Brochure Printing Guide

A brochure quote becomes much easier once five decisions are clear: purpose, size, page count, binding and quantity. This guide helps you choose without needing to know print terminology first.

1. Start with how the brochure will be used

Think about where it will be read and how long it needs to last. A short event handout has different needs from an annual report, product catalogue or training manual. The intended use helps determine the size, binding and paper.

2. Choose a practical finished size

• A5: compact, easy to carry and suitable for handouts, programmes and short company brochures.
• A4: more room for photographs, tables, diagrams and detailed information.
• Custom formats: useful when the design or content needs a square, landscape or unusual size. These are normally quoted separately.

3. Match the binding to the number of pages

• Stapled: a cost-effective option for shorter brochures and booklets. The total page count normally needs to be a multiple of four.
• Perfect bound: a square-spined finish for longer catalogues, reports and prospectuses.
• Wiro bound: useful for manuals, workbooks and documents that need to lie open.
• Hardback: suited to premium publications intended to be kept for a long time.

4. Choose paper for the job, not just the weight

Silk paper is a reliable choice for colour and photography. Uncoated stock has a softer feel and is easier to write on. Recycled stocks can support an environmental brief. A heavier cover adds protection, but it is not always necessary for a short-lived handout.

5. Confirm the quantity and delivery postcode

Print prices change with quantity, specification and delivery. If a standard product fits, use its online calculator. If not, send the quantity, size, page count and postcode through the quote form.

Artwork checklist

• Use the final finished size and include the required bleed.
• Keep important text and logos clear of the trim.
• Supply single pages in reading order unless the product guide says otherwise.
• Embed fonts and export one print-ready PDF.
• Check that the page count matches the selected product.

Compare stapled brochures, perfect-bound brochures and catalogue or prospectus printing, or browse the complete brochure range.