Catdi Printing

Author: Carlos Alonso

  • The Importance of Quality Printing in Business

    By Kathi Scrizzi Driscoll

    Over the course of the last few decades printing has become extremely accessible to the general public. Nevertheless, there is a good reason why there are so many printing services today. Although printing at home can be great for personal use, marketing your business requires something only printing services can provide.

    Not only will working with a professional printing company ensure you have quality products, but it can also lead you to have a more successful marketing campaign. For example, if you decide to create a direct mail marketing campaign, you can rely on a printing company to provide you with some great tips and design ideas.

    By trusting a printing service to do the heavy lifting for you, you can get a high return on investment and position your business on the market. “The duty of a printing company is to help clients execute successful marketing campaigns and provide assistance and support every step of the way. But the backbone of every good campaign is high-quality printing because it helps represent your brand in the best possible light,” notes Carlos de Santos, president of Catdi Printing.

    Now, you may be thinking whether direct mail marketing really works in this day and age and if it’s worth the hassle. But despite what you may think, direct mail is far from dead. The average person gets dozens of emails daily, but the number of letters you receive in your mailbox on a regular day is much smaller. Because of this, direct mail is more memorable and likely to convince someone to check out your business. Of course, you will have to print more than just promotional material you send via mail.

    Keep in mind that many of your potential customers will get introduced to your business through printed materials like brochures, postcards, banners, business cards, and posters. If they notice poor quality materials and ink, you won’t make a good first impression on them. According to an article published by Forbes, consumers are more engaged when reading printed material compared to reading information on websites.

    This means that you will have to use high-quality printing if you want to have high retention rates. After all, you can’t expect a consumer to become interested in the products and services you provide if your promotional material features smudged letters and dull colors. It takes about 10 seconds for a person to make a first impression, which is why quality printing is imperative. This will reflect the standards you set in your company. It shows that you care how you present your business to potential customers.

    Know that many consumers will actually take the time to appreciate printed ads as long as they’re clever, which is something that is nearly impossible to achieve when making online ads. Most people don’t even look at ads when they’re online simply because they are everywhere. However, if you provide them with something that they can actually hold, you’ll be more likely to trigger a reaction from consumers. Of course, apart from quality printing and a clever advertisement, you will also need to add value to your promotional material. You can do this by offering consumers a discount or bonus to every person you sent the printed advertisement to.

    If you want to have a successful business then you will need to market it properly. Even though digital marketing is a great and cost-efficient way to reach consumers, you’ll get a much higher return on investment if you promote your business through traditional methods as well. But keep in mind that print marketing takes a lot more time and effort and should be planned carefully. Apart from creating a smart and simple message that will grab the attention of consumers, you must also use quality printing in order to give a good first impression of your business.

  • Malware Infected Your WordPress Blog and WordPress Hosting Environment?

    Malware Infected Your WordPress Blog and WordPress Hosting Environment? Catdi Can Help

    Along with hacking attempts, malware is another common experience these days for website owners. WordPress is one of the world’s most popular web hosting platforms, and that makes it particularly vulnerable. With every passing day, bad actors are finding new ways to create software that automatically exploits holes in security. Malware is particularly rough because it can easily go undetected.

    Has your website been acting up or slower than usual?

    There are a number of reasons your website experience could be slowing down. The prime concern if this is happening to you is the possible presence of malware. Rest assured, if your website has been slowing down, we can fix the problem no matter what it is. But the presence of malware is very serious, and determining if your website has been infected is priority one.

    This is a problem that is very routine, common, and not going away any time soon. Unfortunately, malware is specifically designed to exploit problems in out-of-date software. This can include your main platform as well as plug-ins and features of your website. This requires constant, routine monitoring and updating. Even with these up to date, problems can still occur.

    Has your website been getting errors from your browser?

    If your website has been generating a number of errors from your browser, it is very likely a malware issue. Of course, you want your pages and site features to load properly regardless, but this may point to malware as the cause. If so, that’s a very serious issue.

    Common error messages include a range of messages that indicate no server response, 404’s, that relay that your browser was unable to communicate with the host or specific messages within your website layout about a plug-in or feature. Additionally, you may even receive a message from your anti-virus or anti-malware program on your computer, or the browser itself may refuse to load the website.

    Has your host provider quarantined your website?

    If your web host has determined that you have been infected, your website will be quarantined. What that means is your website has been shut off to outside access. Just as people are quarantined when they are sick, so too has your website. This means you are losing sales and it projects a poor image. Your website visitors do not want to provide their trust to a website that’s been quarantined.

    Obviously, you want to fix this problem immediately, but it does no good to get your website back up and running only to have this happen again. Without the core problems addressed, this is precisely what will happen. Fixing the problem once and not developing a game plan is throwing money away and will eventually destroy your reputation in full.

    Fast Turnaround in fixing your website

    If you’re suffering any of these problems, you need to act fast to prevent further catastrophic problems to not only your website but your business and its reputation. We take these matters very seriously, and so should you.

    By hiring Catdi, A Houston based web design and marketing firm,  you’ll get our years of experience in tackling precisely these problems. We pride ourselves on not only getting it done right but getting it done fast. We then provide a game plan to prevent these issues from ever happening again.

    You have enough to focus on with your website, so let us handle the technical details of keeping you safe and secure at Catdi.

  • Website Hacked? Catdi is here to help you – FAST


    We had to learn this the hard way! It’s unfortunately becoming a common news headline: another website, even that of a major retailer, hacked. Compromised security on a website is no joke: not only can it compromise your information, the information of your customers, and lead to increased costs and decreased revenue, but it also lowers the confidence your customers place in you.

    Maybe you’re a major retailer for your area, and your website being hacked could generate headlines. Even if that’s not the case, your customers will surely know. You’ve worked hard to earn your customers, so don’t let a hacking problem grow. Fast, decisive action is necessary, and Catdi is here to help you fast.

    We specialize in fixing and updating WordPress websites

    When it comes to WordPress, there’s no doubt it’s one of the—if not the—most popular website platforms in the world. It bills itself as easy to use and infinitely customizable. Unfortunately, it does have a lot of problems. The tradeoff for its popularity and vast customization is that it requires constant attention and routine updating.

    This creates many opportunities for infiltration by bad actors looking to exploit out-of-date websites, or those not being properly monitored. Yes, hackers specifically will target known vulnerabilities. Not having expert control over your WordPress environment is like a welcome sign on your website for hackers.

    We can secure your hosting environment

    Thankfully, securing your web host is simple. It requires merely ensuring you have expert, diligent care on hand to monitor for routine updates and exploits. Unfortunately, simple doesn’t mean easy. This is a simple concept that in practice becomes a lot of work. It requires knowing a lot about WordPress and its many plugins, and constantly staying informed.

    There is no reason for you to do this hard work yourself. In fact, you shouldn’t. Trust an expert to the technical side of your website, so you can focus on what you do best—getting customers and generating revenue. We’ll make sure that’s all you need to focus on!

    We’re pros in fixing and locating issues with your website

    Not only are we fluent in WordPress, but we understand its many plug-ins and add-ons. Learning everything you need to prevent successful hacking would require years of experience and training, and ultimately distract you from your goals with your website, such as generating more traffic.

    Don’t worry about getting experienced overnight in order to fix your website. Experience comes over time, and successfully diagnosing and fixing WordPress time requires a lot of experience. Luckily, we have that. Don’t stick yourself with taking courses and frustrating yourself over every technical detail. We’ll check for updates and security fixes to your plugins and main platform routinely.

    Fast Turnaround

    If you’ve suffered a recent breach, don’t worry! Act fast and hire Catdi to fix these issues. The sooner you act, the less damage to your website, customer base, and reputation you’ll sustain. If it’s early enough, we can mitigate the damage almost entirely. So act fast, because your problem is serious!

    We’ll act fast, too, and provide an immediate game plan to prevent this from ever happening again. You can rest assured, we fix it once and forever!

    You have enough to focus on as a website owner—generating content, marketing, retaining customers, generating revenue—let Catdi keep you secure!

  • Need a WordPress Pro? Don’t forget about your WordPress website as WordPress needs to be updated ALL THE TIME


    As we ring in the new year its that time again that we review our marketing efforts and make sure we taking the correct steps in web security. For many business owners, WordPress is an attractive solution to their e-business needs. WordPress is extremely popular, so there are countless plug-ins, themes, extensions, and even online documentation about WordPress. It’s easy to get your website up and running, even if it does require a bit of work and there’s a learning curve. But once it’s up and running, you’ve done it, and now you just need to promote your website!

    Not so fast. In reality, because WordPress is one of the most popular web hosts in the world, that means hackers and other bad actors are routinely finding exploits or vulnerabilities in its code. It’s a numbers game—the more popular WordPress, the more hackers it attracts, and then the more successful hackers are in finding problems. The solution is for WordPress to quickly react and issue updates. But do you know how to do that?

    Catdi Can Update Your WordPress Website

    Catdi has years of experience with WordPress and its many security intricacies. We are constantly monitoring it for news and updates. While this is a complicated issue, this is simply what we do. We can update your blog and keep it updated without the need for you to get distracted from what you do, which should be getting new eyeballs to your website and turning them into customers. Don’t get bogged down in the technical details of website updates.

    Catdi Can Update Your WordPress Plugins

    Even with an updated WordPress, the individual plugins, because they are made by a number of different programmers and not one core group of engineers, have their own vulnerabilities and constant updates. The number of plugins you’re utilizing on your blog is probably higher than you think! Many blogs have 10, 20, or more plugins. Constantly monitoring all these plugins for updates and security issues would require a ton of work. But we’re experts in this field, and our passion is securing your website, including its plugins.

    Catdi Can Design a New Website

    Perhaps your website is many years old, and it’s time for an update. Or perhaps you tried to make a website yourself, learning all the hard details and patching together what you could, but you’re just not satisfied. Rather than plug holes on a sinking ship, entrust experts like Catdi to build you a new, beautiful, easy-to-use website from scratch! In doing so, your website will not only get an aesthetic and functional facelift, but we’ll ensure you have zero security concerns. We can do all of this while keeping your existing website content!

    Catdi Can Make Your Website a Marketing Tool

    Many people realize websites are important, but did you know your website can itself draw customers in? There are many tips and tricks out there, but employing them successfully requires a wealth of knowledge and a lot of trial and error. At Catdi, that’s what we do. We’ll employ the best methodologies to test and deploy features that make your website a magnet for customers.

    Catdi Can Provide Resources on Making Your Website Safe and Secure

    Catdi wants you to be empowered. That’s why we want you to have a beautiful, functional, safe, and profitable website. We can help you in all of these areas. But we also want you to have the set of keys as well, which is why we give you access to all the resources you need to be in control of your website’s safety and security.

    It’s time to take control of your website again. Entrust Catdi with renewing your website and making it a customer magnet, so you can focus on what you do best—running your business.

  • How Sponsoring A Scholarship As a Local Business Can Generate Sales and Goodwill From The Community

    We at Catdi Printing believe that you can both help others and at the same time help your business. In fact this is the very reason we created our on Catdi Printing Sponsorship. Our specific sponsorship is geared those that are interested in getting a graphic design or a multi-media degree. Sponsoring a scholarship for a local business can be a great thing to do and it can also help business. Not only will you most likely have the business of the family that have members that have earned the scholarship but also have created a positive image in the community. This is a great marketing opportunity as the scholarship can be associated with helping the community, getting outstanding grades, or a combination of positive factors. This by association can allow the business to be viewed with all of these values. The following are ways that sponsorship a scholarship as a local business is just an all-around great thing to do for business and as a local staple of the community.

    Advertising the Scholarship

    Market and advertise the scholarship so local students can start working towards it. If you have a website it might make sense to dedicate a page or a post about the specifics of the scholarship.  Presentation is very important and you want to build trust. You want to use a professional marketing firm to make flyers and brochures like Catdi Printing :). Refusal to use a professional company can reflect poorly on the company that is providing the scholarship. This can even look illegitimate in some cases as there are far too many pranks like fake scholarship websites. Reach out to principals at local high schools to help get the word out as well. Getting high school students talking about a great opportunity like this can really spread to their parents as well as those in their social circle.

    Local Media Attention

    The local media loves a company that gives back to the local community regardless of the size of the donation, scholarship, or cost to sponsor a cleanup. Printing companies that are not active in the community and might be a part of a national chain might not have the recognition of a locally based business. People in the community have used this business and some might have worked there at one point or another. Reach out to local media outlets to help spread the word of the scholarship as it will act as free advertising as well as get the word out. Be ready if you are the founder of the business to be interviewed though as a shaky interview can make the media attention less effective as far as boosting sales or goodwill.

    Local businesses should give back to the community that support them but it can be a mutually beneficial arrangement when offering a scholarship. Take the time to see what your local community values and offer a scholarship in your company’s name as it will have a great ROI even if done out of charity.

  • Top 5 EDDM Design Tips for Small Business Owners

    Using Every Door Direct Mail service helps to attract more customers to your business. As an affordable form of marketing, Every Door Direct Mail or EDDM allows a business to experience a higher ROI and enables customers to take action

    The convenience and simplicity of EDDM further contribute to its effectiveness as a marketing strategy. The process involves selecting a specific area or route where the business wants to target, designing eye-catching promotional materials, and submitting them to the USPS for distribution. The USPS then delivers the materials directly to every mailbox within that chosen area, ensuring maximum exposure and visibility.

    EDDM program enables customers to take immediate action. By placing compelling offers, discounts, or calls to action on the promotional materials, businesses can entice recipients to engage with their brand. Whether it’s visiting the store, checking out the website, or making a purchase, EDDM provides a direct pathway for customers to interact with the business, increasing the chances of conversions and fostering customer loyalty.

    The good news is that there are hundreds of postcard designs. Selecting the appropriate design for your business can be a bit tricky. Lucky for you, we have compiled tips to help you select the right template. Even when you want to design your own EDDM template, the tips below will help you formulate ideas assuring you of success.

    Tip #1 – Outline the purpose of your postcard

    The first step to take is to craft the purpose of your postcard. This can be achieved by answering the following question – What would you like your postcard to achieve?

    Tip #2 – Incorporate your business logo

    Yes, you need to incorporate your business logo on your postcard. As a result, it will give your postcard credibility. Don’t forget to add images and the theme colors of your business. To ensure your images are of high quality, opt for high resolution images.

    Tip #3 – Choose an appealing design

    If you are targeting a specific group of customers, design the EDDM postcard with an appealing design. This will attract the customers to your advertisement.

    Tip #4 – Simplify the design

    To come up with a design that conveys your message, keep it simple. Avoid adding too much information on the postcard as this makes it difficult for the customer to understand the message being conveyed.

    Tip #5 –Print postcards in color

    Color brings the message to life. Use contrasting colors to enhance the look of your postcard. There are free EDDM postcards readily available online which you can redesign and print out before sending to your customers.


    Lastly, our graphic designers are proficient in incorporating call-to-actions (CTAs) into the design. They will strategically place CTAs that prompt recipients to take the desired action, whether it’s visiting your website, making a purchase, or contacting you for more information. Our designers understand the importance of compelling CTAs and will make sure they stand out and entice the recipients to act.

    In conclusion, our seasoned graphic designers are the perfect resource to design your EDDM postcard. Their expertise, attention to detail, and creativity will ensure that your postcards not only look visually stunning, but also effectively communicate your message and drive desired actions. Whether you need a brand-new design or a professional touch on your existing one, our designers are here to bring your vision to life and help you achieve your marketing goals.

  • Business Goal Setting For Achieving Success and Why Catdi Wants to Help You!

    Business Goal Setting For Achieving Success and Why Catdi Wants to Help You!

    Business Goal Setting For Achieving Success and Why Catdi Wants to Help You!

    It is important to set goals to ensure success in your business venture. History is replete with instances where faulty business goal setting, or the lack of it, has led to business failure. Your business will go adrift if you do not provide it the right direction. You may set a goal of doubling your sales in six months, but find no progress at the expiry of the deadline.

    Goal setting is not all about setting goals and watching your business grow. You will have to have a larger business goal setting strategy in place to achieve success.

    The strategy should include a series of resolute actions to give impetus to what you have set out to achieve through your goals. You have to go ahead and make things happen, rather than waiting for things to happen.

    Setting Goals the Right Way
    Writing down your goals will be the first step to help you steer your business in the right direction. Try to analyze how your goals will affect your clients or customers, and competitors.

    Next, perceive the possible hurdles that you are likely to face in achieving your goals. Mark them out and see what you can do about them. Lack of finances and inadequate staff can put you off track. You need not be very rigid about your goals, as flexibility provides you with an opportunity to revise the goals according to business constraints.

    Make sure that the goals are practical and achievable, given the resources at hand. Your next important step will be to determine the series of actions you intend taking in attaining the goals. You will also have to develop plans to overcome the constraints and find solutions related to issues concerning your goals. Make sure that you take steps one at a time and review your progress periodically.

     

    The process of business goal setting and concerted efforts in the right direction to achieve it will certainly ensure business success.

  • Direct Mail Postcards… Designing Your Mini Billboard

    Direct Mail Postcards… Designing Your Mini Billboard

    Direct Mail Postcards… Your Mini Billboard
    One of the cheapest ways to do direct mail marketing is to use direct mail postcards by Catdi Printing.

    We love direct mail postcards (simply put) and here are easy ways to get them designed.

    Direct mail postcards are like mini billboards! They are great ways  to get receiver’s attention, so they will act on your marketing message. Be sure you always include as much contact information as you can, remembering that not everyone is online. Some do not have long distance phone service and others want to contact you through postal mail so having the right information is key.

    Designing the Postcards
    Add graphics or photos that are related to your promotion and use the same rules as you use for writing basic display ads. Direct mail postcards are one of the best bargains today in direct mail marketing and should never be overlooked! While we recommend that you have us or a professional graphic designer to design your piece there are free graphic design apps like Canva if you want to skimp of design.

    In addition another great way to avoid a design fee is if you belong to a MLM program many times they will offer you postcards already designed for a small fee. You may have to add your own code to be sure you get credit when someone responds to the offer. If you plan to design your post card for a MLM program you belong to, be sure to get approval before you have them printed as some companies have rules regarding such creations. However our printing rates are more than likely cheaper….

    When you design direct mail postcards yourself, be certain you use a size that fits into the guidelines of the postal service at www.usps.com. You don’t want to have them too large unless you are willing to pay the higher postal rate. Don’t worry we can help with this. You can also design postcards with such programs as, Adobe, Ms Publisher, MyMailList, Print Shop and others.

    Of course, your mailing list for your post cards is vital, and you can find out more about that by going to our mailing list website page.

    It is very easy to attach your mailing labels and postage stamps to your new post cards while you are watching TV, waiting for an appointment or simply relaxing.One of the things to remember is to be consistent when you design your postcards. If you can only afford to mail out 500 a week that is okay! Just be sure to do it every week to be consistent and generate regular sales which means income for you!
    Recommended Resources same price.

    Be Patient…
    Be sure to have some patience, as often people do not respond immediately to direct mail marketing, no matter what is being offered, or how. Also it may take the MLM you belong time to give your credit for your referrals. This gives you time to keep mailing and try different postcard designs to see which one works best for you!

  • Going the Extra Mile for Your Customers – The Catdi Printing Difference

    Going the Extra Mile for Your Customers – The Catdi Printing Difference

    Going the extra mile for your customers requires you to offer something extraordinary to them that they did not expect from you. This definitely gives you more business. If you want to achieve your goals in business, putting 100 % of your capacity is not enough. You have to perform little extra to outperform others. Its hard work to do this consistently but the pros at Catdi Printing are dedicated to making sure your job turns absolutely amazing. However it is what motivates us the same time.

    What distinguishes successful people from others? Most people do what they want to do. On the other hand, successful people do what is needed to accomplish the goals.

    Do It with a Smile
    When you enter a store to buy something, you find the employees with sad faces, without showing any desire to attend to you. How would you react? Chances are, you would leave without buying a single item. On the contrary, smiling faces with zeal and innate desire to attend to the customer makes environment conducive for buying. Same rules apply to the online business too. Put an extra effort while designing your website. Make procedure for taking orders very easy. Customers are happy with as minimum the number of clicks as possible, to get information about your product or service.In online businesses, visitors to your website expect free information. Make your website user friendly. This makes you more credible and reliable. Nothing can impress potential customer more than free and forthright information.

    Happy Customers at Catdi Printing! 🙂

    Delivery also needs to be very fast. Customers should be able to receive the products without any delay, after making payments. Offer the option of how he would like the product to be shipped. A complaining customer is an opportunity, if you wish to go that extra mile. Attend to him with a smile on your face. Solve his problems at the earliest possible. Thank him for bringing the complaint to you.

    This converts an unsatisfied customer into a person who has faith in you. His word of mouth praise may bring in many potential customers.

    About the Author
    Carlos deSantos is a leading direct response marketing expert who works with businesses by improving their online and offline performance. Learn how to improve your marketing with the help personal and business development. Call Catdi Printing today to learn more how we can help your business in all print and web marketing needs.

     

     

  • Designing Printed Material For Different Platforms

    Designing Printed Material For Different Platforms

    An Interesting Read especially if you love history!

    Despite what many people are claiming, print media is still a mainstay in today’s society. We may have heard of some publishing companies and magazines that are getting bankrupt and are switching to the online platform, but don’t fret, there are still newspapers and magazines that are standing strong despite today’s economy. Print media has existed for centuries, with it taking a large leap in the 13-1400s, with the invention of the printing press in Europe. The invention allowed the printing of books on a mass scale, as the books in the past were manuscripts (books that were written by hand) that not only had words, but also fancy artwork and stylish texts that took too long to write and were not really mass produced. The method of the printing press was simple; take a metal block of letters with ink, place firmly them on a tablet, then stick the block on the paper and you have a printed page. The way they designed printed material in the past was pretty simple, and we still make use of it today, just take a quick look on one of the books on your study table in order to find out. Designing printed material is now a major, multi-million business, with tons of competitors popping out in the past decades. Books and one page pamphlets were the only printed material centuries ago, but now, we have not only newspapers and magazines, but also large scale format prints like billboards, banners and signage. Smaller ones include brochures, leaflets and newsletters. The material in which they are printed has also changed, from fragile paper and expensive parchment; large format prints have effectively made use of fabrics and tarpaulins. There may be a lot of ways of designing these materials, but here are some useful tips and tricks on easily getting your message across.

    In designing small formats, go with what is proven effective. Small format prints are just usually bite-sized pieces of paper with text or graphics printed on them. These include brochures and leaflets. These are mainly utilized as small advertising tools that are being handed out to potential customers – usually people who are passing by. The best way to design these materials is by implementing a straightforward design. An image and a bunch of text clumped together would do wonders. Immediately state your intentions, the product you are promoting and where you can avail it.

    Newspapers and Magazines. Mass produced newspapers and magazines are the first forms of mass media in the world, followed by the radio five centuries later. In designing these materials, of course, you should go by the rules and these are mostly journalistic concepts and rules. These usually need the help of a professional journalism layout artist, so be sure to avail of that service.

    Large scale prints. These take the form of banners, billboards and signage. Creating, designing and printing large scale graphics takes a lot time and brain power, since you have to create a lot of new branding and advertising strategies. In designing these materials, be sure to be able to emphasize the product along with logo along with the brand name. Also remember that you are not printing on a paper-like material, you are going to place the content on a fabric or a tarp.

  • 9 Envelope Printing Tips Guaranteed to Get Your Mail Opened

    9 Envelope Printing Tips Guaranteed to Get Your Mail Opened

     

    A common problem with sending mail is actually getting it opened by the recipient. Click here to discover 10 envelope printing tips to get your mail opened.

    What if you’re sending mail that is never being opened by the recipient? People receive stacks of mail every day. A lot of it doesn’t even get opened. This is expensive and a waste of time. But what if you can ensure that when you send mail, the receiver is compelled to open it?

    With these envelope printing tips, you can guarantee your mail gets opened. Let’s take a look!

    1. Request Samples

    Before you design an envelope that is guaranteed to get opened, you need to find a printing company to take your order. 🙂

    At Catdi Printing we would be happy to provide you with sample envelopes with your design. Make sure to request samples with different types of envelopes. Usually most of the envelopes we print are #9 and #10 envelopes.

    It’s especially important to also consider the texture of the design and the envelope. After all, this can make all the difference to determining whether the letter gets opened by the recipient. Some of these envelopes are very expensive and we can’t source them directly from the manufacturer. Also here are some envelopes templates that you can use

    2. Customize Your Envelopes

    Another option to make your envelopes stand out on the kitchen table is to customize your envelopes. Embossing the letters of your logo or the recipient’s name can really convey a sense of quality.You could also try UV coating to add a shine to your envelopes. This is sure to catch the eye of your recipients.

    While it may be expensive, but there’s nothing more irresistible than a silk linked envelope exterior. This will make your recipient feel like royalty.

    3. Printing Styles

    Before you have your envelope printing, it’s important to consider the three main styles of printing. Take some time research the different styles before deciding which one is most suitable for you.

    Off-set Printing

    Offset printing, is a printing technique in which the logo or labeling is transferred onto a pre-made envelope. You can also use offset printing to print onto flat sheets of paper. Afterwards, the paper sheets can be made into an envelope.

    Flexographic Printing

    Often referred to as flexo printing, flexographic printing is carried out in the conversion process from paper to envelope. Unlike the offset approach, flexo printing uses a plastic printing plate rather than a metal one.

    Digital Printing

    The final printing method to mention is digital printing. Digital printing  is best used for non complicated and simply colored envelopes. But they’re also not the most appropriate if you want to print in large quantities.

    5. Always Include Your Logo

    Your logo is a key part of your brand identity.

    It’s essential to include your company logo on the envelope printing. By placing it on the exterior of the envelope you provide the recipient with something concrete by which to recognize you. It also serves as another form of advertisement and exposure. After all, the envelope could be viewed by many eyes before it reaches its destination.

    6. Choose Colors Carefully

    If you imagine a stack of letters, what color would they mostly be? Yes, the answer is always white. But it doesn’t have to be this way. You can design a letter using any color you like. Remember that different colors have different associations and meanings for people. Yes, of course, it’ll cost a little extra. But this could be a worthwhile investment to make sure your envelope is opened immediately. You should also consider which colors to choose. You may want to choose colors that are in line with your brand colors. If your logo is blue, then it wouldn’t make sense to have a red envelope.

    7. Consider Texture and Weight

    Before you start envelope printing there’s the paper to consider. The texture and weight of the paper is often an afterthought for many people. However, it can make a huge difference to whether the letter is opened or not. You know the feeling of getting a letter with a special texture. You always want to open it first, don’t you. The same goes for a heavier paper that marks the letter as quality. Everybody notices a letter printed in a weighty envelope.

    8. Keep Regulations in Mind

    There’s is no point designing the most spectacular envelopes that won’t ever be delivered. There are regulations that you need to consider when designing your envelopes. It’s important to research this before you get started on the design. After all, this is the limitations of your creativity. Regulations can include the requirement to make sure there is a space on the top right corner for the postage stamp. Without this space, the envelope certainly won’t find the recipient.You should also avoid artwork or design elements in the center of the envelope because the address needs to be clear to the postal service.

    9. Think of Your Target

    Who are you sending your letters to? This is an important question to ask yourself when designing your envelopes. After all, different groups have different tastes.

    If the recipients of your envelopes are normally older generations, you may consider a more traditional style of the envelope.

    However, if you’re trying to appeal to younger people, you need to inject a sense of fun and joy into your design. Call the printing pros at Catdi Printing at 713 882 4629.

     

     

     

  • New Print Sizes Compatible With the USPS EDDM Program

    New Print Sizes Compatible With the USPS EDDM Program

    Catdi Printing Announces New Print Sizes Compatible With the USPS EDDM Program

    Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) is a direct mail marketing solution offered by the U.S. Postal Service, and it allows businesses to target a neighborhood, zip code, mailing route or other local area and saturate the area with mail. Due to its low cost and effectiveness, it has quickly become an invaluable tool for direct mail marketers. Catdi Printing, a top source for Houston Promotional Items, has announced new print sizes compatible with EDDM in order to help businesses in the Houston area take advantage of the program.

    According to company spokesperson Carlos deSantos, businesses can target a local area with EDDM for just $0.18 per piece of mail. “This is a significant cost savings,” said deSantos, “and we want to help our customers access this new and exciting approach to direct mail campaigns. That’s why we are now providing postcard print sizes that meet EDDM specifications.

    Of course, size isn’t the only consideration, deSantos went on to explain. “For any direct mail campaign to be successful, it’s crucial that businesses send out mailings with high-quality graphic design and printing. We work with our clients to ensure that our graphic design meets their needs by representing their brand, making a strong visual impact, and targeting their desired market. We make sure that each direct mail campaign is unique, and we only use the best materials from Houston Top Promotional Brands. Our high-quality products motivate customers to respond.”

    In addition to designing and printing materials for direct mail campaigns, Catdi Printing also offers web design services. Their web design team utilizes WordPress to design websites and blogs for customers. The versatility of WordPress makes it ideal as a content management system, and many clients are able to get started with the free version of the software. Keeping costs low for customers is a priority of Catdi Printing, according to deSantos.

    Customers who are looking for the best in Houston Promotional Items for their print and direct mail campaigns can find what they need at Catdi by visiting their online store, browsing their services, and requesting a free quote. Concluded deSantos, “We hope businesses in the Houston area will consider us for their next EDDM campaign and all their other printing and web design needs. We have a strong commitment to customer service, and we are happy to assist every client in designing the best and most effective marketing materials for their business.”

  • $500 Graphic Design Scholarship Offer From Catdi Printing!

    $500 Graphic Design Scholarship Offer From Catdi Printing!

    Scholarship Opportunity for Graphic Design Majors

    It’s common news that the cost of a quality design education are spiraling upwards, and unfortunately, not everyone can afford one. However, a quality education is important for everyone, and here at Catdi, we are intent on helping the future generations achieve that goal. At Catdi Printing, we place great value on an education and want to help students with the finances needed for their higher studies. Catdi Printing is a Houston based commercial printer and direct mail provider that strives to give back to the community. With this in mind, Catdi Printing is proud to offer our first scholarship, “Catdi Print & Design Scholarship” in the amount of $500. This is designed to assist Graphic Design Majors minoring in business achieve their educational goals.

    Scholarship Amount

    The scholarship amount is $500 and it will be awarded to one (1) student for their education expenses. Should the winner not respond in 14 days of notification, another student will be chosen.

    Who is Eligible for the Scholarship?

    We are looking to encourage the growth of the Design field, and looking for Design majors with a practical minor in business. Both Undergraduate Students and Graduate Students can apply for the scholarship program, provided they are enrolled in a full-time degree program in an accredited college or graduate school.

    How to Apply for the Scholarship?

    Submit your essay (as outlined below) to scholarship@catdi.com. Keep in mind, once submitted, the essay cannot be altered or returned, so proofread carefully before hitting Submit!

    Following are the steps to apply for the Catdi Print & Design Scholarship:

    Write an essay of 1,000 words describing how you believe quality writing skills will contribute to your future in graphic design. We ask that you include personal anecdotes to emphasize your points. Too many times, writing doesn’t really communicate what the writer intended. Take the time to review your work carefully before submitting the application.

    • You must submit your essay on or before May 31, 2022
    • All applications should be sent to scholarship@catdi.com in a Word format only. PDFs or Link to Google Docs will not be accepted.
    • You should mention your full name, your university/college name, your phone number, and email address in the scholarship application.
    • The essay should be unique and creative, however, it must be YOUR work, as plagiarism will not be tolerated.
    • You should not provide any other information other than that mentioned above.
    • The winners will be announced on June 15th, 2022, and the winner will be notified by email. Should the winner not respond in 14 days, a new winner will be selected.

    Privacy Policy for Scholarship

    NOTE: Catdi’s Privacy Policy for all scholarship applicants’ submissions ensures personal information will never be shared and is for our own internal use only. No information collected during this process will be given to 3rd parties, but Catdi Printing reserves the right to use the submitted articles as we wish.

    ***Updated***

    We have extended the deadline for the Fall application due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The deadline is now May 31, 2022. In addition to the scholarship@catdi.com email address users can also email their submissions to carlos@catdi.com

  • Catdi Printing Encourages Direct Mail Services with Regular Sales and Discounts

    Catdi Printing Encourages Direct Mail Services with Regular Sales and Discounts

    Some businesses have forgone direct mail marketing efforts because they don’t believe it is an effective method of getting customers. However, with 98 percent of Americans checking their mail daily, the reach and potential impact of this marketing effort are significant. Additionally, 66 percent of consumers have purchased something because of a direct mail flyer or sales paper.

    In an effort to help businesses better realize the effectiveness of direct mail services, Houston Printing Services, Catdi Printing, offer regular sales and discounts for their services.“We understand how difficult it can be to find reliable Houston EDDM Printing Services,” stated company representative Carlos DeSantos. “Printing companies will come and go all the time, which is why we are here and intend to stay. The fact is, we rely on marketing efforts that many other companies have “written off” because we know they work. We want to help businesses utilize direct mail with amazing quality flyers that get the results they want and expect.”

    Pressman Working at Catdi Printing

    One of the main reasons that direct mail is still an effective marketing effort is because people feel as though it is a more personal method than online sales techniques. This helps consumers feel important, which will then encourage them to make a purchase with the company sending the flyers or sales ads.“In addition to offering Houston Postcard Printing Services with your ads and information on it, we also do this at an affordable price,” continued DeSantos. “Our goal is to provide superior direct mail services to meet the need of modern businesses. This will ensure you get the results you want from the direct mail marketing materials you invest in.”Customers interested in the direct mail marketing services offered by Catdi Printing can learn more by visiting the website.

    ABOUT CATDI PRINTING

    Catdi Printing is one of the biggest and strongest marketing networks available today. The company offers an array of channels to ensure clients receive the most exposure possible for an affordable price. The goal of the company is to continue bridging the gap to help clients gain ground by building awareness for their brand. The network of Catdi Printing is extremely diverse and is able to harness the full power of the Internet to attract more customers than other, similar companies. The services offered by this company are available 24/7 to ensure that businesses can get the marketing products they need when they are needed.

     

  • Catdi Printing is Now Accepting Vertcoin

    Catdi Printing is Now Accepting Vertcoin

    As consumer interest in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Vertcoin continues to grow, more businesses than ever are setting up the infrastructure to accept these forms of payment.  Surprisingly, many have already expressed a preference for Vertcoin, but Why Choose Vertcoin Over Bitcoin?  Read on to find out.

    No Centralized Mining

    The most noteworthy difference between Vertcoin and Bitcoin is that the former is designed to avoid centralized mining.  In fact, pretty much anyone who has a decent gaming PC is currently able to mine Vertcoin, and the company has expressed an adamant desire to keep it that way.  While Bitcoin is best mined on expensive, specialized computers, Vertcoin is ASIC-resistant, which means that mining it actually won’t work well on mining farms.

    Interestingly enough, Vertcion’s developers chose not to engage in any pre-mining at all, meaning that practically speaking, they’re buying and spending them at market rates just like everyone else.  This lends a good deal of credibility to the cryptocurrency payments , as no consumer base wants a coin that is backed primarily by a profit-focused company, which leaves these currencies open to failure in the event that the company backing them fails.  Since Vertcoin mining is so decentralized, this cryptocurrency constitutes a far more resilient option than most of its competitors.

    Quicker Transaction Rates

    Simply put, Vertcoin is fast; much faster than Bitcoin.  With Bitcoin, transaction confirmation often requires several hours.  Customers and businesses that use Vertcoin instead can complete these transactions in less than a minute.

    General Affordability

    While Bitcoin’s value has skyrocketed in the last year, Vertcoin is still fairly new to the game so it’s still far more affordable to most consumers; those who choose to use Vertcoin will find that its value is, unsurprisingly, on the rise, though.  A Vertcoin that went for $1 just two weeks before the addition of Ledger hard wallet support was worth $4 after the change and $5 just one week later; there’s no reason to assume that Vertcoin won’t follow in Bitcoin’s footsteps, but for now it’s simply a more affordable option.

    New Features

    Vertcoin’s development team spans across the globe, and these developers are devoted to creating a truly decentralized cryptocurrency that offers consumers all of the conveniences of Bitcoin with faster transaction times and a far lower initial investment.  These developers are now choosing to include features like stealth addresses, atomic swaps, and TOR wallet compatibility, making Vertcoin far more practically valuable than its current sale price would indicate.

    Fast Adoption Rates

    The speed with which businesses and consumers are coming around to Vertcoin is unprecedented in a cryptocurrency so new to the market.  It can already be used to purchase a wide number of goods and services, despite the fact that it has only very recently hit the market.  Those who choose to invest in, mine, or accept payment using Vertcoin today should see a dramatic rise in this cryptocurrency’s value in the not-too-distant future.

    The Take-Away

    Many companies choose to accept multiple forms of cryptocurrency, but consumers would do well to choose one that strikes them as being a particularly good bet and stick with it.  An incredible number of companies accept Vertcoin and an ever-rising number of consumers are investing as a result.  Jumping on the bandwagon now could seriously pay off in the future.

  • Using Direct Mail Marketing to Millennials – Will It Work?

    Using Direct Mail Marketing to Millennials – Will It Work?

    When it comes to marketing, Millennials often seem like a mystery. Born between 1981 and 1996, they’ve grown up in a world transitioning from analog to digital, giving them a unique perspective on communication. But here’s the surprise: while they’re often glued to their screens, they also have a deep appreciation for physical, tangible experiences—like direct mail. Yes, you read that right. Direct mail, the marketing method you thought was outdated, actually works wonders with this tech-savvy, experience-driven generation. Let’s break it down.

    Who Are Millennials, and What Makes Them Tick?

    Millennials are often characterized as digital natives, but that only tells half the story. They’re also highly nostalgic, value authenticity, and appreciate experiences that feel genuine and thoughtful. For marketers, this means combining the best of both worlds—using digital channels for engagement while offering physical touchpoints, like direct mail, to create deeper connections.

    Some key traits to consider when marketing to Millennials:

    • Tech-Savvy: They’re comfortable with technology but not limited to it. They seamlessly navigate both digital and physical worlds.
    • Experience-Oriented: Millennials value experiences over material things, so campaigns that evoke emotion or tell a story are more likely to resonate.
    • Authenticity Matters: They’re skeptical of overly promotional or impersonal ads. Personalized, thoughtful content is a must.

    Why Direct Mail Works for Millennials

    Despite being the “online generation,” Millennials are surprisingly receptive to direct mail. Here’s why this traditional marketing method works so well:

    • Tangible and Memorable: Unlike digital ads that can be scrolled past or blocked, direct mail is something they can touch, hold, and remember. The physicality of a well-designed postcard or flyer creates a lasting impression.
    • Breaks Through Digital Noise: Millennials are constantly bombarded with digital content—emails, social media posts, and notifications. Direct mail stands out as a refreshing change, offering a more personalized and less overwhelming experience.
    • Nostalgia Factor: Remember getting letters or postcards in the mail as a kid? Millennials do, and receiving something tangible taps into that sense of nostalgia, making them more likely to engage.
    • Trust and Authenticity: Direct mail feels more intentional and trustworthy compared to pop-up ads or unsolicited emails. It shows effort and care, which resonates with Millennials who value authenticity.

    Best Practices for Direct Mail Marketing to Millennials

    To effectively use direct mail for Millennials, keep these tips in mind:

    1. Personalization is Key
    Millennials appreciate personalized experiences. Use data to tailor your direct mail campaigns with names, relevant offers, or customized messages. A postcard addressed “Dear Jane” is far more engaging than one addressed to “Dear Customer.”

    2. Blend Digital and Physical Experiences
    Combine the tactile nature of direct mail with digital technology. QR codes on digital business cards, augmented reality features, or personalized URLs can bridge the gap between offline and online, enhancing engagement.

    3. Eco-Friendly Materials Matter
    Millennials care about sustainability. Use recycled paper and eco-friendly inks to show your commitment to the environment. Mention your green practices in your mailers to align with their values.

    4. Make It Eye-Catching
    Your direct mail piece should stand out. Use bold colors, creative designs, and unique formats like oversized postcards or die-cut shapes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures or finishes like embossing to make your mail feel premium.

    5. Offer Value
    Millennials respond well to campaigns that offer clear benefits—discounts, freebies, or exclusive experiences. Ensure your mailer has a compelling call to action that provides immediate value.

    Examples of Effective Direct Mail Campaigns for Millennials

    • Personalized Subscription Offers: A subscription service sent customized postcards highlighting how their product fits the recipient’s preferences, driving both engagement and conversions.
    • Event Invitations: A concert venue used creatively designed postcards with QR codes linking to ticket sales, blending nostalgia with digital convenience.
    • Cause-Based Campaigns: A nonprofit organization mailed eco-friendly brochures showcasing their mission and inviting recipients to donate through a personalized URL.

    Measuring Success: Tracking ROI with Millennials

    Direct mail isn’t just about sending—it’s about measuring. Use unique tracking methods to evaluate the success of your campaigns, such as:

    • Custom QR codes or personalized URLs to track online engagement.
    • Coupon codes tied to specific mailers to measure conversions.
    • Surveys or feedback forms included in the mail to understand what resonated.

    Conclusion: Does Direct Mail Marketing Work for Millennials?

    The answer is a resounding yes! Millennials, despite being digital natives, value the tangible and personal touch of direct mail. By combining thoughtful design, personalization, and digital integration, you can craft campaigns that resonate deeply with this experience-driven generation.

    Whether you’re launching a direct mail campaign or need help designing materials that stand out, Catdi Printing is here to help. With our expertise in blending traditional and modern marketing techniques, we’ll ensure your next campaign connects with Millennials in a meaningful way. Ready to get started? Let’s create something unforgettable!

    Explore our direct mail services and see how we can help you reach the audience you want to connect with.

  • 10 STEPS TO HELP CREATE A SUCCESSFUL DIRECT MAIL CAMPAIGN

    10 STEPS TO HELP CREATE A SUCCESSFUL DIRECT MAIL CAMPAIGN

    Need further proof that the USPS is upping its customer service game?The USPS published this gem of information to all those looking to increase their ROI with direct mail marketing. Catdi Printing is committed to providing as much detailed information on the direct mail industry to better help them make informed decisions. You can also checkout more information on our Industry News Blog

    “Direct mail can be a powerful marketing tool. But launching a direct mail campaign may seem daunting, especially if you’re running a small- to medium-sized business and wearing a dozen other hats.”  Read the complete article here

  • Printing Postcard Services in Rosenberg, Texas

    Printing Postcard Services in Rosenberg, Texas

    Digital Printing – Custom Post Cards – Rosenberg/Richmond, TX

    Postcard Printing in Rosenberg, Texas

    Local businesses in the Twin Cities have never been stronger. The new residents who have moved to our community have expressed a keen interest in the history of our community. This passion for local history has led to a resurgence in local business and a commitment to keep the local community strong, vibrant, and self-sufficient. Let these new residents know how much you appreciate their love for your hometown by advertising your competitive advantages through custom post cards that establish your brand as a local mainstay. New residents have moved here seeking a new way of life defined by integrity, trust, and good will. They will gladly choose your business over larger, corporate competitors because your established reputation in the local community is exactly what they moved here to find.

    You have to let them know you are here, however, before they can find you. Word of mouth has always worked among those native to Rosenberg and Richmond. However, new residents are still building their social and professional networks. It will take months, or possibly years, before they hear about you through the grapevine. On the other hand, you can introduce yourself to them in a matter of days with custom post cards that can be digitally printed in small quantities. Unlike lithographic printing, you do not have to order a large minimum number of post cards to offset costs. Digital printing is faster—and less expensive—than traditional printing press production.

    Custom post cards can reach them within days of your order. Custom post cards are one of the most affordable ways to advertise your business. You can distribute them in any number of ways for specific results:

    • Promote your business at a local event by passing out your post cards in person
    • Network in the community and have your post cards placed in locations where residents can take them home for future reference.
    • Use our “zip ads” service to target residents or businesses in a specific zip code.
    • Use direct mail to target specific neighborhoods or local business sectors.

    Most customers have a general sense of what they want, but they have difficulty putting their sense of things into words. Catdi designers help these customers by showing them examples of custom post cards and asking the right questions to help local businesses focus their presentation. We offer logo design, custom fonts, custom card sizes, and a full spectrum of colors to make you stand out to new prospects.

    As Fort Bend County continues to boom, our local economy emerges as a case study in the vibrancy of small- town America. Be a part of this new dynamic that blends the best of the old with the best of the new. Make your presence known with custom post cards that showcase your local organization as a pillar in the local economy. You will get more than new customers if you do this. You will gain loyal customers who will continue to return for years and decades to come. Contact us now to get started.