Design with Paper and Print.
Print is not dead! A graphic designer who knows designing for print inside and out.
Ever since I was a child I loved print and paper. I’d get books from the library, smell the musty books and feel weirdly happy. Who smells a mould and is happy?
As a teenager, I’d love to buy exercise books and pens for the start of the school term.
A little older now I’d visit Paperchase and the London Graphic Centre to buy supplies for college and university projects.
Now I’m working as a graphic designer working in print. The joy of seeing a Heidelberg printing press in action and the best feeling ever is when you see your work coming off the press.
Print Design: Turning pages of Brochures and Magazines
Introduction
In a world dominated by digital media, the timeless allure of printed materials remains unmatched. The joy of having a tangible product in your hands - often can’t match digital design. The graphic designer working in print design understands the crafting of brochures and magazines.
1. Brochures that make your customers buy from you
Companies want their businesses to stand out and a brochure can do that by captivating the reader. It is the role of the print designer to seamlessly blend visual appeal, information, and story to create a publication that stands out. Through the careful selection of fonts, colours, images, and layouts, the designer breathes life into these brochures, flyers, annual reports etc.
Whether designing travel brochures that transport readers to far-off lands or creating sleek product catalogues that showcase the latest innovations, the graphic designer blends the text and imagery together and inspires, leaving a lasting impression in the reader's mind.
2. Magazine design that keeps the reader engaged
Within the glossy pages of magazines, a graphic designer brings together diverse elements to create a vibrant visual feast. From fashion publications to culinary delights, and from niche hobby magazines to political discourse, the print designer must master the art of creating visually captivating spreads that evoke emotions and stimulate curiosity.
Meticulously balancing typography, photography, illustration, and whitespace, the designer orchestrates a composition that immerses readers in a world of knowledge and escapism. Through careful planning and an acute understanding of the target audience, the designer steers readers on a journey that ignites passions and challenges perceptions.
3. The power of design
Digital media is all around us but print design continues to hold a unique power. The texture of paper, the aroma of ink, and the simple act of flipping through pages make it hard to replicate that feeling on screen. Print design also looks good on your shelf or coffee table - for that desired look.
4. Embracing technological advancements
As technologies evolve, the print designer embraces them, learning them into their creative process. Digital tools enhance efficiency, allowing for precise edits, seamless colour management, and quicker project turnaround. with advancements like AI and interactive print.
What is the difference with CMYK and RGB colours?
Understanding how the CMYK inks work on the plates.
Top Trivia fact - when printing we often refer to the CMYK colour system. The initials stand for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black. But why is B Black? Well, it’s because the inventors of the system thought that people would think the B might be Black so they switched it to K and named it Key. Interesting pub quiz fact hey?
Paper printing weights
Printing weights play a crucial role in the world of printing. As an essential component of the printing process, these weights ensure that the printing materials, such as paper or fabric, are held securely in place during the printing press operation. With their strategic placement, printing weights prevent any unwanted movement or displacement of the printing substrate, ensuring precise and accurate printing results. These weights are available in various shapes and sizes, tailored to specific types of printing machinery and substrates. Whether it is offset, flexographic, or digital printing, having the right set of printing weights is vital for maintaining the integrity of the print job and ensuring optimal printing performance.
Paper weights and GSM (Grams per Square Meter) weights are essential measurements when it comes to understanding the thickness and density of the paper. Paper weights refer to the thickness of a single sheet of paper and are typically denoted in pounds or grams. A higher paper weight signifies a thicker and sturdier sheet, while a lower weight indicates a lighter and more delicate paper. On the other hand, GSM weights provide a standardized measurement for the density of paper. It refers to the weight of the paper in grams per square meter. The higher the GSM weight, the denser and thicker the paper. Understanding these measurements is crucial, as they help individuals make informed decisions when selecting paper for different purposes, such as printing, crafting, or publishing.
Different finishes for paper
When a print job is complete you can coat the paper with different finishes.
Gloss, matt laminate, foil embossed, embossed, deboss, die-cutting, spot UV and more. Depending on your budget and project it’s best to talk to your designer and printer and request some samples.
Wrapping it up!
Sorry excuse the paper pun.
Over the years people questioned why I still work in print. I have learned digital skills and applied them in my business. I can tell you… it’s because I love print. I understand the process and I love the joy it gives people from having their very own business card to having their magazine or newspaper printed.
In conclusion, despite the rise of digital media, print design remains an invaluable and necessary art form. Its ability to engage our senses and create a tactile experience is unmatched. From eye-catching magazine layouts to beautifully designed packaging, print design continues to captivate and connect with audiences in a unique way. It allows us to hold a piece of art in our hands and to feel the weight of its presence.
Do you have a project you need to start? Book in a 15 minute free consultation call.
Hi! Thanks for reading!
I’m Angela Lyons and I am the founder and graphic designer at Lyons Creative.
I specialise in both print and digital design, I aim to help businesses enhance their visual appeal by creating compelling and distinct designs. I also help freelancers and share my experiences of freelance life.
If you are interested in learning more about my services and how I can assist your business, please feel free to contact me via direct message, and we can discuss your design needs further.
