The printed word is far from dead! We may now live in an exciting digital world but there are times when the printed word win’s every time. Luckily I understand that designing for print is somewhat different to designing for the web. A brochure or printed item has a tactile and lasting effect that digital mediums simply cannot create. However for me, designing a beautifully printed piece simply isn’t enough. I’m all about the message and it is at the forefront of my thought process from the outset.
I have extensive experience having produced an array of printed collateral from brochures, annual reports and corporate documents, right through to leaflets, posters, stationery and advertising. Basically if it can be printed I can design it!
Fantastic ideas start with fantastic conversations. That’s why from the start of every project I love to jump inside the heads of my clients, to help draw out the key information that will not only ensure a solid brief but to open a strong and on-going line of communication. I listen to what you have to say and what you want to achieve to ensure I fully understand the message you are looking to convey to your target audience.
The key initial questions we’ll need answering are:
- Who is your target audience?
- What is the message you’re trying to convey?
- What style of printed communication are you looking to use?
- How many pages is the piece?
- What are the dimensions?
- Do you have a specific budget?
- Is there a deadline for its completion?
- Can you provide examples of design you like?
- Is there an existing corporate brand that needs to be matched?
All this information is what I need to develop a well-defined outline of your project goals and I’ll present this back to you to ensure we both understand the project specification.
Once I have a complete understanding of your objectives, and before I leap straight into design mode, the next stage is for me to get my creative juices flowing. Ideas, ideas, ideas! For me, no idea is a stupid idea as I find that from what might seem like a completely out there thought, can grow a sophisticated and standout solution that will really punch above the crowd. I live for that EUREKA moment as it gives me the passion for what I do and it’s what keeps me fresh and my clients coming back for more!
I love thrashing out ideas in brainstorming sessions, creating doodles and drawing inspiration from everywhere, not just books and the internet! Something as obscure as a shape of a building can spark off a great idea.
Once I’ve hit upon some fantastic solutions, the next stage before I jump onto the computer is to sketch out some concept layouts. By this point my enthusiasm tends to be at boiling point and I love nothing more than presenting these ideas back to you so I can let you into my head and discuss the options and gain feedback.
As soon as everyone is happy on the direction of the project, I can really get my teeth into the design phase. Dependent on our agreement in the design specification, I may design at least two mock-up layout versions and this will give you some options and allows you to decide if there are particular favourite elements from each, whether that is a certain colour or particular font choice. I will then go away and finely develop the design paying particular attention to typography, imagery and layout to ensure the final piece sings with the clarity and originality of its message.
As far as I’m concerned, once the final design is signed off by you, this is only half my job done. The most well thought out and designed piece can be completely let down by poor print finishing, which is why I will from the outset discuss with you the possible finishing options such as some beautifully embossed typography on a brochure cover, luxury paper choices, the use of speciality cutting techniques or the addition of gloss UV layers to really bring out the printed piece. I have built a strong relationship with my print partners which allows us to not only secure highly competitive quotations for my clients, but as every printer works differently, I have a full understanding of their print process which results in problem free printing.
Originality and fresh thinking is the beating heart of my work and I carry this through every single project I undertake. I consider myself to be fun and friendly but I also have the expert knowledge and experience required to truly deliver exceptional pieces of work.
So if you’re looking for a talented freelance designer that will develop your brief to produce a printed piece that will achieve your goals, turn heads and most importantly target your audience, get in touch with me today. I’ve got some great pieces of work in my graphic design portfolio and I’d love you to check them out.