---
title: Long-time Architect Prints His Drawings to Life with Smart Color Services - ARC
description: Jim Carlson dreamt of being an architect from the time he was 12 years old. As the principal of JF Carlson Architects, he’s been living that dream for the past 40 years. And over the years, Jim has provided high-quality architectural design services to a wide variety of clients. From custom waterfront homes to minor […]
image: https://blog.e-arc.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Larg-format-printers-and-supplies.jpg
---
[](https://www.e-arc.com/)
- [Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/locations/)
- [Equipment & Supplies](https://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/default.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Scanning & Imaging](https://www.e-arc.com/services/scanning/)
- [Printing Services](https://www.e-arc.com/services/scanning/#)
- 2020 Holiday Gifts & Graphics
- [Cube Mate Desk Screens](https://www.e-arc.com/cubemate/)
- [Return to Work COVID-19 Graphics](https://www.e-arc.com/return-to-work-covid-19-graphics/)
- [School Graphics – COVID-19](https://www.e-arc.com/school-graphics-covid-19/)
- [COVID-19 Customer Resources](https://www.e-arc.com/covid-19/)
- [Order COVID-19 Signs](https://healthandwellnessposters.myprintdesk.net/DSF/SmartStore.aspx?SITEGUID=0af86288-83db-45dc-945f-3245fc8194f0#!/Storefront)
- [Enterprise Customer Solutions](https://www.e-arc.com/enterprise-customer-solutions/)
- [Office Backdrops](https://www.e-arc.com/office-backdrops-banner/)
- [The ARC Print App](https://www.e-arc.com/arc-app/)
- [Franchise Printing Services](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/franchise/)
- [Color Prints](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/color-signage/)
- [Construction Signage](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/construction-site/)
- [DIY Design & Print Tool](https://www.e-arc.com/diy-design/)
- [Digital Storefront](https://www.e-arc.com/services/digital-storefront/)
- [Environmental Graphics](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/color-signage/)
- [Small Format Color](https://www.e-arc.com/small-format-printing/)
- [Mounting, Binding & Finishing](https://www.e-arc.com/services/binding-services/)
- [Onsite Managed Print Services](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/managed-print-services/)
- [Reprographics](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/reprographics/)
- [Smart Color](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/smart-color/)
- [Vehicle Graphics](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/color-signage/)
- [Fabric Prints](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/soft-signage/)
- Quick Links
- [Return to Work COVID-19 Graphics](https://www.e-arc.com/return-to-work-covid-19-graphics/)
- [COVID-19 Customer Resources](https://www.e-arc.com/covid-19/)
- [Place Order](https://www.ishipdocs.com/FileTransfer/PrintFiles.aspx?data=SUlDL1jf5EsZSXVsgv3rBs9fd/z9rt9M0w+IU+V3VT4+M1Hy8jPnny3XwD8LpzUI24b0aVAyWNvR8C06g25uBg==)
- [Pickup Order](https://www.ishipdocs.com/FileTransfer/PrintFiles.aspx?data=SUlDL1jf5EsZSXVsgv3rBs9fd/z9rt9M0w+IU+V3VT4xFEKqxtrYCegdgxU5bNhfX+GSqDRcV2mMRE50svK3zw==)
- [Request Quote](https://www.ishipdocs.com/FileTransfer/PrintFiles.aspx?data=SUlDL1jf5EsZSXVsgv3rBs9fd/z9rt9M0w+IU+V3VT7DDiCt/v4AGnvoWE76+ac/5zXwcpSsH6MNGAE2gVK9o8dPdcRGUjtKmxD7tkxa0pw=)
- [Send Files](https://www.ishipdocs.com/Filetransfer/TransferFiles.aspx)
- [Track Orders](https://www.ishipdocs.com/FileTransfer/PrintFilesTracking.aspx)
- [Order Supplies](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/default.aspx)
- [Public Planroom](https://order.e-arc.com/arcEOC/ARCPlanRoom.aspx)
- [MPS Client Portal](http://www.e-arc.com/equipment-service/)
- [Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/locations/)
- [International Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/locations/international-locations/)
- [Credit Application](https://www.e-arc.com/arc-customer-credit-application/)
- [COD Application](https://www.e-arc.com/arc-customer-cod-application/)
[Order Prints](https://www.ishipdocs.com/FileTransfer/PrintFiles.aspx)
[Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/location/)
- [Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/locations/)
- [Enterprise Customer Solutions](https://www.e-arc.com/enterprise-customer-solutions/)
- Managed Print Services
- [Managed Print Services](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/managed-print-services/)
- [Savings Calculator](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/mps-savings-calculator/)
- [Abacus – software](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/abacus/)
- Scanning & Imaging
- [Scanning and Document Management Services](https://www.e-arc.com/services/scanning/)
- [Archives](https://www.e-arc.com/technology-solutions/archives/)
- [HIPAA Compliant](https://www.e-arc.com/services/hipaa-compliance/)
- Design & Construction Solutions
- [3D Laser Scanning](https://www.e-arc.com/services/3d-laser-scanning/)
- [3D Printing](https://www.e-arc.com/services/3d-printing/)
- [Archives](https://www.e-arc.com/technology-solutions/archives/)
- [BIM](https://www.e-arc.com/services/bim-and-rendering/)
- [Drone Services](https://www.e-arc.com/services/drone/)
- [Linking](https://www.e-arc.com/services/hyperlinking/)
- [Productivity Suite](https://www.e-arc.com/design-and-construction-technology/)
- [Project Closeout](https://www.e-arc.com/services/close-outs/)
- [Project Management](https://www.e-arc.com/services/project-management/)
- [SmartScreen](https://www.e-arc.com/services/smartscreen-displays/)
- Equipment & Supplies
- [Art & Drawing Supplies](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/c-8-art-drawing.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Drafting Furniture](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/c-5-furniture.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Drafting Supplies](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/c-1-drafting.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Filing & Storage](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/c-3-filing-storage.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Measuring Tools](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/c-6-measuring.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Office Supplies](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/Store/c-4-office.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Paper & Printing Supplies](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/Store/c-7-paper-printing.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [Printers, Plotters & Scanners](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/c-908-equipment.aspx?Adsrc=ARC01)
- [SmartScreens](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/c-912-smartscreens.aspx)
- Software
- [Abacus](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/abacus/)
- [SkySite](https://www.skysite.com/)
- [Green Initiative](https://www.e-arc.com/green-initiative/)
- About us
- [About Us](https://www.e-arc.com/about-us/)
- [Careers](https://jobs.jobvite.com/arc/jobs/)
- [Contact Us](https://www.e-arc.com/contact-us/)
- [Customers](https://www.e-arc.com/customers/)
- [Ethics & Compliance](https://www.e-arc.com/ethics-compliance/)
- [Investors](https://ir.e-arc.com/investors/overview/default.aspx)
- [Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/location/)
- [Press Releases](https://www.e-arc.com/press-release/)
- Contact us
- [Corporate offices](https://www.e-arc.com/contact-us/)
- [All Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/contact-us/#contact_form_section)
- [Send us an email](https://www.e-arc.com/contact-us/#contact_form_section)
- Resources
- [Blog](https://www.e-arc.com/blogs/)
- [Collateral](https://www.e-arc.com/collateral/)
- [Customer Stories](https://www.e-arc.com/customer-story/)
- [Customer Resources](https://www.e-arc.com/resources/)
- [Green Initiative](https://www.e-arc.com/green-initiative/)
- [Events](https://www.e-arc.com/events/)
- [Videos](http://www.e-arc.com/video/)
- [Webcasts](https://www.e-arc.com/webcasts/)
# Long-time Architect Prints His Drawings to Life with Smart Color Services
### ARC| August 3, 2018 Subscribe to ARC's Blog
Jim Carlson dreamt of being an architect from the time he was 12 years old. As the principal of [JF Carlson Architects](http://www.jfcarlsonarchitects.com), he’s been living that dream for the past 40 years. And over the years, Jim has provided high-quality architectural design services to a wide variety of clients.
From custom waterfront homes to minor remodels and every project in between, Jim Carlson has built his business on paying meticulous attention to detail. That attention to detail is evident in his decision to use mylar and pencil to create his drawings by hand.
It’s a process, Carlson says, that keeps him more connected to his drawings.
### Out of His Hands and Into Color Prints
A unique client forced Jim to have his drawings printed in color. It was a couple who’d purchased a condo that they were remodeling. They couldn’t stop arguing about a variety of design choices. Part of the problem was that they weren’t able to understand Carlson’s drawings without color.
So Jim had his drawings printed in color.
“I saw the benefits right away. My drawings popped out—it looked better. They were easier to understand.”
Jim successfully used color to help his clients understand his drawings better. Ultimately, it helped them solve their dispute and get the job done. Still, Jim wasn’t quite convinced. “The cost was prohibitive,” he said.
### ARC Introduces the Smart Color Difference
Jim came into one of ARC’s print shops with his [color drawings](http://go.e-arc.com/l/273582/2018-06-25/3qdgbrq) where he was immediately introduced to the HP Pagewide XL Printer, a device that could help him leverage all the benefits of color without the prohibitive cost. The drastic reduction in price meant that Jim could print all his drawings in color.
“Using the HP Pagewide XL printer benefits all my customers because I can use color, economically,” Jim said. “My customers can visualize it faster. It allows me to speed up the process. It brings my drawings to life.”
### The Power of Using Color Graphics vs. Black & White
Until recently, it made economic sense in many cases to avoid using color. That’s no longer the case.
Printing in color is now six times cheaper than it once was. And if Jim Carlson’s story isn’t cause enough to reconsider the benefits of color, think about this:
- Color documents can reduce errors by up to 80%.
- Drafting in color reduces failure costs on building sites by 3.9%.
- Compared to monochrome documents, color documents are more easily understood and their information is retained better up to 65% of the time.
- For every dollar invested in color, contractors can earn four dollars in savings on any given project.
To see color prints in action, [ask us for a free sample](http://go.e-arc.com/l/273582/2018-06-25/3qdgbrq?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_content=brain_drain).
Or learn more about the difference Smart Color made for [JF Carlson Architects in this YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=GtYZBdKJrRg&feature=youtu.be).
**Related**
[Color creates efficient and intelligent way to communicate](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/smart-color/)
[« Previous Post](https://blog.e-arc.com/blog/5-ways-arc-helps-franchisees-in-hawaii-and-alaska-participate-in-national-promotions) [Next Post »](https://blog.e-arc.com/blog/custom-event-graphics-get-memorialized-with-photos-on-social-media)
## Search Blog
### Blog Categories
- [Printing (64)](https://blog.e-arc.com/tag/printing)
- [Technology (29)](https://blog.e-arc.com/tag/technology)
- [Construction (18)](https://blog.e-arc.com/tag/construction)
- [Company (11)](https://blog.e-arc.com/tag/company)
- [Facilities (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/tag/facilities)
- [Equipment (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/tag/equipment)
## Recent Posts
- 
#### [Four Reasons to Centralize Your Print Infrastructure](https://blog.e-arc.com/four-reasons-to-centralize-your-print-infrastructure)
- 
#### [ARC’s GSA Contract Makes the Impossible Possible](https://blog.e-arc.com/arcs-gsa-contract-makes-the-impossible-possible)
- 
#### [Three Reasons Top Companies Are Adding Print Rooms to the Their Offices](https://blog.e-arc.com/are-print-centers-dying)
- 
#### [Three Reasons Top Companies are Abandoning Their Print Rooms](https://blog.e-arc.com/are-print-centers-dying-0)
- 
#### [You Create, We Print - Custom Holiday Gifts & Displays](https://blog.e-arc.com/blog/you-create-we-print-custom-holiday-gifts-displays)
### Blog Archive
- [August 2019 (8)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/08)
- [April 2014 (5)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2014/04)
- [February 2015 (5)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2015/02)
- [August 2017 (5)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/08)
- [April 2019 (5)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/04)
- [May 2019 (5)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/05)
- [January 2020 (5)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/01)
- [February 2020 (5)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/02)
- [April 2016 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2016/04)
- [December 2017 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/12)
- [November 2018 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/11)
- [January 2019 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/01)
- [February 2019 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/02)
- [June 2019 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/06)
- [September 2019 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/09)
- [October 2019 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/10)
- [November 2019 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/11)
- [March 2020 (4)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/03)
- [May 2016 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2016/05)
- [February 2017 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/02)
- [June 2017 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/06)
- [October 2018 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/10)
- [December 2018 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/12)
- [March 2019 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/03)
- [July 2019 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/07)
- [April 2020 (3)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/04)
- [February 2016 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2016/02)
- [October 2017 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/10)
- [January 2018 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/01)
- [February 2018 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/02)
- [June 2018 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/06)
- [August 2018 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/08)
- [September 2018 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/09)
- [December 2019 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2019/12)
- [August 2020 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/08)
- [October 2020 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/10)
- [November 2020 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/11)
- [January 2021 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2021/01)
- [February 2021 (2)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2021/02)
- [March 2015 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2015/03)
- [January 2016 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2016/01)
- [March 2016 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2016/03)
- [December 2016 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2016/12)
- [March 2017 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/03)
- [May 2017 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/05)
- [September 2017 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/09)
- [November 2017 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2017/11)
- [March 2018 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/03)
- [May 2018 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/05)
- [July 2018 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2018/07)
- [May 2020 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/05)
- [July 2020 (1)](https://blog.e-arc.com/archive/2020/07)
See all
×
### Get the latest industry news!
---
For information on designing, building and
operating structures, we invite you to join
our community.
#### Solutions
- [Printing Services](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/color-signage/)
- [Managed Print Services](https://www.e-arc.com/printing-solutions/managed-print-services/)
- [Scanning & Imaging](https://www.e-arc.com/services/scanning/)
- [Equipment & Supplies](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/default.aspx)
#### Corporate
- [About Us](https://www.e-arc.com/about-us/)
- [Careers](https://jobs.jobvite.com/arc/jobs/)
- [Contact Us](https://www.e-arc.com/contact-us/)
- [Customers](https://www.e-arc.com/customers/)
- [Ethics & Compliance](https://www.e-arc.com/ethics-compliance/)
- [Investors](https://ir.e-arc.com/investors/overview/default.aspx)
- [Locations](https://www.e-arc.com/location/)
- [Press Releases](https://www.e-arc.com/press-release/)
#### Service Centers
- [Place Order](https://www.ishipdocs.com/FileTransfer/PrintFiles.aspx)
- [Track Order](https://www.ishipdocs.com/FileTransfer/PrintFilesTracking.aspx)
- [Send Files](https://www.ishipdocs.com/Filetransfer/TransferFiles.aspx)
- [Order Supplies](http://shop.arcsupplies.com/store/default.aspx)
- [Public Planroom](https://order.e-arc.com/arcEOC/ARCPlanRoom.aspx)
#### Resources
- [Blog](https://www.e-arc.com/blogs/)
- [Collateral](https://www.e-arc.com/collateral/)
- [Customer Stories](https://www.e-arc.com/customer-story/)
- [Customer Resources](https://www.e-arc.com/resources/)
- [Green Initiative](https://www.e-arc.com/green-initiative/)
- [Events](https://www.e-arc.com/events/)
- [Videos](https://www.e-arc.com/video/)
- [Webcasts](https://www.e-arc.com/webcasts/)
#### ARC Companies
- [ARC Facilities](https://www.arcfacilities.com/)
- [Riot Creative Imaging](https://www.riotcolor.com/)
- [SKYSITE Document Management](https://www.skysite.com/)
#### FOLLOW US
-
-
-
-
-
ISO/IEC 27001:2013 Certified |
[](https://www.e-arc.com/document-scanning-and-archiving/) [](https://www.gsaadvantage.gov/advantage/ws/search/advantage_search?searchType=1&q=19:5GS-03F-142DA)
© ARC Document Solutions, LLC 2020 All rights reserved. Various trademarks held by their respective owners.