How do I ensure my 3 panel brochure prints properly?

[Gedgeanne]

I have prepared a file containing a 3 panel brochure. It looks ok on the screen but the "guide lines" for the brochure are not correct because when printed the panels do not line up equally and some need tweaking to move them so they are in the centre of each panel. (Making a pdf does not cure this problem.) I am using brochure/flyer paper.

 

[JPaules]

Move the guide lines so they are where you need them.

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JP

 

[Stroppy]

I think this must be because of the variation in the "printing area" of printers. I have noticed this problem even when using a template as a basis for my design. It may be worth determining the printing area of the printer, then basing the folding lines on that. I check the printing area in new work places or on new printers by drawing a big rectangle around a blank Pub page, right out into the scratch area, filing it with a reasonably dark shade of grey or colour, then printing. I've found some printers to have uneven non printing areas, or the paper guides in the printer aren't set right etc.
M

 

[JPaules]

Another way to determine your print area (and save ink) is to use Notepad.

With the desired printer set as the default, open Notepad to a new document. File - Page Setup. Change the margins to 0 on all four sides. I'm using Vista and my numbers will automatically change to the smallest margin possible. If you aren't using Vista, you may have to click OK and reopen the Page Setup to see the new dims.

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JP

 

[Stroppy]

...after printing out my "print area test" I file it away in an "admin" file for future reference or to give to someone else who's doing a pub file with the same printer...not something one uses very often but handy to have access to. Also good for planning publications with bleeds.