Solid backgrounds are not banned. We recommend avoiding solid colour in areas where someone needs to write, and as part of our printing process backgrounds are automatically stripped when a design is uploaded to the printing queue. If you want to keep yours, you can ask us to leave it in.
🖨️ Why solid backgrounds make writing harder
- We use toner-based printing. Toner adds a thin layer to the surface of the paper.
- Large solid areas create a smooth, slightly glossy finish. When big areas are covered in solid colour, the paper no longer takes writing as easily.
- You may have noticed this before. Writing on a magazine, brochure or flyer is awkward for the same reason: the glossy surface makes it difficult to write on.
- That is why we strip backgrounds by default. It preserves the paper's writability, which matters most on a deskpad or planner that people write on every day.
⚠️ Warning: if a solid background covers the whole writing area, printing it as supplied would put toner over most of the paper's surface, and the deskpad could be difficult to write on.
✅ How to keep your solid background
- Add a note in the Notes section of your order asking the workshop to retain the solid background and not remove it.
- We will then print it as supplied.
- Bear in mind that the sheets may be harder to write on, for the reason above.
🎨 Using solid colour well
The aim is to use solid backgrounds strategically. Keep the areas meant for writing clear, and use solid colour in other areas such as:
- Headers
- Borders
- Decorative sections
- Other non-writing areas
💡 Tip: designs that balance solid colour with clear writing areas stay attractive and still usable. Order one wire-bound sample first if you are unsure how your design will feel to write on.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Do you not print solid backgrounds at all?
We do. We are not against solid backgrounds. We strip them by default to protect writability, and we will print them as supplied if you ask in the Notes section.
Why was the background missing from my deskpad?
Backgrounds are automatically stripped when designs are added to the printing queue, so that the paper stays easy to write on. Next time, add a note asking for the solid background to be retained.
Will keeping the background affect how it writes?
It may. A solid colour covering the writing area can leave a smooth, glossy surface that is harder to write on.
Can I use solid colour anywhere?
Yes, in headers, borders, decorative sections and other areas that are not meant for writing.
👉 Related guides and next steps