Print purchasing

Many printing services are available on campus at copy and print shops located in different departments. Check first to see if your school, college or UW–Madison Printing Services offers the service you need on campus. If you need off-campus printing services, Creative Services is authorized to purchase external printing ("contract printing") for clients using our editorial and/or design services. The source for all other contract print purchasing is UW–Madison Digital Publishing & Printing Services (DP&PS).

External purchases of printing (including quick-printing and photocopying) are governed by specific state rules. The state does allow "low-dollar" printing (under $50), which means you can go to the printer of your choice for printing that will not cost more than $49.99. Please note: the under-$50 rule specifically excludes printing of business cards, letterhead, and envelopes that use the official UW–Madison logo; these must be printed either on campus, through our office, or through DP&PS. All purchases of printing that will total $50 or more must be made through our office or through DP&PS.

If we are providing editorial and/or design services for your job, we will also purchase your contract printing. We access or implement many different kinds of printing contracts, allowing for a variety of projects and deadlines. Our printing staff is knowledgeable in all areas of printing and will determine the best way to print your job based on cost, quality, and time considerations. Our print staff will also monitor your job through the printing process, working with the printer to achieve the desired results.

For more information about print purchasing through Creative Services, contact Barbara Nice, Printing manager.