Designing for Print

Far from being dead, print is a tactile, immersive medium that demands a different approach than screen design. Chris Carls walks you through the key principles, tools, and techniques for elevating your designs of everything from brochures and business cards to large-format posters and packaging.

We’ll cover everything from color theory and resolution to prepress preparation, and you’ll learn how to avoid common pitfalls—such as like color shifts or poor-quality images—that can ruin an otherwise great design. You’ll also learn tips for working efficiently with print vendors, understanding file types, and using industry-standard tools to get the most out of your design software.

Topics include:

• Understand color modes and color profiles for accurate print output
• Learn the critical difference between RGB vs. CMYK and how to work in each for the best results
• Set up your files properly for bleed, trim, and safe areas to avoid costly mistakes
• Gain insight into working with typefaces and images to ensure they print at their best
• Learn to communicate with your print vendors and ensure your designs are translated perfectly to paper