an easier reference, an A4 piece of paper folded in half. C5 envelopes are commonly used when sending greeting cards and wedding invitations. In the business world, they’re often used for sending longer letters. That’s because you can fit more pages into an envelope by folding A4 sheets in half. C6 The smallest envelope we supply at Solopress. They’re not seen as much in the post-box as other envelopes, but it’s still worth keeping...

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> Does London lead the way when it comes to successful start-ups? Download our latest report now and discover the best UK cities to start a business.

- Published: 2018-08-31
- Modified: 2019-05-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/start-up-britain/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Does London lead the way when it comes to successful start-ups? How is the Northern Powerhouse taking shape? Which UK city is the best place to start a business? Our latest report, Start-Up Britain, has the answers. We’ve crunched the numbers and found the top UK cities where budding entrepreneurs can make their mark and what you should look out for when starting a new business. Download now The next big thing Every year, more than half a million new businesses are launched in the UK. Whether serving the local community or breaking new ground online, new companies combine market research with a hefty dose of promotion to ensure as wide a reach as possible. To attract new investment - and therefore new businesses - UK cities bid to host entrepreneurs in search of the next big idea. While new companies in London, Leeds and Edinburgh can get the advice and guidance they need on an enterprise level, there are some more practical things to consider which can make or break a start-up. What could make or break a business? We have compiled the Start-Up Britain – a report detailing the vital elements to consider when establishing a new business. If you’re looking to relocate to a larger town or city to get the ball rolling on a new business idea, it helps to know that initial support is there. Our top five ranked UK cities in the report benefit from one or more of these business-positive characteristics: Affordable commercial...

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> Tired of wading through the sea of information related to paper and paper sizes? Cut through the clutter with our comprehensive guide.

- Published: 2018-08-06
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-guide-to-paper-sizes/
- Categories: Tutorials

Show of hands - who gets confused when looking at paper sizes and codes? Trust us, you’re not alone. With so many choices available, different paper sizes, finishes, and weights can be baffling at times. Choosing the correct paper is fundamental to making an impact with your designs. Squeezing an unbelievable amount of detail onto your artwork on-screen might be possible, but the result won’t look so hot once it’s printed onto an A8 flyer. To help you understand the basics, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to paper and paper sizes. GSM: What does it stand for? GSM, or grams per square meter, is the measure of the weight and overall quality of the paper. Generally, the higher the GSM number, the heavier and of higher quality the paper is. Here’s a rough guide to GSM sizes: Item GSM paper weight Printed paper 80 – 100gsm Posters 130 – 350gsm Flyers and leaflets 130 – 350gsm Brochures 130 – 250gsm Greeting Cards 350 – 400gsm Letterheads 100 – 170gsm Business Cards 400 – 810gsm As you can see, there’s a big difference in weights and that’s something you need to consider when taking your designs to print. To find out more about GSM, take a look at our quick guide. Paper finishes Weight is important, but we believe the finish of paper is equally vital and can have an impact of its own if chosen correctly. Here are a few of the most common types: Matt: A matt finish is...

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> If you’re in the midst of planning your big day, use our guide to how to write and word wedding invitations and tick invites off your list.

- Published: 2018-07-26
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/how-to-write-and-word-wedding-invitations/
- Categories: Special Occasions
- Tags: Invitations, Weddings

Give your guests a tantalising insight into what to expect on your big day with the perfect design and wording on your wedding invites. Choosing beautiful wedding stationery is all part of the fun. Whether you're having a traditional white wedding, a modern celebration or a more informal do, you'll need to decide on suitable wording on your wedding invites to share all the important details. Creating the invites is just one of the many things to think about when planning for the big day - but don't worry too much about invitation wording for weddings, as the rules of etiquette are really quite straightforward. Use our simple guidelines to help you choose the right wording and create special invitations that perfectly set the tone for your wedding day. Essential information for wedding invites There are several important details you must remember to include in your wedding invitation, no matter whether you've chosen a formal or informal do. These include: Who's hosting the wedding Who is invited - including children's names if they’re also invited Full names of the happy couple The request to come to the wedding Full location details for the ceremony and reception venues The date and time of the wedding ceremony and reception RSVP details - provide a separate response card or simply clear instructions on how and by when to reply Optional extras for wedding invites You may also wish to include other details on your invites, depending on personal preference: Gifts - If you're...

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> Take a look at our Business Card size guide and discover which one’s best for you. From standard to mini, we have all shapes and sizes.

- Published: 2018-07-19
- Modified: 2023-02-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-card-size-guide/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

Finding the perfect Business Card to impress new customers and spread the word is easy with Solopress. We understand that one size doesn't fit all – that’s why we offer a wide choice of Business Card sizes and styles to meet different needs. Whether you’d like to play it safe with a traditional look and feel, showcase your contemporary edge with a square design or impress with a mini style, our range of Business Card dimensions will help you create the ultimate networking tool. Make the most of our easy-to-use free Business Card maker to design your ideal Business Card. With plenty of styles to choose from, they’re easy to customise with text and images to create a personalised Business Card that’s individual to you. If being creative is not your thing, then our team of designers are on hand to help design the perfect artwork to suit you and your business. Whether you're considering different stocks, getting creative with design or exploring various Business Cards sizes, we offer a wide range of options to help you achieve a competitive edge. To assist you with the process of choosing and designing your customised Business Cards, we've highlighted the main sizes available at Solopress. Different Business Card sizes What size are Business Cards? The answer is that there are a number of size options available, with certain Business Card measurements finding preference in specific industries or territories. Standard The Standard UK Business Card dimensions are the same size as a credit...

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> Marketing for small business can often make you wonder where to start so, we've put together 17 ways to market a small business on a budget to help.

- Published: 2018-06-20
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/budget-small-business-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Marketing for small business Marketing is key to the success of your small business. It helps to establish your brand, gets your name out there and builds trust with customers so they come to you first. With the right marketing plan, you can increase revenue and keep your clients coming back for more. Although marketing for small businesses is important, it needn't cost the earth. To help make your budget go further, we’ve highlighted 17 low-cost marketing ideas. Know what you want to achieve Before you can begin deploying cheap marketing ideas, it’s essential you have a clear plan of what you want to achieve. A marketing strategy should be directly related to business goals and will help outline what you want to do. Think about whether you want to increase sales, promote your brand or reach out to new customers. Write a marketing plan Now you have an idea of what you want to achieve, take the time to develop a marketing plan. Another vital part of marketing a small business, your plan for the future will outline how you’re going to achieve your goals. If you’re looking to get back in touch with old clients maybe that involves an email strategy? Or if you’re looking to show authority in your field, perhaps starting a blog is a good idea? With a plan on paper, you can start to get the wheels in motion. Improve staff knowledge It's not always easy to work out where to start with marketing,...

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> Why should you develop a small business marketing plan? Marketing been shown to increase revenue by up to 19% and provide useful tools for you to use

- Published: 2018-06-06
- Modified: 2020-10-08
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/small-business-marketing-plan/
- Categories: Tutorials

A small business marketing plan is essential for your business' operations and can help drive growth and bolster revenue. For busy SMEs, it can easily drop to the bottom of the priority list. However, it’s vital to creating new opportunities and getting your company in front of the right people. To get started, you’ll need a well-considered small business marketing plan to help show what you need to do to promote your business, attract customers and drive sales. With all of this laid out, you can start to plot your approach and start hitting your KPIs. There are many benefits to marketing for small businesses. If you're looking for inspiration, have a read through our list of why you need to develop a small business marketing plan today. To define your brand Marketing adds value by helping to develop a brand. It’s what makes your business stand out from your competitors. A powerful brand makes your business memorable, creates a respectable reputation and instils trust in your customers. Your brand can represent your values and the standards you set, which you can then express through your marketing. To share business goals Although marketing can help grow revenue by 19%, according to research by The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), it’s all too often undervalued. A fundamental business function, marketing delivers long-term value and an effective plan can have a real impact on your business' income, so putting one together is a no-brainer. To find your audience To sell your products...

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> Choosing your paper weight is an important part of having your print produced. We've broken down this for you to help make those choices just a bit easier.

- Published: 2018-06-01
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/what-is-gsm-paper-weight/
- Categories: Tutorials

When choosing your printed product, it's important to consider paper weight and the type of paper. Both will play a big part in the look and feel of the final result. The right paper can help create that crucial first impression before your customer even starts to read the messaging. The quality of the paper you choose will also be a reflection of your company. If you’re setting the standard for a great service with excellent products, reinforce those values with promotional materials that mirror your attention to quality. But what is paper weight and how is paper weight determined? We look more closely at what it means and at the best uses for different types of paper according to their thickness and weight. Our guide will give you an idea of the options and range available to you as you design your perfect printed promotion. What does GSM paper mean? Paper is measured in grams per square metre (GSM). The higher the GSM, the heavier and thicker the paper. There are varying weights of GSM paper, meaning you can find the right one for a number of different applications. Choosing GSM paper thickness It's easier to understand what different paper thickness might feel like if you start with an awareness of the thickness of a standard piece of paper. For example, a typical office paper, used in a copier or printer, would be around 90gsm. Common GSM paper weights are: 80gsm 90gsm 100gsm 120gsm 130gsm 150gsm 170gsm Any paper...

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> Choosing the right colour process for your print is not easy. We compare Pantone colours & CMYK colours to help you decide what the best fit is for you.

- Published: 2018-05-18
- Modified: 2019-05-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/pantone-colours-vs-cmyk-colours/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

The print process When a file is prepared for print, it’s set up using a four-colour system known as CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow and black). But, Pantone colours can also be considered for certain requirements. When printing, an image is made up of hundreds of different combinations of these colours. They’re built up by passing through a press, which picks up the different colours individually to form the desired shade. Whether printing on a digital printer or offset lithographic printer, the colours are made up exclusively of CMYK, also known as four-colour or process printing. But there are some colours which simply cannot be recreated using the CMYK colour process. For these, you can opt to use a spot colour or Pantone colours. Pantone colours Pantone colours are very similar to paint swatches you see at DIY shops. There are hundreds of varying shades and depths of colours, each with a number assigned for identification. These shades are created by mixing from a palette of 14 base colours - like mixing paint, but the process is very specific. Each colour comes with a particular recipe which involves the ink being weighed out to a precise amount in a certain order and hand-mixed by the print operative. Alternatively, most colours can be purchased pre-mixed. Pros and cons To create colours, a print machine needs to know the exact balance of CMYK to create the correct shade. One of the benefits of using Pantone colours is that guesswork is completely removed as...

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> Struggling to keep your marketing material fresh? Not to worry, we've created a guide to freshening up your marketing materials.

- Published: 2018-05-02
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/how-to-keep-your-marketing-materials-fresh/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Refreshing your marketing materials is like buying new clothes or changing your hair. Fundamentally you are the same, but you’ve just jazzed things up a little on the outside. All trends have a shelf life, and your marketing materials are the same. You can’t afford for them to go stale and become ineffective. The only way to combat this is with a marketing makeover. A marketing makeover doesn’t necessarily mean a complete rebrand (although in some cases a rebrand would be beneficial). Rather, it involves sprucing up materials in order to add a new lease of life to your communications. Overhauling your marketing could include a variety of changes across all of your touchpoints, such as redesigned business cards or a new direct mail campaign. There are many different reasons and opportunities to keep your marketing materials fresh, but ultimately it comes down to what you want to achieve as a business. There are several factors that can make you realise the time is right, as outlined below. Trouble getting customer’s attention? Of course, the most obvious reason to refresh your marketing materials is if it simply doesn’t do the job anymore. Everything evolves over time, and your customers do too. If you keep giving out the exact same message to the exact same people in the exact same way, after a while it just becomes white noise and will get ignored. If you find your message isn't resonating anymore, then you'll need to mix things up and find something...

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> Solopress explore the trend of modern student businesses, finding that launching a start-up was a more appealing lifestyle for the younger generation.

- Published: 2018-04-09
- Modified: 2019-05-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/modern-student-business-the-new-co-worker/
- Categories: Solopress News

Over half of students plan to ditch grad jobs for self-employment Graduate jobs are being ditched in favour of self-employment, a new study reveals. Over half (56%) of students, which equates to 1. 2 million people in university education1, are considering setting up their own business, instead of getting on the corporate career ladder. Exploring the trend of modern student businesses, the research carried out by leading print company Solopress, found that launching a start-up was a more appealing lifestyle for the newest generation of workers. Surprisingly, nearly a third (32%) of students consider starting their own company in their first 12 months of university, with 38% certain it would give them a better chance of being successful. The study also looks into the benefits students think self-employment offers that employers don’t. Nearly half (47%) say it’s down to flexible working, 45% wanted to be their own boss and over a fifth (28%) thought working for themselves offers a better work/life balance. For over a third (36%) however, it’s the financial benefits that lead them to choose self-employment. Despite the average salary for UK graduates sitting at £19k-£22k, over a quarter (27%) expect around £25k, while one in ten expect at least £30k meaning the workforce is falling behind when it comes to starting income. Regardless of increased internet access and the ability to work remotely, nearly half (45%) of students think setting up a business while studying is harder now than it was for previous generations. Over two thirds...

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> Discover our guide to DL size, including how it compares to other dimensions of paper, Envelopes, Brochures, Flyers, Leaflets, Cards and Invitations.

- Published: 2018-03-15
- Modified: 2022-06-14
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-complete-dl-size-guide-what-is-dl-solopress/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets, Flyers & Leaflets

Give your Brochures, Flyers and Leaflets a sleek and sophisticated makeover by using DL size. Tall, slim and perfect for pamphlets, it’s an eye-catching design that commands attention. Check out our DL size guide and see how it compares to other paper dimensions, and also what you can use DL size products for. What is DL size? DL measures 99mm x 210mm – exactly one-third of A4. It’s the standard size of Business Stationery such as Compliment Slips, Envelopes, Notepads and NCR Pads, as well as promotional materials such as Brochures, Flyers and Leaflets. DL stands for ‘dimension lengthwise’. DL dimensions It’s important to consider size when buying paper, Envelopes and Cards or printing Leaflets, Flyers and Brochures. While going for a large-size paper format gives you more space to get your message across, less is sometimes more – and smaller sizes can make a big impact. Here are the dimensions of each size in mm, cm and inches. DL paper size dimensions Paper size DL A0 A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 Measurement in mm 99 x 210 841 x 1189 594 x 841 420 x 594 297 x 420 210 x 297 148 x 210 105 x 148 Measurement in cm 9. 9 x 21 84. 1 x 118. 9 59. 4 x 84. 1 42 x 59. 4 29. 7 x 42 21 x 29. 7 14. 8 x 21 10. 5 x 14. 8 Measurement in inches 3. 9 x 8. 3 33. 1 x 46....

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> Need help with a new project? Here are a handful of well-known, and not-so-well-known tools that designers use daily.

- Published: 2018-03-15
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/useful-free-designer-resources/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> Back in the day, the double exposure effect was produced using nothing but a camera to combine two separate images, creating an amazing abstract photograph.

- Published: 2017-08-25
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-create-a-double-exposure-effect/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Back in the day, the double exposure effect was produced using nothing but a camera to combine two separate images, creating an amazing abstract photograph. Recently, double exposure images have become popular again, and there are many people creating surreal images, but now it’s usually done with software like Photoshop. Typically, a portrait and a landscape are blended together, so this is what our tutorial will show you today. Step 1: Select your images Choose images that work well for this tutorial. Portraits with dark tones such as brown hair on a light background work very well, as they help to bring out the details in the landscape. Step 2: Open the base images Open both original images and place the cityscape on top of the portrait. Change the Blending Mode of the city to Screen. Here, think about the composition of your image, as the placement of the cityscape can have a dramatic effect on the final, finished image. I have desaturated both images, so we can add custom colours later. To do this, go to Image > Adjustments > Desaturate (Shift + CMD + U) Step 3: Correct Contrast As you can see in the image above, I have added a Smart Filter (to do this, simply right click on the image in the layer panel and select Convert to Smart Object) to each layer. I am using this smart filter to adjust the Curves to get a deeper black in the shadows of the face and hair....

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> Prepare to be mindblown... We've picked 5 impressive origami designers with impressive folded models, from cute cats to Alien's xenomorph!

- Published: 2017-08-16
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/origami-designers/
- Categories: Art & Design

Throughout the years, origami designers have always impressed the public with their patience and dexterity, folding colourful sheets of paper into animals, flowers and geometrical shapes. The word "origami" is a combination of two words - "ori" meaning "folding" and "kami" meaning "paper". The first mentions of this ancient craft came from China during the Sung Dynasty (905-1125 CE), where folded paper was burnt during funerals. In Japan, the art of paper folding has been practiced since the Edo period (1603–1867), while in Europe, the closest genre to origami was napkin-folding, which has been widely popular since 16th century. Nowadays, origami is a popular art form, embraced by many designers around the globe. Here are the most noteworthy origami designers, selected by our team: Akira Yoshizawa Named as the grandmaster of origami, Akira Yoshizawa has pioneered various folding techniques and transformed this craft into art. In 1989, by his estimation, he has completed approximately 50,000 models, with only a few hundred of them presented in his 18 books. 2. Hojyo Takashi While there is not much information about Hojyo himself, his designs are widely shared (and folded! ) across the internet. His diagrams are extremely complicated, but the successful results are well worth the struggle. Mahoraga folded by Artur Biernacki 3. Katsuta Kyohei Born in 1986, Katsuta Kyohei began folding paper when he was only 4, learning from his mother. Nowadays, Katsuta's life-like origami designs are well-known by origamists around the world. His diagrams are extremely popular, including beautiful animals,...

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> Time to appreciate these beautiful TV Show title fonts with our latest blog post dedicated to typography in TV Series.

- Published: 2017-07-05
- Modified: 2021-01-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/popular-tv-show-title-fonts/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

Time to appreciate these cool TV Show title fonts With the rise of Netflix and other popular video streaming platforms, TV shows and series have become an essential part of modern culture. Unlike in movie poster designs, where you can sometimes notice free fonts, TV series titles try to be unique and differ from each other. The Walking Dead True fans of The Walking Dead have already noticed how the show's logo decayed through seasons, to portray the change and deterioration of the human society. Thanks to the grotesque sans serif font Tungsten Black, published by Hoefler & Co, the effect was extremely effective. Breaking Bad Breaking Bad is a must-watch for everyone into a quality crime drama. It is widely classed as one of the greatest television shows of all time and most-watched cable shows on American television. In 2013, Breaking Bad even set the Guinness World Record as the "Highest-Rated TV Series" of all time. The title logo features symbols of chemical elements from the Periodic Table in green, using Cooper Medium. House of Cards House of Cards is a fantastic depiction of the pragmatic and manipulative nature of politics, and thanks to the brilliant acting of Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright, we all fell in love with it. The font type used for the title is Bourgeois, designed by Jonathan Barnbrook and Marcus Leis Allion. Peaky Blinders Peaky Blinders is a clever and intense gangster drama, telling the story of the famous Romani/Irish gang and its leader...

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> With the Chelsea Flower Show underway, we are surrounded by stunning floral arrangements. Such things give so many different people inspirations to create.

- Published: 2017-05-22
- Modified: 2019-06-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/floral-tattoo-artists/
- Categories: Art & Design

With the Chelsea Flower Show underway, we are surrounded by stunning floral arrangements. Such events are a hive of inspiration for creative people, such as tattoo artists for example, who are inspired to make permanent works of art for themselves and others. So I thought it would be fun to take a look at some beautiful floral tattoos and the artists that create them. Rit Kit More formally known as Rita Zolotukhina, Rit is a Ukrainian artist whose unique style of tattooing is catching the eyes of many. Rita uses real leaves and flowers to transfer the stencil ink. This includes more detail and realism than any hand drawn stencil could, making Rita’s work truly one of a kind. Instagram @rit. kit. tattoo Silo Silo is a Korean artist who has become very popular within the last year. Using no black outlines or ink, the designs look as though they have been painted right onto the body. They create soft and elegant looking pieces that anyone would admire. Instagram @tattooist_silo Pis Saro A native to Crimea, Pis Saro has really made an impact in the tattoo world. With a style very similar to that of a watercolour painting, it is truly beautiful. Any nature lover will find these fascinating. Instagram @pissaro_tattoo Lindsay Asselstine Toronto-based artist Lindsay has only been tattooing for a short while, but is already producing some really compelling work. Usually only using line work, her designs look like minimalist pencil sketches. Delicate yet striking. Instagram @lindsayapriltattoo Mini...

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> Learn how to create beautiful floral typography in Adobe Photoshop with our simple and easy to follow tutorial.

- Published: 2017-05-22
- Modified: 2019-11-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/tutorial-create-beautiful-floral-typography-photoshop/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography, Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop

Spring is upon us, which means the Chelsea Flower Show is just around the corner! Here at Solopress HQ, we have taken some inspiration from this special event and created a stunning floral typography Photoshop tutorial for you. This popular design technique really stands out and can be used in your upcoming spring/summer campaigns. Let's get started! (more... )

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> In light of the upcoming film festival in Cannes, film posters are everywhere. Movie posters and their fonts are a huge part in advertising the picture.

- Published: 2017-05-17
- Modified: 2020-12-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/popular-fonts-used-movie-posters/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography
- Tags: Posters

In light of the upcoming film festival in Cannes, film posters are everywhere. These are a huge part in advertising movies. You want it to make an impression, gain interest and be memorable. (more... )

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> With Earth Day fast approaching, we are looking at sustainability in the print industry and what we can do to help. So what is sustainability?

- Published: 2017-04-19
- Modified: 2021-11-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/sustainability-print-industry/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

Have you ever thought about how sustainable printing is? With Earth Day fast approaching, we are looking at sustainability in the printing business and what we can do to help. (more... )

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> Red nose day is a national charity event coordinated by Comic Relief. It occurs once every 2 years and this year, the event took place on Friday 24th March.

- Published: 2017-03-27
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/red-nose-day/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Solopress News

Red Nose Day is a national charity event coordinated by Comic Relief. The first Red Nose Day was Held on 5th February 1988 and over the 30 years it has been in operation, the Great British public have raised over £1 Billion for the charity. (more... )

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> Exciting times are afoot at Solopress as we are joining forces with Onlineprinters, one of Europe's top online print providers.

- Published: 2017-03-16
- Modified: 2019-05-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-joining-onlineprinters-group/
- Categories: Solopress News

Exciting times are afoot at Solopress as we are joining forces with Onlineprinters, one of Europe's top online print providers. (more... )

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> A good gift needs an equally good presentation. Add a personal touch to mother’s day with our unique and crafty gift wrap ideas.

- Published: 2017-03-13
- Modified: 2018-12-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/top-5-stylish-gift-wrapping-ideas-mothers-day/
- Categories: Tutorials

A good gift needs an equally good presentation. Add a personal touch to mother’s day with our unique and crafty gift wrap ideas. Here are our top 5 suggestions. (more... )

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> If you're considering stickers or decals, we've got all the info you need to select the ideal material and create an effective sticker design

- Published: 2017-01-19
- Modified: 2024-10-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-your-stickers/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Stickers & Labels

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> How crucial is creativity to your business or career? We asked 500 business owners from a variety of sectors to tell us their thoughts.

- Published: 2016-10-25
- Modified: 2019-05-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/creativity-business-achieve-success/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Author & creative business advisor, Pete Mosley, shares his thoughts how companies can foster a creative work environment

- Published: 2016-10-25
- Modified: 2022-04-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/foster-creative-work-environment/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Discover the UK's most recognised typeface and test your own font knowledge in our quiz for a chance to win a typography book bundle worth £50.

- Published: 2016-08-24
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/the-uks-most-recognisable-typeface/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

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> What makes a font great? Being part of an identity. Explore the cities, which are are defined by their fonts in Solopress' font-tastic campaign.

- Published: 2016-08-24
- Modified: 2021-06-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/fonts-that-define-a-city/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

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> At Solopress, we are celebrating 10 years official sponsorship of the Chelmsford Chieftains ice hockey team. Co-founder Aron Priest went along to mark the occasion.

- Published: 2016-01-15
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/10-years-with-the-chelmsford-chieftains/
- Categories: Solopress News

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> Easy for those in the know, difficult for newcomers to design. Here is a quick run down to make life easier when supplying your images for print.

- Published: 2015-11-17
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/a-quick-guide-to-image-resolution/
- Categories: Tutorials

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> From a simple way to identify cattle to worldwide theories behind design and corporate identity, let's take a look at the history of branding.

- Published: 2015-11-02
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/a-history-of-branding/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Branding

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> Let's take a step back in time and celebrate our local history with some beautiful vintage seaside posters.

- Published: 2015-10-20
- Modified: 2019-01-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/incredible-vintage-seaside-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> In a bid to solidify their 'brand DNA', The Guardian have now unveiled their official guidelines to ensure steady evolution instead of revolution.

- Published: 2015-10-16
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/the-guardian-unveil-brand-guidelines/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Branding

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> In celebration of International Print Day, let's take some time to look at the very first print reproductions and how we got to where we are today.

- Published: 2015-10-14
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/international-print-day/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> Dean Chalkley had a strange career path before becoming a highly acclaimed photographer. Here's the story behind his inspiration and incredible work.

- Published: 2015-09-14
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/inspirational-photography-by-dean-chalkley/
- Categories: Photography

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> Possibly the most celebrated name in the world of Pop Art, Andy Warhol. Let's take a look at how he went from social outcast to become a 1960's pop icon.

- Published: 2015-09-01
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/andy-warhol-before-the-banana/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> Don't let the rain dampen your day. Here are some products to make sure that your marketing is not washed away with the wet weather.

- Published: 2015-08-24
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/rainy-day-marketing-ideas/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

Don't let the rain dampen your day. Here are some products to make sure that your marketing is not washed away with the wet weather. Vinyl Banners The perfect way to shout about your latest upcoming event; these vinyl banners come in a range of sizes suitable for all occasions. The banners are a sturdy solution and easily secured with heavy-duty eyelets and are printed full colour at 720dpi onto a heavyweight 500gsm vinyl. This substantial material PVC is fully weather-resistant and a sure-fire way to ensure your promotion doesn’t go unnoticed. Flags Being able to withstand winds up to 18mph, our printed flags are suitable for both indoor and outdoor events. With an option of Quill, Feather, Edge and Crest styles, they are available in a choice of four different sizes to suit every occasion. The full fibre pole, available in four different lengths, gives additional strength & flexibility offering peace of mind that this flag pole will always perform. Once in position, your flag can be held in place with a secure nylon cord for easy assembly. Highly adaptable with a selection of different bases, you can handpick each element of your flag to meet your unique requirements. Signage With a choice of three different materials available in a wide range of sizes, there is something for everybody with our fantastic signage solutions. Whether you are looking for a lightweight Foamex board or a crack-resistant DiBond board, we have the product for you. All of our signage boards...

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> Artist, Designer, Photographer… Meticulous Fantasist. Erik Johansson is a Swedish-born artist who specialises in capturing ideas and not moments.

- Published: 2015-08-03
- Modified: 2019-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/other-worldly-erik-johansson/
- Categories: Photography

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> Take a look at our latest blog about the importance of vocabulary and how it is involved in every aspect of our lives.

- Published: 2015-07-08
- Modified: 2019-07-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-importance-of-vocabulary/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> We caught up with prolific photographer/traveller Luke Gram to tell us the story behind his truly inspirational work. Prepare to be amazed.

- Published: 2015-06-17
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/photography-by-luke-gram/
- Categories: Photography

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> As well as our Create Your Own feature, we also have some great free design templates to ensure your work is the correct size before you print. Take a look!

- Published: 2015-06-08
- Modified: 2020-10-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/free-design-templates/
- Categories: Tutorials

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> Perfect for that vintage feel and eco friendly, let’s take some time to look into the facts about printing with Pulp.

- Published: 2015-05-29
- Modified: 2023-02-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-facts-about-pulp/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> This week we've been looking at album art. Will what's on the cover make or break your next music purchase? Let's take a look at where the idea came from.

- Published: 2015-05-08
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/a-brief-history-of-album-art/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Learn how to design a Day Glo Poster in Adobe Photoshop with our easy to follow tutorial.

- Published: 2015-04-27
- Modified: 2020-10-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/photoshop-tutorial-how-to-design-a-day-glo-poster/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop, Posters

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> CMYK or Pantone? Unsure of which colour format you need for the job? Let’s take a look to explain the differences and where they are all needed.

- Published: 2015-04-14
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/pantone-or-process/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> When searching for printed products you may have come across the term ‘Spot UV’. Let's take a look at this fantastic technique and see how it works.

- Published: 2015-03-25
- Modified: 2019-06-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/spot-uv-how/
- Categories: Print Inspiration, Tutorials

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> We take a look at the two most popular printing methods in use today - digital and lithographic - explaining both so that you can decide which is right for you.

- Published: 2015-03-11
- Modified: 2019-11-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/digital-and-lithographic-printing-a-comparison/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> What is PUR Binding and why is it so superior to the rest? As we explore, the real difference in the two methods is the glue used and how this reacts chemically.

- Published: 2015-03-11
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/pur/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> What is a coated paper? What is uncoated paper? What is the real difference and how will it change how people think of your business? Find out here.

- Published: 2015-03-09
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/coated-paper-vs-uncoated-paper/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

If you need to print products for your company, you may be considering which paper will give your customers the message you desire. What is a coated paper? What is uncoated paper? What is the real difference and how will it change how people think of your business? (more... )

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> What is CMYK and how does it work? Find out everything you need to know about CMYK printing and how it differs from RGB in our guide.

- Published: 2015-02-23
- Modified: 2021-10-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/cmyk-works/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> We hardly think about it these days. We order business cards or buy a paperback book, and never consider how print has changed the world.

- Published: 2015-02-20
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-has-changed-the-world/
- Categories: Print Industry News

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> Great menu design is an essential aspect of running a successful restaurant or bar. Check out these tips for creating a a mouthwatering menu.

- Published: 2015-02-18
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/art-of-menu-design/
- Categories: Print Inspiration, Tutorials

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> It's a trend that's being gaining momentum for the last few years and doesn't seem set to stop any time soon; people with unusual job titles.

- Published: 2015-02-11
- Modified: 2019-07-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/unusual-job-titles/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Global Business Card etiquette can vary greatly, and for anyone who travels internationally for work, it's worth knowing cultural business traditions.

- Published: 2015-02-05
- Modified: 2023-02-14
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/global-business-card-etiquette/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Business Cards

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> Printing business cards, leaflets or posters? Get the best out of your print and "wow" your audience with these handy free support guides.

- Published: 2015-02-04
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/get-the-best-out-of-your-print/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> It's about time you mark your skill in the kitchen on paper; why not print your own cookbook and share your time honoured favourites with others?

- Published: 2015-01-12
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/print-your-own-cookbook/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

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> Over the last week, we've been celebrating Christmas at Solopress, and the festivities have brought us together as a team at this important time of year!

- Published: 2014-12-22
- Modified: 2019-07-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/christmas-at-solopress/
- Categories: Special Occasions
- Tags: Christmas

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> More consumers are shopping on the Internet now than ever before, and as online shopping becomes prevalent, brands are rethinking packaging.

- Published: 2014-12-15
- Modified: 2019-03-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/rethinking-packaging/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> During the centennial of the WW1, we take a look at the impact printers made and the challenges they faced, showing off examples of print in the trenches.

- Published: 2014-12-10
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-in-the-trenches/
- Categories: Print Industry News

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> There's still time for Christmas shopping, and with a few fresh ideas for marketing your gift basket business, you'll reach a wider audience for your wares!

- Published: 2014-12-09
- Modified: 2020-11-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-your-gift-basket-business/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Emojis have been the talk of the web lately, but what do they all mean? Instantly recognisable and often misinterpreted; check your emoji knowledge.

- Published: 2014-11-25
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/emoji-meanings/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> Keen to try your hand at designing your own roller banner? Check out our handy guide and make it easy with these useful ideas.

- Published: 2014-11-21
- Modified: 2019-06-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/designing-your-own-roller-banner/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Roller Banners

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> With dementia friendly print, maintaining a good quality of life with independence and dignity is possible!

- Published: 2014-11-10
- Modified: 2020-06-18
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/dementia-friendly-print/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

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> Want something "more" to make an impression on your customers? High tech print may offer many opportunities in this regard.

- Published: 2014-11-05
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/high-tech-print/
- Categories: Print Industry News

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> Creating branding for a gym? If you're seeking inspiration in choosing fonts for the health and fitness industry, look no further.

- Published: 2014-10-30
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/fonts-for-the-health-and-fitness-industry/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

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> In this easy to follow three-minute video tutorial, we'll teach you how to make an isometric cube pattern using Adobe Illustrator.

- Published: 2014-10-29
- Modified: 2019-11-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/isometric-cube-pattern/
- Categories: Tutorials

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> At Solopress, we're proud of participating in several eco-initiatives, especially printing with recycled paper. But what does that really mean?

- Published: 2014-10-27
- Modified: 2020-01-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/printing-with-recycled-paper/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

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> Previously featured in our blog, Honest Slogans is a brutally funny website that reimagines what brand slogans would say if they were a little more honest.

- Published: 2014-10-21
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/10-more-brutally-honest-brand-slogans/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Branding

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> British designer Steve Wintercroft shows you how to create cool 3D papercraft masks, like a Star Wars Stormtrooper helmet, from recycled cardboard boxes.

- Published: 2014-10-20
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/star-wars-3d-papercraft-masks-by-steve-wintercroft/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> Some moments just call for print. When you need to make formal contact with a business associate or client, great letterhead design is essential.

- Published: 2014-10-17
- Modified: 2019-11-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/great-letterhead-design/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Stationery

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> These awesome video game posters by Dylan West would enliven the den of any Nintendo, PlayStation or Xbox gamer.

- Published: 2014-10-13
- Modified: 2019-06-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/awesome-video-game-posters-by-dylan-west/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

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> To help get you in the Halloween mood, Solopress proudly present our favourite horror movie posters. Turn down the lights and prepared to be scared!

- Published: 2014-10-06
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/top-10-horror-movie-posters-of-all-time/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

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> Fun ideas for a brilliant Halloween Rocky Horror Dinner Party, with no toast and hot dogs on the menu!

- Published: 2014-10-02
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/rocky-horror-dinner-party/
- Categories: Special Occasions

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> Learn how to make text look handwritten within an image with this handy Adobe Illustrator tutorial.

- Published: 2014-09-29
- Modified: 2019-05-15
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/make-text-look-handwritten/
- Categories: Tutorials

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> Learn how to design this Rustic Eco Themed Wedding Invitation in Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow tutorial.

- Published: 2014-09-24
- Modified: 2019-11-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/design-wedding-invitation/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Invitations, Photoshop, Weddings

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> There are many ways to say thank you to your wedding guests using printed cards or even tags. From the unique to the classic, explore and get creative!

- Published: 2014-09-22
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/creative-ways-to-say-thank-you-after-your-wedding-day/
- Categories: Special Occasions
- Tags: Weddings

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> Eric Tan, a creative at Disney Consumer Products and self-proclaimed beach bum, has produced these awesome Star Wars posters for the original movie trilogy.

- Published: 2014-09-19
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/awesome-star-wars-posters-by-eric-tan/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

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> In honour of National Burger Day, we're taking a look at some of the most creative and stylish burger packaging that's been crafted by innovative designers.

- Published: 2014-09-18
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/creative-and-stylish-burger-packaging/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> The Poke-verse has expanded, but our favourite, yellow mouse Pokemon has not. In honour of Video Games Day, we analyse the Skinny Pikachu Theory.

- Published: 2014-09-12
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/skinny-pikachu-theory/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> Are you thinking of starting your own mobile beauty business whilst raising a family? Here's some helpful hints and tips to kick start your marketing.

- Published: 2014-09-11
- Modified: 2019-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/mobile-beauty-business/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Simple and effective like a shoulder check to your opponent! Roller derby marketing for your team can be easy and affordable with these tips.

- Published: 2014-09-11
- Modified: 2019-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/roller-derby-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> Fresh and original ways to make your first impressions count. Dare to be different, consider shaping your future with custom-shaped Business Cards.

- Published: 2014-09-09
- Modified: 2023-02-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/custom-shaped-business-cards/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

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> Learn how to create a stunning baby shower party invitation for a girl or boy in our latest Adobe Photoshop design video tutorial. It's child's play!

- Published: 2014-09-08
- Modified: 2019-11-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-baby-shower-invitation/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Invitations, Photoshop

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> It can be a "ruff" task! Set yourself apart from the competition with these tips for marketing your dog grooming business.

- Published: 2014-09-04
- Modified: 2019-05-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/dog-grooming/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> If his brilliant minimalist cocktail drink posters are anything to go by, it must permanently be Pimm’s O’Clock at Nick Barclay's design studio!

- Published: 2014-09-03
- Modified: 2019-06-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/minimalist-cocktail-drink-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

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> Northern Soul Art.com’s Peter Doyle reveals why Solopress are always on the right track when it comes to printing Neil Thompson's soulful art work…

- Published: 2014-09-01
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/britains-northern-soul-captured-in-print/
- Categories: Customer Stories

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> Learn how to create a cool and sharp geometric pattern using Adobe Illustrator in our latest Flat Design video tutorial. It's easy peasy!

- Published: 2014-08-27
- Modified: 2019-07-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-geometric-pattern/
- Categories: Tutorials

(more... )

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> Want to see how world leaders showcase their business at exhibitions? These modern display stands are full of impact, creative design and inspiration.

- Published: 2014-08-26
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/top-modern-display-stand/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Exhibition Stands

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> Born and bred in Weston-Super-Mare, Jamie Paul Scanlon (aka JPS) is more than just your average street artist, as these brilliant works of street art show…

- Published: 2014-08-22
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/insanely-awesome-street-art-jps/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> Did you get great GCSE results today? Perhaps you'll get to celebrate with a treat like these gorgeous graduation cake designs!

- Published: 2014-08-21
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/graduation-cake-designs/
- Categories: Art & Design

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> As a professional gardener, you love to spend time outdoors. But how is your business is growing? Don't miss these simple marketing tips for gardeners.

- Published: 2014-08-21
- Modified: 2020-10-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/marketing-tips-for-gardeners/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> Create gardening Business Cards which reflect your services with our free template. Follow our video and step-by-step tutorial on Adobe Photoshop.

- Published: 2014-08-20
- Modified: 2023-03-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-gardener-business-card/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Business Cards

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> Cool coffee cups - designs, rebranding and packaging from top industry designers. Downloadable templates for your own coffee shop and inspirational ideas.

- Published: 2014-08-19
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/cool-coffee-cups-design-rebranding/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Branding

(more... )

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> Check out these politically incorrect marketing campaigns from the past from minimum wage Barbie to a bound and gagged Lewis Hamilton!

- Published: 2014-08-15
- Modified: 2021-10-06
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/politically-incorrect-campaigns/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

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> "Think green" when it comes to more than just selecting Pantone colours. Follow this simple advice to become an eco-friendly graphic designer.

- Published: 2014-08-14
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/eco-friendly-graphic-designer/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

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> As fracking for oil and gas continues to split public opinion in the UK, we reveal the best protest posters ever created by the anti-fracking campaigners.

- Published: 2014-08-08
- Modified: 2021-01-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/best-ever-fracking-protest-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

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> Striking light and shadow, black and white photography by digital photographer Rupert Vandervall focuses on strong angles, concrete and people.

- Published: 2014-08-07
- Modified: 2022-06-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/light-and-shadow-black-and-white/
- Categories: Photography

(more... )

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> For the first episode in our new series of short films about typography and different typefaces, Solopress are celebrating the ubiquitous Helvetica font.

- Published: 2014-08-06
- Modified: 2020-12-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/5-things-you-might-not-know-about-helvetica/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

(more... )

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> What not to have: logo fails. From plain-right rude to face-palm level, terribly designed business logos. Hidden innuendoes and phallic-like icons.

- Published: 2014-08-06
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/business-logo-fails/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Check out the following graphic design sketches from PEZ Artwork: they destroy Disney, South Park, Super Mario Brothers and more with just paper and pen.

- Published: 2014-07-30
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/pez-artwork-distroy/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Due to perceived 9/11 likeness, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles poster gets pulled by the movie studio responsible for posting it up on Twitter and Facebook.

- Published: 2014-07-30
- Modified: 2019-07-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-poster-sparks-9-11-controversy/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Trade show season is near, and savvy businesses are preparing. Here are a few tips for creating great roller banners that will get your company noticed.

- Published: 2014-07-28
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/outstanding-roller-banners/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Roller Banners

(more... )

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> Quirky exhibition stands and booth ideas - from Cadburys to Audi and to Hermes. Original exhibition booths to inspire you at your up and coming exhibit.

- Published: 2014-07-25
- Modified: 2023-10-07
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/exhibitions-trade-shows/quirky-booths/
- Categories: Exhibitions & Trade Shows, Print Inspiration
- Tags: Exhibition Stands, Exhibitions

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> Here are a few ideas for rock star marketing, along with examples of musicians who are "doing it right" despite the challenges the industry is experiencing.

- Published: 2014-07-23
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/rock-star-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Posters

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> It was only a matter of time before the unassuming roll of toilet paper became the medium of choice for a paper artist, but are the results bog standard?

- Published: 2014-07-22
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/toilet-paper-roll-art-by-junior-fritz-jacquet/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Let the games begin! As Glasgow prepares for 11 days of sporting history, we take a look at its marketing history; past and present.

- Published: 2014-07-22
- Modified: 2019-05-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/commonwealth-games/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Funeral Order of Service using Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.

- Published: 2014-07-17
- Modified: 2023-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-funeral-order-of-service-booklet/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets, Order of Service

(more... )

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> Despite the recent increase in popularity, comic shop marketing needs to be more deliberate than ever, in order to be truly successful.

- Published: 2014-07-11
- Modified: 2019-05-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/comic-shop-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> Beautiful wedding paper craft inspiration: get inspired and learn how to create wedding garlands, flowers and cake toppers out of paper with these top tips.

- Published: 2014-07-09
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/paper-craft-decorations/
- Categories: Special Occasions
- Tags: Weddings

(more... )

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> Whether they're eye catching for their beautiful design or witty slogans, these business signs demand to be noticed.

- Published: 2014-07-07
- Modified: 2020-07-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/6-clever-business-signs/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Letterhead using Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.

- Published: 2014-07-07
- Modified: 2019-11-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-letterhead/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Business Stationery, Photoshop

(more... )

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> Amazing examples of bird's eye view photos from around the world and scroll to bottom of page for top tips when capturing your own. Venice, Mexico and more.

- Published: 2014-07-07
- Modified: 2019-06-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/amazing-birds-eye-view-photos/
- Categories: Photography

(more... )

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> Graphic Designer Alex Solis uses his creative powers to create characters like Bat Man, Snow White and Yoda into a fat series of the 'Famous Chunkies'.

- Published: 2014-07-03
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/fat-fictional-heroes/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Roller Banner using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.

- Published: 2014-07-01
- Modified: 2019-11-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-roller-banner/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop, Roller Banners

(more... )

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> Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Poster using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.

- Published: 2014-06-27
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-design-a-poster/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Photoshop, Posters

(more... )

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> Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a Wedding Invitation using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.

- Published: 2014-06-18
- Modified: 2021-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/wedding-invitation-photoshop-design-video-tutorial/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Invitations, Photoshop, Weddings

(more... )

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> HP unveil a new upgrade to their Indigo series with a new closed-loop colour control system, special effects and more to upgraded WS6800 & 7800 printers.

- Published: 2014-06-16
- Modified: 2019-05-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/new-upgrade-hps-indigo/
- Categories: Print Industry News

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> Quality printing doesn't have to cost the earth with high-tech, vegetable based eco inks. Solopress exclusively uses eco ink for all your printing needs.

- Published: 2014-06-13
- Modified: 2022-05-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/veggie-printer-eco-ink/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

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> Fathers: check out these amazing father-of-the-bride speeches to inspire your own. Take inspiration from this lot and wow the wedding guests.

- Published: 2014-06-11
- Modified: 2023-02-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/top-5-father-of-the-brides-speeches/
- Categories: Special Occasions

(more... )

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> Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a brochure using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.

- Published: 2014-06-11
- Modified: 2023-04-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/brochure-design-photoshop-video-tutorial/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets, Photoshop

(more... )

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> Tried and tested Hi-Tec hiking boots by Solopress' team. See our results and where we took the boots on their maiden walk along the Blackwater Estuary.

- Published: 2014-06-10
- Modified: 2019-05-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/hi-tec-tried-tested-hiking-boots/
- Categories: Solopress News

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> Paper artist Wuppes from Luxembourg is going back in time to recreate classic videogames like Super Mario World and Zelda as amazing 3D paper dioramas.

- Published: 2014-06-10
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/3d-paper-dioramas-of-classic-videogames/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> All of us think we have the world’s coolest-looking Business Card, but the LEGO company execs have a card up their sleeves that trumps everybody’s efforts!

- Published: 2014-06-09
- Modified: 2023-03-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/lego-minifig-character-doubles-business-card/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

(more... )

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> Michael Paulus draws famous cartoon characters from our childhoods and reveals their anatomy underneath. Pikachu, Betty Boop, Tweety, Blossom and more.

- Published: 2014-06-04
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/famous-cartoon-characters-anatomy/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> ESPN commissioned Brazilian artist and graphic designer Cristiano Siqueira to create these amazing 2014 FIFA World Cup posters.

- Published: 2014-06-03
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/32-world-cup-posters-brazilian-artist-cristiano-siqueira/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Solopress Adobe Creative Tips & Tutorials - Learn how to create a flyer or leaflet using Adobe Photoshop with our expert, easy-to-follow video tutorial.

- Published: 2014-05-23
- Modified: 2021-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/flyer-design-photoshop-video-tutorial/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Flyers & Leaflets, Photoshop

(more... )

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> McDonald’s kick off their World Cup 2014 campaign with an augmented reality mobile app that plays a virtual football game on their new fries packaging.

- Published: 2014-05-21
- Modified: 2021-01-16
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/mcdonalds-world-cup-2014-fries-packaging-app/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> Solopress presents our ‘How It Works’ video guide to Offset Lithographic Printing…

- Published: 2014-05-13
- Modified: 2023-10-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/offset-lithographic-printing/
- Categories: Print Industry News

(more... )

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> An unnamed Apple software engineer has commissioned this ultra-cool business card that’s actually made from a real iPhone screen!

- Published: 2014-05-12
- Modified: 2022-09-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/business-card-looks-like-iphone/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

(more... )

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> Save money and Ink with these eco-friendly font options for printing. Ryman Eco and EcoFont software will reduce your ink costs, and help the environment!

- Published: 2014-04-23
- Modified: 2020-06-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/eco-friendly-font/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

(more... )

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> Looking for the best font to liven up your Restaurant Specials Board or a whimsical script typeface to brighten your Menu? Try Risotto Script!

- Published: 2014-04-16
- Modified: 2020-12-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/font-day-risotto-script/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

(more... )

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> Take a look at these deliciously retro posters and print ads for Wall’s ice cream and lollies from the 1950s to 1990s.

- Published: 2014-04-15
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/walls-ice-cream-vintage-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> MiniBiGS make big fun with little pieces! Innovative US based custom Lego Minifig sellers take the world by storm with these little pad-printed wonders.

- Published: 2014-04-15
- Modified: 2019-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/minibigs-custom-pad-printed-lego-mini-figures/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> Belgian graphic designer Hugo Puttaert, founder of the design studio Visionandfactory in Brussels, urges all of us to Think in Colour in his latest book.

- Published: 2014-04-14
- Modified: 2019-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/think-in-colour-book-cover-changes-colour-when-touched/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> The Instagram account of Hey, a design studio in Barcelona, is featuring a new minimalist illustration of famous pop culture characters every day.

- Published: 2014-04-10
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/minimalist-pop-culture-character-illustrations/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> A pack of playing cards and a graphic design textbook all rolled into one, The Design Deck is a fun way to learn about Graphic Design.

- Published: 2014-04-09
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/the-design-deck-playing-cards/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Forget about golden balls and golden boots, the World Cup is a golden opportunity for your business to make money this summer.

- Published: 2014-04-07
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/world-cup-ways-to-make-money/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> The best alternative book covers from talented designers and artists around the web! From Origin of Species to Dune and Misery, check it out!

- Published: 2014-04-03
- Modified: 2023-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/15-awesome-alternative-book-covers/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Originally commissioned as a bespoke, dyslexic-friendly typeface for Castledown Primary School in Hastings, this font could now win a Design Museum award.

- Published: 2014-03-27
- Modified: 2020-12-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/font-of-the-day-castledown/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

(more... )

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> A camera store, gallery and coffee shop all rolled into one, Camera Cafe in London printed these waterproof encapsulated posters for their pavement A-board.

- Published: 2014-03-26
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/camera-cafe-encapsulated-posters-printed-by-solopress/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Even a Master Jedi could have missed some of these retro, original trilogy Star Wars movie posters from a galaxy and time that’s now far, far away.

- Published: 2014-03-13
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/retro-star-wars-movie-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Custom Twitter vending machine makes 3D printed Oreo Cookies for the attendees at SXSW Interactive Festival in Austin, Texas.

- Published: 2014-03-11
- Modified: 2022-06-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/oreo-cookies/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> Looking for menu design ideas? Whatever type of restaurant or takeaway you have, an eye-catching menu is essential. See our top 10 ideas.

- Published: 2014-03-06
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/10-inspiring-takeaway-restaurant-menu-ideas/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Officially endorsed by Mojang, 57Digital’s Minecraft Papercraft Studio App is a fun way to turn your virtual creations into real 3D paper models.

- Published: 2014-03-03
- Modified: 2019-06-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/minecraft-papercraft-studio-app/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Some of our favourite cake designs from around the world. From Lego to Minecraft, including ace of cakes and choccywoccydoodah!

- Published: 2014-03-03
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/special-occasions/10-amazing-cake-designs/
- Categories: Special Occasions

(more... )

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> We've had some interesting wedding stationary over the last few months, far shy of the traditional - but these handouts are just gorgeous.

- Published: 2014-02-25
- Modified: 2019-07-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/beautiful-wedding-invites-order-service-courtesy-solopress-printing/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Order of Service, Weddings

(more... )

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> School Prospectus Brochure Printing - Do first impressions really count? Well, they definitely do when it comes to school prospectuses.

- Published: 2014-02-24
- Modified: 2022-12-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/school-prospectus-brochure-printing/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

(more... )

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> Momot, the paper toy specialists from Seoul in South Korea, have launched a new range of Star Wars papercraft toys.

- Published: 2014-02-21
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/star-wars-papercraft-toys-by-momot/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> DHL's hilarious marketing troll, consists of tricking rivals TNT and UPS to parade large yellow boxes with "DHL is Faster" around city centres.

- Published: 2014-02-21
- Modified: 2019-05-12
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/dhl-tricks-rivals-advertising-clever-print-trick/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> With Macintosh fans celebrating today’s 30th anniversary of Apple’s groundbreaking computer, Solopress fondly look back at the Mac’s best ever print ads.

- Published: 2014-01-24
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/apple-macintosh-best-ever-print-ads/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> Shai Goitein’s smartphone-controlled paper airplane has raised the sky high sum of $1.1 million on Kickstarter!

- Published: 2014-01-22
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/worlds-most-advanced-paper-airplane/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> There’s no secret about the paradise of experiencing a Maldives adventure, thanks to the holiday brochure printing services of Solopress.

- Published: 2014-01-17
- Modified: 2019-07-02
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/secret-paradise-maldives-holiday-brochure/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

(more... )

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> Check out these amazing 3D Pixel Heart Cards for Valentines Day. Guaranteed to be a hit with Retro gamers & Minecrafters!

- Published: 2014-01-16
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/solopress-tutorial-3d-pixel-heart-cards-for-valentines-day/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Adobe adds exciting new 3D printing capabilities to today’s Photoshop CC update. Now you can prep print-ready 3D models in Adobe's flagship imaging toolbox.

- Published: 2014-01-16
- Modified: 2022-06-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/adobe-photoshop-cc-gets-3d-printing-update/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Photoshop

(more... )

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> Parallax websites are a great, interactive way to tell a story or display multiple items in a particular order without the user having to leave the page.

- Published: 2014-01-09
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/7-best-parallax-websites/
- Categories: Tutorials

(more... )

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> Making cupcakes is a glorious mix of baking and design. That’s why we are such big fans of these little sugar hits in the Solopress office!

- Published: 2014-01-03
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/tremendously-tasty-pop-culture-cupcake-designs/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

---

> Starting up your own cupcake business is a fun way to bring in a little extra cash. But in such a competitive market how can you stand out from the crowd?

- Published: 2014-01-02
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/scrumptious-cupcake-business-marketing-ideas/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

---

> NHS Smokefree Health Harms advertising campaign highlights the toxic effect of smoking on the heart, brain and lungs. And it’s not a pretty sight.

- Published: 2013-12-30
- Modified: 2019-05-15
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/new-anti-smoking-advertising-campaign-is-another-shocker/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> Optical illusionist Brusspup is back with another amazing visual trick. This time you’ll swear this papercraft T-Rex dinosaur is looking directly at YOU!

- Published: 2013-12-27
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/amazing-dinosaur-optical-illusion/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

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> Pantomime season is in full swing at a theatre near you right now. But which of these showbiz productions also boasts one of the best panto posters of 2013?

- Published: 2013-12-24
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/best-panto-posters-2013/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Master of the Poster Tom Eckersley is to be celebrated in a new London College of Communication exhibition that marks the centenary of his birth…

- Published: 2013-12-23
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/master-of-the-poster-exhibition/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> As a tribute to legendary actor Peter O’Toole, Solopress take a look at the movie posters inspired by his most famous role, Lawrence of Arabia…

- Published: 2013-12-16
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/lawrence-of-arabia-top-10-movie-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Making the right impression at Jimmy Jules London is paramount. That’s why choosing Solopress to print their jewellery stationery was an excellent choice.

- Published: 2013-12-13
- Modified: 2019-06-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/customer-spotlight-jimmy-jules-london/
- Categories: Customer Stories

(more... )

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> Hypnotist Alex Buxton of The Compass Tree tells us why people are entranced by his new hypnotherapy business cards printed by Solopress.

- Published: 2013-11-28
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/hypnotherapy-business-cards-subconsciously-impress-clients/
- Categories: Customer Stories
- Tags: Business Cards

(more... )

---

> The design of your Event Brochure should combine equal elements of eye catching design and content. Here's some tips on how to create the perfect brochure!

- Published: 2013-11-20
- Modified: 2019-07-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/5-tips-designing-event-brochure/
- Categories: Tutorials
- Tags: Brochures & Booklets

(more... )

---

> Featuring the likes of McDonald's and Nike, Computer Arts magazine have just published a new design book revealing the 50 best logos ever made.

- Published: 2013-11-18
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/50-best-logos-ever-designed/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Branding

(more... )

---

> These fantastic Pokémon Flat Designs would look great as your mobile device's wallpaper background OR as a kid's bedroom poster!

- Published: 2013-11-15
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/flat-design-hd-minimal-pokemon-wallpapers-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

---

> With the success of the 2012 London Olympics, Britain's sporting confidence has soared, boosting interest in local and national sporting events.

- Published: 2013-11-12
- Modified: 2019-09-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/promote-triathlon-sporting-event/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

---

> Before you rip open the packaging in your haste for a chocolate hit, take another look at the Cadbury Dairy Milk bar in your hand. It’s subtlety changed.

- Published: 2013-11-11
- Modified: 2019-07-05
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/cadbury-dairy-milk-chocolate-packaging-gets-new-look/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Branding

(more... )

---

> Gifpop is a new Kickstarter project that lets you create animated Business Cards made from GIFs using lenticular printing magic

- Published: 2013-11-08
- Modified: 2023-02-23
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/gifpop-turns-gifs-into-animated-business-cards/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Business Cards

(more... )

---

> Free Fonts for commercial use are hard to come by - check out this guide on how to get free fonts, and use them for your design projects!

- Published: 2013-11-07
- Modified: 2020-12-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/free-fonts-popular-free-fonts-commercial-use/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

(more... )

---

> No two restaurants are the same; therefore, no two ‘dining experiences’ are. Therein lies the key to achieving successful restaurant menu design and print!

- Published: 2013-11-04
- Modified: 2021-06-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/printing-restaurant-menus/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

---

> In the latest twist to the controversy over image manipulation, a video briefly re-surfaced on YouTube last week to remind us all of the power of Photoshop.

- Published: 2013-11-04
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/photoshop-image-manipulation-good-or-bad-thing/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Photoshop

(more... )

---

> Thor 2: The Dark World is in Cinemas as of today - and to celebrate the re-appearance of Thor, here's some 3D printed Mjolnir's from hardcore Thor fans.

- Published: 2013-10-30
- Modified: 2022-06-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/3d-printing-thors-hammer-mjolnir/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

---

> Whilst the aesthetics of printed material are undoubtedly important, the touch and feel of a piece of work can make a huge difference on the impact it has!

- Published: 2013-10-28
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/finishing-techniques/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

---

> Have you ever spent hours trying to configure the best font style for your print work? Here are some handy tips for choosing a font!

- Published: 2013-10-25
- Modified: 2020-12-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/considerations-when-choosing-font-styles/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

(more... )

---

> What are the best ways to promote your local football club in business and on the pitch? Find out in our marketing guide, packed with top tips and ideas...

- Published: 2013-10-22
- Modified: 2020-12-22
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/local-football-club-marketing-ideas/
- Categories: Customer Stories

(more... )

---

> Love it or hate it, the Helvetica font is omnipresent these days. But people are still finding ways to breathe new life into this famous Swiss typeface.

- Published: 2013-08-13
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/copywriting-typography/best-ever-uses-of-helvetica-font/
- Categories: Copywriting & Typography

(more... )

---

> Combining an innovative use of print and web technology, the world’s first automatic magazine newsstand is already up and running in Stockholm, Sweden.

- Published: 2013-07-19
- Modified: 2019-05-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/meganews-launch-the-worlds-first-print-on-demand-newsstand/
- Categories: Print Industry News

(more... )

---

> Our Top 5 round-up of today's cool stuff for web and print designers includes Saatchi's new UK poster advertising campaign for the MindFull youth charity.

- Published: 2013-07-11
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/print-advertising-innovative-posters-launch-new-uk-youth-charity/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> In celebration of Recycle Week, show your support for the environment AND make a massive saving by printing at Solopress.

- Published: 2013-06-21
- Modified: 2022-04-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/eco-friendly/green-printing/
- Categories: Eco Friendly

(more... )

---

> Our Top 5 round-up of today's cool stuff for graphic designers includes a fun personality test and IBM's innovative billboard ads including 8 bit heroes!

- Published: 2013-06-10
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/personality-test-what-kind-of-designer-are-you/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

---

> Solopress.com are pleased to announce the addition of a new Autobond Mini 76 TPHS Laminator to our growing range of high quality print finishing machinery.

- Published: 2013-05-01
- Modified: 2020-08-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/solopress-news/solopress-buy-new-autobond-laminator/
- Categories: Solopress News

(more... )

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> Inkygoodness, the experts in finding new and exciting talent in illustration and lowbrow art, have utilised beermats in their latest project.

- Published: 2013-04-25
- Modified: 2019-05-24
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/beermat-characters/
- Categories: Art & Design

(more... )

---

> Which? finds that UK shoppers are annoyed by imitation products. Solopress ask if you’ve ever been misled by copycat packaging.

- Published: 2013-04-12
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/copycat-packaging/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

---

> Solopress counts down their 5 top Hobbit minimalist posters in excitement for the release of the new film.

- Published: 2013-04-08
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/hobbit-mimimalist-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> With over 300 items chronicling his extraordinary career; ‘David Bowie is’ has become the hottest exhibition in London. Solopress investigates the most expensive prints.

- Published: 2013-03-28
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/david-bowie-5-most-expensive-prints-and-posters-at-victoria-and-albert-museum-exhibition/
- Categories: Photography
- Tags: Exhibitions, Posters

(more... )

---

> On St. Patrick’s Day, a pint of Guinness is customary. Check out these retro Guinness posters that got people into Guinness throughout the ages.

- Published: 2013-03-12
- Modified: 2020-06-09
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/st-patricks-day-10-classic-guinness-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

---

> Solopress have everything you need to promote your business and instantly impress your customers. Backed by our low prices and FREE next day delivery.

- Published: 2013-03-06
- Modified: 2019-07-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/free-sample-pack-today/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

---

> Direct thermal printing is a print method used by most retailers that does not require the use of ink. Read on to learn more about the processes involved...

- Published: 2013-03-04
- Modified: 2020-05-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/direct-thermal-print/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

---

> Ever since the first Monaco Grand Prix in 1929, drivers and racing fans the world over have been captivated by this exhilarating street race.

- Published: 2013-01-18
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/80-years-of-monaco-grand-prix-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Thermographic printing is a fantastic printing technique, commonly used on greeting cards, wedding invitations where a natural feel embossing is needed.

- Published: 2013-01-15
- Modified: 2022-06-28
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/thermographic-printing/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

---

> Solopress talks with print finishing experts Duplo International about their company and future print business predictions…

- Published: 2013-01-14
- Modified: 2019-05-15
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/the-future-of-print-finishing-by-duplo-internationals-marc-legge/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> In the first of our new series of behind-the-scenes videos about the printing industry, Solopress.com talks with print supplier Mayday Graphics.

- Published: 2012-12-17
- Modified: 2019-05-15
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/print-supplies-future-trends-by-mayday-graphic-products/
- Categories: Print Industry News

(more... )

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> Learn about Giclée printing whether you’re an artist that wants to reproduce a piece of original artwork or a buyer of fine art prints.

- Published: 2012-11-23
- Modified: 2019-05-31
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/understanding-giclee-printing/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> Forget about the latest James Bond film, Halo 4 on Xbox 360 is poised to be THE biggest entertainment premiere of the year to date.

- Published: 2012-11-05
- Modified: 2020-02-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/design-insight-10-insanely-great-halo-video-game-posters/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Follow Solopress on Instagram for your chance to win 10 Awesome Moustache Movies every week during November 2012.

- Published: 2012-11-01
- Modified: 2023-03-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/charitycommunity/solopress-staff-moustache-up-for-movember-mens-health-charity/
- Categories: Charity & Community, Solopress News

(more... )

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> Stoptober: How do I stop smoking? Just take a look at these terrifying anti-smoking campaign posters from around the world...

- Published: 2012-10-18
- Modified: 2020-02-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/design-insight-the-most-shocking-anti-smoking-posters-ever-made/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> While the basics of lithographic printing has changed very little for over a century, there’s been a total transformation in the way digital print works.

- Published: 2012-10-16
- Modified: 2019-06-20
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/5-reasons-why-solopress-love-digital-print/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> Secret Paradise’s aromatic fruit based spa treatments are heavenly. Spa director Nadia reveals why she’s also in paradise when it comes to Solopress!

- Published: 2012-09-25
- Modified: 2019-03-04
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/solopress-printing-spotlight-secret-paradise-london-spa/
- Categories: Customer Stories

(more... )

---

> Dragon’s Den, Britain’s second favourite business TV programme, returned to our screens last night. But what have been the show’s successes over the years?

- Published: 2012-09-10
- Modified: 2022-08-27
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/dragons-den-on-tv-top-5-most-successful-businesses/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> With millions of pages printed by Solopress.com every year, it’s fair to say we’ve seen some spectacular spelling mistakes in our time

- Published: 2012-05-22
- Modified: 2023-10-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/tutorials/how-to-avoid-spelling-mistakes-in-your-printing/
- Categories: Tutorials

(more... )

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> Jo Downs is one of the world’s leading fused glass designers. Her ethos is perfectly complimented by Solopress.com’s meticulously crafted printing.

- Published: 2012-05-14
- Modified: 2019-07-03
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/customer-stories/solopress-printing-spotlight-jo-downs-handmade-glass/
- Categories: Customer Stories

(more... )

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> How can you generate more interest in the fantastic products and services that your company provides? Special offers could be the answer!

- Published: 2012-05-09
- Modified: 2018-12-17
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/top-10-special-offer-ideas-for-your-business/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> With 15 unbranded white vans, Solopress discreetly deliver to businesses and homes all over London and the surrounding areas throughout the day.

- Published: 2012-04-03
- Modified: 2019-05-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/b2b-printing-and-delivery-service-london/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> Solopress.com big up some of the wicked club posters we’ve printed for leading Essex nightclub Mansion…

- Published: 2012-03-21
- Modified: 2022-04-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/art-design/club-posters-examples-tips-creative-design/
- Categories: Art & Design
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> How can you make YOUR nursery school stand out from the competition? Posters are a fantastic way to publicise your nursery school – for very minimal fuss and cost.

- Published: 2012-02-29
- Modified: 2023-05-25
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/nursery-school-poster-printing-marketing-tips/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Posters

(more... )

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> Baffled by all the choices and technical terms when you need your business cards, flyers, leaflets, brochures, posters or professionally printed?

- Published: 2011-11-07
- Modified: 2022-09-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/printing-buyers-guide/
- Categories: Print Inspiration

(more... )

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> What is a Flyer? What's the difference between a Flyer and a Leaflet? Confused? Check out Solopress' Glossary of Printing Terms...

- Published: 2011-08-30
- Modified: 2020-08-11
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/glossary-of-printing-terms/
- Categories: Print Industry News

(more... )

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> Event invitations are as important as the event itself. You have spent months planning the perfect event, but what is the use in all that planning if your invitations don't meet the cut?

- Published: 2011-08-23
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/photography/checklist-event-invitation/
- Categories: Photography, Special Occasions
- Tags: Invitations

(more... )

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> Spot Colour Printing uses a single (different) ink for each colour used, whereas the CMYK method uses only four colours: cyan, magenta, yellow and black.

- Published: 2011-08-02
- Modified: 2019-07-01
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/spot-colour-vs-cmyk-process/
- Categories: Print Industry News

(more... )

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> Printed and online Direct Marketing without a call-to-action is a bit like a joke without a punch- line, or a thriller without a climax.

- Published: 2011-07-21
- Modified: 2019-06-10
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/door-drop-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> During the credit crunch, gym memberships were sacrificed for sky boxes or foldaway exercise bikes as everyone, everywhere decided to economise

- Published: 2011-06-07
- Modified: 2021-12-13
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/gym-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing

(more... )

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> A swing tag can save the day when a sticky label just won’t do, thereby making swing tags the ideal labelling solution.

- Published: 2011-05-31
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-inspiration/swing-tags/
- Categories: Print Inspiration
- Tags: Swing Tags

(more... )

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> For most people a postcard is something that you send when on holiday, however many businesses are realising the value of postcards as a marketing tool.

- Published: 2011-02-01
- Modified: 2019-06-26
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/business-marketing/postcard-marketing/
- Categories: Business & Marketing
- Tags: Postcards

(more... )

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> How do you know which one is best for you and your business? We have tried to explain the difference between the two most common processes.

- Published: 2009-04-14
- Modified: 2023-10-29
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/print-industry-news/difference-between-digital-and-lithographic-printing/
- Categories: Print Industry News

(more... )

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---


## Pages

> Visit our blog for everything you need to know about print. Whether it's designing artwork, choosing products or using your finished articles, we've got it covered.

- Published: 2017-06-12
- Modified: 2021-04-21
- URL: https://www.solopress.com/blog/

Printed Gazebos for events: what to consider when choosing yours Solopress - June 23, 2025 Solopress supports Race4Business 2025 in aid of Havens Hospices Solopress supports Waddle-On-Sea and Havens Hospices Solopress welcomes Graphic Design students University Centre South Essex Meet the Large Format Team: the people and the presses behind the big stuff! var block_tdi_10 = new tdBlock; block_tdi_10. id = "tdi_10"; block_tdi_10. atts = '{"limit":"9","custom_title":"Latest posts","td_ajax_filter_type":"td_category_ids_filter","ajax_pagination":"load_more","block_type":"td_block_16","separator":"","custom_url":"","block_template_id":"","mx7_tl":"","mx7_el":"","m6_tl":"","post_ids":"","category_id":"","taxonomies":"","category_ids":"","in_all_terms":"","tag_slug":"","autors_id":"","installed_post_types":"","include_cf_posts":"","exclude_cf_posts":"","sort":"","popular_by_date":"","linked_posts":"","favourite_only":"","offset":"","open_in_new_window":"","show_modified_date":"","time_ago":"","time_ago_add_txt":"ago","time_ago_txt_pos":"","review_source":"","el_class":"","td_ajax_filter_ids":"","td_filter_default_txt":"All","td_ajax_preloading":"","f_header_font_header":"","f_header_font_title":"Block header","f_header_font_settings":"","f_header_font_family":"","f_header_font_size":"","f_header_font_line_height":"","f_header_font_style":"","f_header_font_weight":"","f_header_font_transform":"","f_header_font_spacing":"","f_header_":"","f_ajax_font_title":"Ajax categories","f_ajax_font_settings":"","f_ajax_font_family":"","f_ajax_font_size":"","f_ajax_font_line_height":"","f_ajax_font_style":"","f_ajax_font_weight":"","f_ajax_font_transform":"","f_ajax_font_spacing":"","f_ajax_":"","f_more_font_title":"Load more button","f_more_font_settings":"","f_more_font_family":"","f_more_font_size":"","f_more_font_line_height":"","f_more_font_style":"","f_more_font_weight":"","f_more_font_transform":"","f_more_font_spacing":"","f_more_":"","mx7f_title_font_header":"","mx7f_title_font_title":"Article title","mx7f_title_font_settings":"","mx7f_title_font_family":"","mx7f_title_font_size":"","mx7f_title_font_line_height":"","mx7f_title_font_style":"","mx7f_title_font_weight":"","mx7f_title_font_transform":"","mx7f_title_font_spacing":"","mx7f_title_":"","mx7f_cat_font_title":"Article category tag","mx7f_cat_font_settings":"","mx7f_cat_font_family":"","mx7f_cat_font_size":"","mx7f_cat_font_line_height":"","mx7f_cat_font_style":"","mx7f_cat_font_weight":"","mx7f_cat_font_transform":"","mx7f_cat_font_spacing":"","mx7f_cat_":"","mx7f_meta_font_title":"Article meta info","mx7f_meta_font_settings":"","mx7f_meta_font_family":"","mx7f_meta_font_size":"","mx7f_meta_font_line_height":"","mx7f_meta_font_style":"","mx7f_meta_font_weight":"","mx7f_meta_font_transform":"","mx7f_meta_font_spacing":"","mx7f_meta_":"","mx7f_ex_font_title":"Article excerpt","mx7f_ex_font_settings":"","mx7f_ex_font_family":"","mx7f_ex_font_size":"","mx7f_ex_font_line_height":"","mx7f_ex_font_style":"","mx7f_ex_font_weight":"","mx7f_ex_font_transform":"","mx7f_ex_font_spacing":"","mx7f_ex_":"","m6f_title_font_header":"","m6f_title_font_title":"Article title","m6f_title_font_settings":"","m6f_title_font_family":"","m6f_title_font_size":"","m6f_title_font_line_height":"","m6f_title_font_style":"","m6f_title_font_weight":"","m6f_title_font_transform":"","m6f_title_font_spacing":"","m6f_title_":"","m6f_cat_font_title":"Article category tag","m6f_cat_font_settings":"","m6f_cat_font_family":"","m6f_cat_font_size":"","m6f_cat_font_line_height":"","m6f_cat_font_style":"","m6f_cat_font_weight":"","m6f_cat_font_transform":"","m6f_cat_font_spacing":"","m6f_cat_":"","m6f_meta_font_title":"Article meta info","m6f_meta_font_settings":"","m6f_meta_font_family":"","m6f_meta_font_size":"","m6f_meta_font_line_height":"","m6f_meta_font_style":"","m6f_meta_font_weight":"","m6f_meta_font_transform":"","m6f_meta_font_spacing":"","m6f_meta_":"","ajax_pagination_next_prev_swipe":"","ajax_pagination_infinite_stop":"","css":"","tdc_css":"","td_column_number":2,"header_color":"","color_preset":"","border_top":"","class":"tdi_10","tdc_css_class":"tdi_10","tdc_css_class_style":"tdi_10_rand_style"}'; block_tdi_10. td_column_number = "2"; block_tdi_10. block_type = "td_block_16"; block_tdi_10. post_count = "9"; block_tdi_10. found_posts = "529"; block_tdi_10. header_color = ""; block_tdi_10. ajax_pagination_infinite_stop = ""; block_tdi_10. max_num_pages = "59"; tdBlocksArray. push(block_tdi_10); Latest postsAllArt & DesignBusiness & MarketingCharity & CommunityCopywriting & TypographyCustomer StoriesEco FriendlyEntrepreneursExhibitions & Trade ShowsPhotographyPrint Industry NewsPrint InspirationSolopress NewsSpecial OccasionsTutorialsMore Printed Gazebos for events: what to consider when choosing yours Solopress - June 23, 2025 Gazebos do more than keep the sun and the rain at bay. For event organisers, traders and commercial users, the right gazebo offers both... Solopress supports Race4Business 2025 in aid of Havens Hospices Danny Powell - June 11, 2025 Solopress is proud to support Havens Hospices as a sponsor of Race4Business 2025, a charity fun run that brings Essex businesses together in aid... Solopress supports Waddle-On-Sea and Havens Hospices Danny Powell - June 11, 2025 This summer, the streets of Southend will come alive with penguins. Not the real kind, of course—but an eye-catching colony of sculptures, forming a... Solopress welcomes Graphic Design...

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