Rarely in life are we instructed to proceed in this manner. We're taught to eat dessert last and to read a book from start to finish. Go ahead, indulge in this advice by considering how the finished piece will look and working backward to achieve it.

Design | Print

At the start of the project, engage the designer in a discussion about the finished piece. Are any special substrates needed? Will it be folded? Trimmed? Die cut? Determining these details at the start will help ensure success at the end.

“Design must meet press specs. Because designers work with different printers who have various equipment, you need to highlight what’s feasible and what’s not on your press. If you’re on the same page at the start of the project, you’ll be pleased with it at the end.”

Tip: Create a list of questions to ask the designer at the start of the project. Make sure it includes questions about how the piece will be finished.