From design to print: how your leaflets are made « Back to list

In business, it’s normal for us to become involved in the design of our marketing material, (or at the very least we will approve it). Following this it is sent to the printing and comes back to us for distribution. But what happens throughout that process? We invest so much time and pay so much money for something we know so little about! We take a look at the design and printing process of how leaflets are made.

1) You create and select images and copy

Professional high resolutions images are a given when it comes to a leaflet, you need to appear professional and desirable. Hire a professional photographer and make the most of images, but don’t forget copy. Language has the power to convince people, and unless you have content writers within the business, this is again something you should outsource.

2) You design

Unless you have the exact in-house professional talents that this step requires, you will need to outsource it. If you’re lucky enough to have this ability within your team, then you will still need to monitor it closely. Give ideas, concepts and opinions freely and brief your design team. Build brand awareness and remember to follow our 5 step guide to design success.

3) You proof and proof again

We all miss things when proofing, especially if we have seen it before. We should not just be looking for mistakes; we should assume and anticipate them when it comes to print. That’s why it’s important to outsource this job to someone outside the business; they will see things you will not.

4) You select your paper size, type of paper and finish

The type of paper and finish you use will ultimately depend on your target market and budget. It’s also important to consider your paper size at the point, which is a stylistic choice. As with our full range of printing options, we have a great selection of papers for you to choose from. We stock silk, gloss and uncoated papers, with the option of recycled silk and recycled uncoated paper for those who wish to choose an environmentally friendly option. And if you want to add that extra special something, we have a range of beautiful luxury papers that are certain to impress.

Now that you have followed the basics of design, it will be time to take your design to print. This is the part most people know little about, but it’s important to be informed.

5) Printing made easy

A modern and customer orientated company will allow you to simply upload the artwork online, whilst providing you with on hand help (like live chat). After this the printing process will begin.

6) The printing process

I. The file is prepared for RIP, (A raster image processor (RIP) is a component used in a printing system which produces a raster image also known as a bitmap). The bitmap is then sent to a printing device for output.

II. Once the file has finished the RIP process, the file is then copied to the press and the printer specialist will select the paper script and physically load it into the machine.

III. A proof is printed to check quality. Pending this approval, the job is run, and check test prints are carried out throughout the run of the job.

IV. Once printed it will then go out into the finishing dept to be trimmed, checked again for quality and quantity, shrink wrapped, packaged into a suitable box and padded with bubble wrap (sometimes needed to stop it sliding about in the box!)

V. The docket is then scanned and a delivery label and delivery note is produced ready for shipping. The package is moved to our despatch area for courier or collection.

So there you have it, designing and printing are both processes which cannot be rushed, especially when it has to reflect quality and professionalism. If you’re thinking about designing a leaflet, brochure or any other type of marketing material. Speak to one of our professional team today. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.