When you’re asking for an official price quotation from a company for a product or service, you will usually receive a sheet of paper with their letterhead. As the name implies, a letterhead is a printed heading on a piece of paper which indicates a business’ name, address, and other contact information. If you’re a business owner yourself, you definitely need to invest in letterhead printing. Not only does it make transactions look official, but it’s also a great way to make your branding consistent. When used with business cards, envelopes, notepads, folders, and similar products, letterheads can complete your set of printed advertising materials.
Getting Started on Letterhead Printing
Now, if you need letterheads printed out, here are some basic information that you need to know:
- Look for a reputable online printing company.
There are two printing options available: digital and offset. A desktop printer is used for digital printing. Although it gets the job done, ordering in bulk might have a longer turnaround time. On the other hand, if you want superior quality prints and a fast turnaround time, offset printing is the better choice. It uses state-of-the-art printing technology and huge printing presses. The setup may be a bit costly initially but if you will order more pieces and different types of printed products, the per piece price will be lower in the end.
- Familiarize yourself with the options for materials.
There are three different sizes for letterheads: the traditional 8.5” x 11” size; the legal-size letterhead which measures 8.5” x 14”; and the 11” x 17” tabloid size letterhead. The most popular thickness is 70# paper stock which comes in two variations – textured white linen and smooth standard white. You also have the option to print on just one side or both sides, and decide whether you want matching custom folders or a blank second sheet.
- Be consistent design-wise.
Perhaps the most important aspect of letterhead printing is the design. The letterhead should basically look like your company logo: similar font, colors, and design. Your contact information should be accurate, avoid typos, and do not overcrowd the space with too much text. Although letterheads are usually placed on top of the sheet, graphic designers have become more creative – placing letterheads on one side or at the bottom of the page.
With well-designed letterheads that have a look that’s consistent with your branding, you have a powerful advertising tool to use when communicating with your customers.