Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you have a standard pricing system for your service?
A: Each project is different & so it is difficult to have a flat rate that covers everything. A variety of factors can affect the pricing of the project. (Ex: complexity, turn around time, size, format, printing, shipping & handling, etc.) However, some calligraphy projects do have set prices, see my calligraphy page for further details.

Q: I have a cheaper quote from elsewhere, will you revise your quote to beat it?
A: Simply put, no. My quotes are based on the provided specifications of the project & the necessary costs of completing said project. Cheap quotes often mean cheap, shoddy work, whereas quality work takes time & effort, with better results in the end.

Q: Can you start on my project right away?
A: That really depends on my current workload. If your project is of an urgent nature I may be able to accomodate you, but this will incur rush charges. If I'm currently booked solid I will give you a start date on the quote.

Q: How long will it take for you to finish my project?
A: This depends on the complexity of your project & my current workload. A timeline is usually provided with each quote.

Q: How does the design process work?
A: The process starts with the client filling out the project exploration worksheet. I provide them with a quote that is tailored specifically to their needs. Once expectations & deadlines have been agreed upon I generally require 50% down to start work. Once ready, I email proofs in pdf format. The client then responds with any needed changes or their approval. Once approved I then deliver the files & the final invoice for which payment is due upon delivery of the files.

Q: How do I get my brochure to look the same no matter which printer I use?
A: The only way to get the same color every time is to use Pantone colors. Pantone colors are mixed from the same formula no matter which printer you use, therefore ensuring color consistency. If you provide a printed sample to your printer they can attempt to color match, but it won't be exactly the same, unless you use Pantone colors.

Q: What is a bleed?
A: The term "bleed" is used in the printing industry to describe a design in which a background color or image extends to the very edge & no white border is desired. Bleeds extend past the trim line (the final dimensions) of your printed piece.

Q: What is the difference between vector & raster files?
A: Raster files are composed of pixels & tend to look blocky when enlarged beyond their highest resolution. Raster files are made from a grid of individual pixels where each pixel can be a different color or shade. (Photoshop can produce raster files.) Vector files are composed of paths & can be enlarged without producing the blocky look of raster files. Vector files use mathematical relationships between points & the paths connecting them to describe an image. Vector graphics are composed of paths. (Illustrator can produce vector files.)

Q: What is file resolution?
A: Resolution is the fineness of detail in an image & is measured in pixels per inch (PPI). The more pixels per square inch, the greater the resolution the file will have. File size is proportional to the pixel dimensions of the image. It's important to note that simply enlarging a low-resolution image will not the change the file's resolution. When you make a low-resolution image larger, all you are really doing is stretching the image. (The technical term is called either resampling or interpolation.)

Q: What file formats do you provide?
A: I can provide just about any format you require. Generally I provide files in print ready PDF, JPEG, TIFF; although PNG, EPS, AI, PSD & INDD files are also an option.

Q: Which payment methods do you accept?
A: I accept electronic payments via PayPal/Credit Card, & Checks (Please make them payable to Elizabeth Dopkowski).

Q: How do I pay with Paypal?
A: Let me know that you wish to pay with Paypal & I will email you an invoice. Click the Pay Now button in the email. If you don’t see the button, click the link in the email or copy and paste the URL into your browser’s address bar. Click Continue and follow the instructions to sign up for a PayPal account and pay. It's free to sign up for a PayPal account. If you don’t want to sign up for a PayPal account, click debit or credit card and follow the instructions to pay with your card.

Q: Will my project end up in your portfolio?
A: Possibly. If this is problem for you please let me know.

Q: How long do calligraphy orders take?
A: This depends on the project complexity & my current workload. Calligraphy is painstakingly done by hand, so it is not something that can be rushed or left until the last minute. (This is true of all quality work.) Typically I need ten business days for up to every one hundred envelopes. Also consider if you will need it shipped both ways (in the event you are providing the stationery) & the quantity you will need, as these factors all effect the project timeline.

Q: What types of customers have you worked with?
A: All types: corporations, small businesses, non-profits & individuals.