Why Your Printing Method Matters
The way your piece is printed affects how people see your brand. A sharp, clean brochure or postcard gives a professional impression. A dull or uneven print does the opposite.
Different methods use different processes, which change how your colors look, how fast your project moves through production, and what it costs per piece.
That’s why we spend time helping our clients choose the right method—not just the cheapest one.
As Tim Schreur explains:
“Sometimes it isn’t about what’s better, it’s about what’s right for the job. Offset has that soft, rich feel and exact color match, while digital gives you speed and flexibility. If you need it tomorrow, digital is your friend. But if you’re printing thousands, offset wins every time.”
Offset Printing: Classic Quality for Larger Runs
Offset printing is the traditional approach most people picture when they think of a printing press. It uses metal plates to transfer ink to paper, creating a consistent, high-quality finish.
It takes longer to set up, but once those plates are made, the press runs fast and smooth. That’s why offset is perfect for large quantities where you want every piece to look identical.
Why choose offset printing:
- You need accurate color matching (like Pantone colors for a brand).
- You’re printing hundreds or thousands of copies.
- You want a smooth, professional texture that feels premium.
Typical projects: catalogs, stationery, brochures, annual reports, or anything that needs to look flawless across large quantities.
If time isn’t tight and you want top-tier quality, offset printing gives you the best result for the cost.
Digital Printing: Fast, Flexible, and Great for Short Runs
Digital printing skips the setup plates and prints straight from a file. That makes it ideal for smaller batches or projects that need a quick turnaround.
It’s also the best option for personalized pieces—like mailers with individual names or variable data. You can change each printed piece without slowing down the process.
Why choose digital printing:
- You’re on a short timeline.
- You want to personalize each piece.
- You’re printing a smaller quantity and don’t need plates made.
Typical projects: postcards, flyers, invitations, and targeted direct mail.
Digital printing may have a slightly different finish compared to offset, but today’s technology produces vivid colors and clean results that most people can’t tell apart.
When to Choose Each Method
Here’s a quick side-by-side look to help you decide:
Project Type | Best Method | Reason |
Direct Mail Campaigns | Digital | Fast, customizable, and cost-effective |
Annual Reports | Offset | Consistent color and a polished look |
Event Invitations | Digital | Flexible quantities and quick delivery |
Catalogs & Brochures | Offset | Perfect for high-volume printing |
Business Cards & Stationery | Offset or Digital | Depends on paper, finish, and quantity |
Still unsure? That’s what we’re here for. We’ll talk through your goals, your timeline, and how you plan to use the materials, then help you choose the option that makes the most sense.
How Schreur Makes Printing Simple
Printing can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s how we keep things easy:
- Talk with our team. Tell us what you need printed, when you need it, and what matters most.
- Get a clear recommendation. We’ll help you choose the best method based on your goals, timeline, and budget.
- Relax while we handle it. Your project will be printed quickly, look great, and be backed by our 100% money-back guarantee.
We’ve been doing this for 79 years, and our goal hasn’t changed: make printing fast, friendly, and frustration-free.
Trusted by West Michigan Businesses and Beyond
From nonprofits sending appeal letters to manufacturers printing catalogs, local businesses count on Schreur Printing & Mailing to get it right.
We’re proud to combine modern equipment with good, old-fashioned care. Our family-owned shop in Holland runs on craftsmanship, reliability, and service that feels personal—because it is.
When we say “Print Starts Conversations,” we mean it. Every piece we print helps our clients connect with their customers, share their story, and grow their business.
Ready to Pick the Right Printing Method?
You don’t need to guess between offset and digital. We’ll guide you to the right choice and handle the details from start to finish.
Let’s make your next print project easy.