Some commercial printing services specialize in short run projects

Just because you've decided to go big with a commercial printing project like a catalog or magazine that showcases your products, you don't have to print a million copies. Shop around for short run commercial printers who can make your big project on a smaller scale.

I recommend: United Litho specializes in relatively short-run commercial printing projects (7,500-100,000) such as magazines and catalogs for small business, association and special interest publishers. PsPrint allows you to have catalogs, brochures and other projects printed in quantities as low as 125.

Use commercial printers for projects with a quick turnaround

Whether you need your business cards printed for a new employee or postcards for a mailing that needs to be in your customer's mailbox by the end of the week, quick commercial printing services are the solution to your dilemma. By offering online ordering, some quick turnaround commercial printers offer guarantees of having your job done and delivered as in 24 hours.

I recommend: 48HourPrint.com commercial printing services do just as advertised. Within 48 hours of receiving your design, they will have your business cards, postcards, brochures, sell sheets or pocket folders ready to ship to you. Prints Made Easy prints business cards, postcards, letterhead or envelopes with a 24-hour guarantee.

On-demand commercial printers come through in a pinch

When you need a project printed and don't require offset or lithographic processes, but your laser printer can't handle the quantity, on-demand commercial printers are your lifeline to getting the project done on time. They usually require you to upload documents through their website and pay in advance. Some on-demand commercial printers let you pick up your project on-site, while others offer overnight delivery.

I recommend: Look for commercial printing services like Mimeo, which offers 100 percent digital printing services, binding and collating done overnight and delivered the next day as long as the order is placed by 10 p.m. EST.

Get customized commercial printing services that make your project stand out

When you are designing a brochure, catalog, flyer or direct mail marketing piece, sometimes going the quick route with basic four-color commercial printing just isn't enough. Die-cut pieces, letterpress, spot varnishes and blind embossing transform a so-so marketing piece into a spectacular attention-getting piece.

I recommend: Dunstan Press does letterpress commercial printing services for small business including letterpress business cards, stationery and letterhead. RR Donnelly produces spot UV, hexachrome and lenticular printed materials. KoolPrint.com has die-cut options available on presentation folders and other marketing materials.