D - Printing Terminology and Facts

DL ENVELOPE

A standard envelope size measuring 110mm x 220mm which take A4 sheets, folded twice to 99 x 210mm.

DIECUTING

A finishing process whereby apertures or shaped edges can be cut in to single leaves of printed literature.

DIGITAL PROOF

A proof produced from computer files without the use of film or plates.  Various types from black and white and colour lasers to Rainbows and Iris proofs (trade names) are available.  They are of a reasonably high quality but not as accurate as Cromalins or wet proofs.

DIMENSIONS

Where possible, the dimensions of a printed document should be given with the height shown first, followed by the width – this may sound trivial, but misunderstandings over the dimensions of a job can have serious cost implications.

DOT GAIN

A technical issue which affects the printing process where the size of the printed dot differs from that which was intended in the original design.  This can affect colour values if steps are not taken to compensate for it during the origination stage.  

DUMMY

An unprinted sample of a proposed job made up with the actual materials and cut to size to show bulk etc.