Desktop publishing - The use of a computer to create documents that can be printed. Specialised software is used to add copy (i.e. text) and graphics to the document, which is then sent to a printer or typesetting equipment.
Die-Cutting – The use of a sharp, formed piece of metal to cut out- and score specific shapes in a piece of paper. We do this in-house for clients.
Digital - Data processed using the numbers 0 and 1 through on/off impulses.
Digital camera - A type of camera that stores the photographed image electronically, rather than on film. The images are downloaded into a computer where they can be manipulated in a manner similar to a scanner.
Digital printing - New printing technology that permits the linking of printing presses to computers. Benefits include faster turnaround times - and is very good for on-demand printing, lowered production costs on small to medium production runs (i.e. 1 copy to 2000 copies), and the ability to personalise documents - that is, each document in your production run can be different from every other document. This is very good for personalised brochures, newsletters, etc.
Dot – The basic constituent of a halftone.
Dot gain - The spread of ink on paper, causing the dots that make up the image to print at a larger size than they were on the film or plate. The images may become distorted, appearing darker with less clarity.
Dots per Inch (DPI) - DPI stands for dots per inch. The more dots per inch, the higher quality your image will be. It is a measure of the resolution of a screen image or printed page. Do not go higher than 300-400 dpi, as more dpi also means bigger files and longer transfer time. Also, stay away from under 300 dpi. Images found online are commonly viewed at 72 dpi, and they should not be used for four-colour digital printing (they are meant to be seen on computer screens only). For optimum results, make sure your image is at 300 dpi resolution.
Dull Finish – Paper with little or no gloss.
Dummy - A preliminary layout showing the position of illustrations and text as they are to appear in the final reproduction. A set of blank pages made up in advance to show the size, shape, form and general style of a piece of printing.
Duotone colour - reproduction from a monochrome original, such as a black and white photograph. Two halftones with different screen angles are made from the same original and printed in register with two colours.
Duplex – Printing the reverse side of a sheet already printed on one side (Backing up).
Dynamic range - The range of tones from lightest to darkest a scanner can see and resolve.
