Design Tips to Make Your Printed Materials Stand Out

Why Good Design Still Matters in Print

Even in a digital-first world, printed materials remain one of the most powerful ways to create a lasting impression. From business cards and flyers to banners and brochures, print gives your brand something tangible — something your audience can hold, see, and remember. The key to making your prints truly effective? Great design.

Here are a few professional design tips from Elite Printing Group to help your next project stand out and leave a lasting mark.

1. Keep It Clean and Focused

Cluttered layouts confuse readers. Instead of trying to say everything at once, focus on one clear message per piece — whether that’s promoting a product, event, or service. Use white space intentionally to give your content room to breathe and draw attention to what matters most.

Pro tip: A simple, well-balanced layout often looks more professional — and prints more clearly — than one overloaded with text or images.

2. Choose Colors That Pop (and Print Well)

Colors look different on paper than on screens. Always design in CMYK color mode to ensure accurate print results. Bright, high-contrast color combinations tend to grab attention, but make sure they align with your brand palette for consistency across all your marketing materials.

Example: A deep navy background with gold or white text can feel luxurious, while bold red and black create energy and urgency.

3. Use High-Resolution Images

Low-resolution photos can ruin an otherwise great design. Always use 300 DPI or higher images to avoid pixelation or blurriness. If you’re unsure, ask your printer to check image quality before finalizing your proof.

Pro tip: Avoid pulling photos directly from websites or social media — they’re often compressed and unsuitable for print.

4. Pay Attention to Fonts and Readability

Typography can make or break a design. Stick to two or three fonts at most, and make sure your text is easy to read from a normal viewing distance. Avoid overly decorative fonts for body copy.

Font pairing idea: A clean sans-serif (like Helvetica or Lato) for text, paired with a distinctive serif (like Playfair Display) for headlines.

5. Don’t Forget About Bleeds and Margins

To ensure your design prints edge-to-edge without unwanted white borders, always include a ⅛-inch bleed around your artwork. Keep important text and logos at least ¼ inch inside the trim line to prevent cutting errors.

Pro tip: Ask your print provider for templates that already include proper bleed and margin guides — it’ll save time and prevent reprints.

6. Use Texture and Finish to Add Impact

Your design doesn’t end on the screen — the feel of your print matters too. Adding texture or finish can elevate your piece from good to unforgettable.

• Matte finish: Smooth and professional; perfect for business cards or brochures.

• Gloss finish: Vibrant and eye-catching; ideal for images and product photos.

• Soft-touch or velvet coating: Luxurious feel that adds perceived value.

• Spot UV or foil stamping: Great for highlighting logos or headlines.

7. Keep Your Branding Consistent

Every printed piece should reflect your brand identity — colors, fonts, tone, and logo placement. Consistency builds trust and recognition over time. If you’re working with multiple designers or creating various marketing materials, keep a brand style guide handy to ensure everything aligns.

8. Partner with a Professional Printer

Even the best design can fall flat if the print quality doesn’t match. At Elite Printing Group, our team ensures every color, cut, and coating is handled with precision. We’ll help you choose the right paper stock, finishes, and formats so your design shines in the real world — not just on screen.

Conclusion

Designing for print isn’t just about making something look good — it’s about creating something that feels professional, purposeful, and true to your brand. By focusing on clarity, color accuracy, and consistency, your printed materials can stand out from the competition and leave a memorable impression.

Ready to bring your next project to life?
👉 Get a Quote from Elite Printing Group and let’s make your design unforgettable.