print design faq

The process starts with the client telling us about their company or organization and what products they are looking for.  I will ask a number of questions about product types and options, paper types, and quantities of items needed.   Then we’ll talk about layout and any ideas the client may already have.

Once I have a rough idea of what we’re shooting for, I can price the product’s printing costs, and give a better estimate for what the final cost will be. At that point, I will request high resolution files of any branding to be included in the design(s), as well as any photos or other images that might be included.

I will send drafts of the layout(s) to the client for review and feedback, making any edits and alterations requested. After the design is finalized, I will be able to order the product from the print vendor using the finalized design files.  I generally like to have the products shipped to me, if the client is local, so I can see it first-hand and know if there are any issues that need to be resolved with the print shop.  If everything looks good, I’ll deliver the finished products to you.  If you are not local, I will have the products shipped directly to you.

It’s mostly about how many versions a client requires before they see what they like.  Some clients know right away exactly what they want, and others need to see multiple versions before they know what they want.

Other things that can add to the cost of a project are if I need to find stock images to use, if the design is complex (for instance fitting a large amount of. text in a limited area), or if there is a lot of editing that needs to be done to the text. Another thing to consider is whether your design requires a lot of custom graphics – like custom map images, or other images that require time to create, as opposed to read-to-use images provided by the customer, or a stock image site.

I’m in it for the long haul, so whether you need something simple, or require a longer, more involved process, I’m happy to oblige, but if your budget is limited, do keep in mind that the more versions you ask me to create, the bigger the end bill will be.

After discussing your specific project and needs, I will prepare a contract for you. This will outline all the specific details of our working relationship. If you choose to work with me, you will return the signature page with your signature, along with a non-refundable deposit equal to 50% of the estimated cost I give you.

After the signed contract and deposit are received, I will begin work, and will be sending you each draft for your approval and feedback, making requested revisions.

If the project goes into the next month, I will invoice you for the work done so far (minus the deposit), and will resume the work on the next month’s invoice.

At the end of the project, you will receive an invoice for the balance due on the project, minus your deposit. Once the final invoice is paid, you will be given your files in digital format, as a link to a zip file.