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Types of Calendar Layouts

It's that time of year again when thoughts turn to organize the days, weeks, and months ahead. But before you can start planning, you must decide on a calendar layout. There are so many options, from online calendars to paper planners, that it can be hard to know where to start. Let's look at some of the most popular layouts and see which one is right for you.

Calendar Layouts at PrintSafari.com

Planning a calendar printing project can be quite challenging, especially if it is done for the first time. Please find some useful information regarding layout options and page numbers for all calendar printing offered on our webshop.

Saddle Stitch vs. Wire-O Binding

The main difference between saddle stitch and wire-o is the open format.

Saddle vs. Wire-O


Saddle stitch calendars are printed 4/4 (front and back of the sheet) and can be compared to a magazine: If you order an 11" x 8.5" sized saddle stitch calendar, it will be 11" x 8.5" when it's closed and has the double size 11" x 17" when the calendar is opened. If you order this style with a drill hole (optional) to allow hanging the calendar on a wall, it will be visible on the bottom of the calendar cover and top and bottom of each opened page.

Wire-O calendars are printed 4/0 (front of each sheet, no back) and have an added metal loop integrated into the wire for hanging (the wire binding will always be at the top). An 11" x 8.5" Wire-O calendar will be 11" x 8.5" for cover and its calendar pages since each backside of the previous month are flipped over and hidden at the back of the stack.

Design


How Do Page Numbers Work for a Calendar

The page number you order refers to the total number of calendar pages, including the cover. These are individual single-sided pages, not double-sided (front/back) or spreads. You count your cover as page one and its backside as page 2, the next page 3, etc., like flipping through a magazine.

Saddle-stitched calendars can be printed 4/4 (front and back). Wire-o binding is by default single-sided only (4/0) since the back is always flipped over (and hence not visible) due to its hanging mechanism.

We recommend building a little paper dummy and writing out the numbers on each page; if this is your first time creating a calendar, it will help you visualize the project. Or you can also use your favorite wall calendar for reference.

Standard Lunar Calendar Products

Page numbers influence your calendar's production cost and set certain parameters for the available space.

The following is a short overview of all our standard calendar products:

  • 12 Page Calendar (Saddle-Stitch)

Space on this calendar type is rather limited, so thoughtful planning of your calendar concept will be helpful. For example, 12 pages are not as suitable for a photo calendar focusing on a large variety of artwork. However, these calendars come in handy if your focus is to provide a three months outlook in one glance.

A good example would be a seasonal calendar, with one large image shared by three months. Look at this layout example for a 12-page calendar for visual guidance.

Example


  • 13 Page Calendar (Wire-O)

This calendar provides room for your cover art and a one-sided monthly sheet. The artwork and calendar elements share one page, so you do not need to worry about planning for a top and bottom part as you would with saddle stitch. This allows you to plan your design and/or integrate your calendar elements into your artwork. The back is always blank for this calendar type, as it gets flipped over and won't be seen when hanging.

  • 14 Page Calendar (Wire-O)

This calendar functions the same way as the one above, with a single-sided sheet for cover and one for each month, plus one additional sheet that can be used for added information like an introduction of your company/project, credits, etc. As above, the artwork and calendar elements share one paper, so you do not need to worry about planning for a top and bottom part as you would with saddle stitch. This allows you to plan your design and/or integrate your calendar elements into your artwork.

Example


  • 16 Page Calendar (Saddle-Stitch)

A 16-page calendar is a perfect choice if you don't have enough image material to fill up each month with your own artwork. When assigning two months to each image, you will have two pages left to use for added information, such as an introduction or closing credits. Please look at our layout example for a 16-page calendar for inspiration.

  • 24 Page Calendar (Saddle-Stitch)

When hanging on a wall, a 24-page calendar could have two months sharing the same picture as seen in our layout example for a 24-page calendar. Twenty-four pages could also be used to design a flip chart-style calendar with no cover.

Example


  • 28 Page Calendar (Saddle-Stitch)

This is the most commonly used form when planning a calendar project with one picture assigned to each month. It also leaves you with two extra pages, which you can use as an introduction or closing credits. Please look at our layout example for a 28-page calendar to visualize the page setup more easily.

  • 32 Page Calendar (Saddle-Stitch)

If your project requires more information, then 32 pages are the perfect volume for your calendar as it conveniently fits all content possibilities, such as an introduction of your project, credits, sponsors, etc., without losing focus on the calendar and artwork itself. Please see our layout example for a 32-page calendar project to get inspired!

Saddle Stitch Wire-O Saddle-Stitch


Create Seasonal Layouts for your Calendar Types

Don't let your calendar get stale! Whether you use a physical planner or an online one, you can switch up the look of your calendar with seasonal layouts. This can be as simple as adding some new colors or patterns for spring or going all out with a complete design makeover for the holidays.

Celebrate different seasons by creating unique calendars. Enjoy desk calendars with spring-themed decorations during April, patriotic spreads for July, and winter wonderlands for December. Or use them as a calendar or a personal plan. Make annual holidays fun using various calendar styles, including seasonal layouts. Seasonal calendars are the perfect gift for friends or relatives. Personalize each calendar with photos of the recipient's favorite memory for the best gifts.

To create a seasonal layout, decide on the theme or season you want to represent. Then, start brainstorming ideas for how you can incorporate that theme into your calendar type.

Some things to consider might be:

  • Changing the colors of your upcoming events or background theme

  • Adding seasonal graphics or clipart

  • Using different fonts or font sizes

  • Formatting the layout in a unique way

Example


Here are some tips for creating seasonal layouts for your calendar:

1. Choose a theme.

Your theme can be based on the current season, upcoming holidays, or anything else you want to focus on. For example, you might choose a floral theme for spring or a festive design for Christmas.

For a traditional 12-month perpetual calendar, consider using different colors or patterns for each season. For example, you could use blue and white for winter, green and white for spring, etc. You could also use themed images (snowflakes for winter, flowers for spring, etc.)

2. Incorporate colors and patterns.

Use colors and patterns that reflect your chosen theme. For example, you might use pastel colors for a spring layout, blue and white for winter, or red and green for Christmas.

Example


3. Add some fun elements.

Your layout doesn't have to be all about work and appointments. You can also add fun elements, like stickers or clip art, to make it more personal and unique.

4. Get creative!

There are no rules for perpetual calendar layouts, so don't be afraid to get creative. If you're unsure where to start, plenty of resources and tutorials online can help you get started.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your seasonal calendar templates today with PrintSafari.com!

Example


Make a Statement with Larger Wall Calendars

Looking to make a statement with your wall calendar? Then go big! Large wall calendars are an eye-catching way to stay organized and on top of your schedule. Plus, they make great conversation starters – imagine all the comments and questions you'll get from curious onlookers!

If you're looking for a large wall calendar that will turn heads, check out our selection of giant calendars. These babies are sure to get noticed; they're just the thing for making a bold statement in your home or office.

Another typical calendar format is our wall calendar which offers creative spreads each month. Pick up an 8x11 x 12 x 12 wall calendar and enjoy creating your pages. You can use your own photo each month and add text to personalize your calendar.

Explore the season through pictures from each calendar month or celebrate different memories by displaying photos of your loved ones. You could also make due dates or special occasions every month as a reminder of your birthday and start the countdown to your vacations.

We also have a great selection of large-format calendars if you want something a little more understated. These calendars are still big, but they're not quite over-the-top as our giant wall calendars. So if you're looking for a large calendar that makes a statement without being too in-your-face, one of our large-format calendars is probably just what you need.

No matter which type of large wall calendar you choose, you can be sure it will help you stay organized and on top of your due dates. So go ahead and make a statement – with a big, bold, beautiful wall calendar from our selection!

Example


Enjoy Photo Calendar Layouts for your Desk

Your desk reflects your style, so why not make it unique with a custom photo calendar? Give your desk calendars a modern update that makes them the perfect accessory in every room.

Enjoy our Wire-O or Saddle Stitch calendar layouts that list the month creatively. Add a photo on these 5-X11 office calendars and explore the variety and designs available. We offer several choices to create your flip calendar. Our calendar displays a 5 x 7 card with your chosen image and monthly layout. Either way, you can create your page layout and determine the month you will start.

Example


Go Further with Photo Calendars and Planners to Keep you Organized

It's no secret that a well-organized life can lead to a better overall sense of well-being. But with so much on our plates, it can be tough to keep track of everything. That's where photo calendars and planners come in!

These simple tools can help you stay on top of your schedule, remember important dates, and keep track of your to-do list. Plus, with custom calendars and planners, you can add a personal touch to help you stay motivated and inspired.

Making your own calendars and planners is a great way to stay organized and creative. Plus, it's a fun way to show off your photos and make them into something practical that you can use every day.

Example


Here are some tips for making your calendars and planners:

  • Choose the right size for your calendar or planner.

If you want something you can carry with you, go for a smaller size. But if you want something you can see from across the room, go for a larger size.

  • Pick a theme for your photos.

This could be anything from beach vacations to family portraits. A theme will help you choose the right photos and make your calendar or planner more cohesive.

  • Use high-quality photos.

This is important because you want your calendar or planner to look great, no matter how far away you are from it. Use a photo editing program to touch up your photos before you print them.

  • Choose a layout that you like.

There are lots of different ways to lay out a calendar or planner. Pick one that you think will work best for you and your photos.

  • Add in some extra features.

You can add things like your daily schedule, birthdays, anniversaries, and more if you want. This can make your Western or Chinese calendar or planner even more useful.

Here at PrintSafari.com, we offer personalized calendar designs for all your needs. The calendar's cover can be personalized by adding pictures or highlighting special words that mean something important to you. Get weekly glance calendar layouts to fit all your appointments, social obligations, and deadlines. It can help you stay organized with work, school, or life. Have fun with our more detailed style calendar for yourself and your partner for practical advice on daily planning.

Paper Stock


Best Practices for Printing Large Quantities of Calendars

If you're thinking of printing large quantities of calendars, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure the best results. Here are some best practices for printing large quantities of calendars:

1. Make sure your design is high quality and print-ready.

The worst thing you want is your calendars to look blurry or pixelated. To avoid this, use high-resolution images and graphics, and be sure to proofread your design before sending it to print.

Sizes


2. Choose the right paper stock.

Glossy paper stocks will make your colors pop, but they can be more prone to smudging and fingerprints. Matte paper stocks have a more subdued look, but they're more resistant to smudging. You can also use magnetic calendars' paper stock to pop out your layout and themes.

3. Use a high-quality printer.

If you're printing on your own, use a high-quality printer. Cheap printers can produce subpar results, so it's worth investing in a good quality printer if you're printing large quantities of calendars.

4. Use a professional printing service.

If you're not confident in your printing abilities, or if you simply don't have the time to do it yourself, consider using a professional printing service like PrintSafari.com. They'll be able to produce high-quality results and save you the hassle of doing it yourself.

5. Plan ahead.

Give yourself plenty of time to design and print your calendars. Last-minute rushing can lead to mistakes, and you don't want your calendars to be delayed because of avoidable errors.

By following these best practices, you can be confident that your large quantity calendar printing project will go off without a hitch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much safe zone should I plan for Wire-O binding?

Please remember that you need an extended safe zone of 0.6" for all critical information at the top of each page. The wire-O binding will be in this area, so the visibility of graphic elements in this area will be obstructed by the wire and punched holes. Background colors and/or photos should extend into this area if you plan a design with a full bleed.

How do I submit files for a calendar printing job?

Please submit a multi-page PDF file with all pages in chronological order, ideally as PDF/X3-2002 standard. Do not send pages as double-spreads.

All Pages require 0.0625" bleed on all sides and should contain enough space as a safe area. For Wire-O binding, please keep a safety distance of 0.6" + bleeds at the top for the wire spiral. If you cannot create a multi-page .PDF, all files must be numbered correctly in their file name (e. g. Calendar_01.tif, Calendar_02.tif, Calendar_03.tif, etc.), and you will need to add a design service option to your order, and our graphic artists will prepare the print ready file for you.

Correct page orientation is extremely important to avoid nasty surprises.

What are the three types of calendars?

There are three types of calendars: Gregorian, Julian, and Hebrew.

The Gregorian calendar, also called the Western calendar, is the most widely used solar year calendar in the world. It is named after Pope Gregory XIII, who introduced it in October 1582. The Gregorian calendar was a refinement of the Julian calendar, which had been used since 45 BC. The Gregorian calendar has 12 months, each with 28-31 days.

The Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC, was a reform of the Roman calendar. The Julian calendar had 12 months, each with 31 days, and an extra month, Intercalaris, with 27 or 28 days, inserted between February and March every other year.

The Hebrew calendar, also called the Jewish calendar, is used by Jews for religious and cultural purposes. It is based on a lunar cycle, with each month beginning with the new moon phases. The year has 12 months, each with 29 or 30 days. A leap year has 13 months, with the extra month, Adar II, added after February. The Hebrew calendar determines the special dates of Jewish holidays and the good day for reading the Torah. While the Chinese calendar is based on the first day of a new moon and has leap months rather than days, it's best known for being associated with the zodiac.

Which is the most commonly used calendar?

The Gregorian calendar is the most widely used today. It is a solar year calendar, meaning the Gregorian calendar is based on the sun's position. The year is divided into 12 months, each having either 28, 30, or 31 days. The Gregorian calendar is named after Pope Gregory XIII, who introduced it in 1582.

What is a Babylonian calendar?

A Babylonian calendar is a system of timekeeping that was used in ancient Greece and Mesopotamia. It was based on a year of 12 lunar months, with each month beginning on the new moon. The calendar was divided into weeks of seven days, with the first day of the week being dedicated to the god Marduk. Days were named after gods or planets, and each day had its own special significance. festivals and other special events were often timed according to the lunar year cycle.

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