Thursday 14 October 2010

Print- 7 things to know about print

Colour models-
colour generated in print- different to that on screen, if you don't grasp that you will never be in contol of what you design.
  • CMKY
  • RGB
  • Hexachrome
  • Spot colour
  • PMS pantone matching system
Formats-
Understanding format options and limitations will help you to be more creative and economical when necessary
  • Standard ISO paper sizes
  • A & SRA sizes ( SRA slightly bigger than A4 used for printing for bleed)
  • Imperial (North America versus rest of the world)
  • Tabloid ( compact) broadsheet, Berliner
  • Envelope 'C' sizes
Stock-
The correct weight and finish of a paper or substrate are crucial to the feel of a job. If your knowledge only goes as far as 8gsm photocopy paper you're not serious about design.
  • Weights (gsm)
  • Finish- gloss/silk/matt/coated/uncoated
  • Laid or woven
  • Boards, carbon
  • Plastic and aceitates- thin- flexo thick- screen print
Artwork-
Preparing artwork for print is a sign of a professiona, save you and the printer a lot of grief if you know what needs doing and check it twice. Get theclient to sign off the proof, it offers some insurance if things go wrong.
  • Document set up
  • File formats ( fonts must be owned)
  • Spellcheck
  • Colour specs
  • Printer marks
  • Pre-flight check
  • Mock ups
  • Proof
  • Sign 0ff
Print processes-
You should know early in you design what processes and finishes are appropriate
  • Litho
  • Gravure
  • Screen print
  • Flexo
  • Pad printing
  • 6colour
  • Laminate
  • Foil black
  • Embossing/ debossing
  • Spot UV varnish
Finishing-
Closely linked with print process, discuss with printer, likely to do it in House.
  • Binding
  • Folding and creasing
  • Doe stamping/drilling
Costs-
Get 3 quotes and check the spec is the same on each one otherwise it's impossible to see who's providing the best deal. Be aware of the impact sizes and finishes have on the overall costs.
  • Get a quote
  • Identical spec for 3 print estimates to work to
  • Learn roughly what things costs (unit cost)
  • Understand variable minimum quantities
  • Extras/authors corrections
  • Delivery?

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