From MacBook to Manufacturing

A Designer's Journey Through the Print Production Maze

Picture this, you’re a small company with a new designer, fresh out of design school, armed with nothing but a MacBook and a head full of ideas. You tasked them with crafting the perfect packaging for your revolutionary new toy or game. Sound like a great project, for a young designer eager to please. And since you have limited design and production knowledge? you just might not realize that your throwing someone into the deep end of a pool without teaching them how to swim, and while they might possess boundless creativity, they lack the practical know-how to navigate the complexities of manufacturing and production.

Now, imagine your horror when you receive the first prototype of this meticulously crafted design, only to find it looks nothing like what you envisioned. You sent it to the factory thinking it was flawless, but the reality is you tasked someone to bake a three-tiered cake who doesn’t know difference between flour and sugar – disastrous. In your frustration, you may point fingers at the factory, unaware that your own lack of knowledge contributed to the impracticality of the design.

Understanding printing methods is crucial for package designers, as it directly impacts the final appearance and quality of their design. From offset printing to digital printing, each method has its own set of advantages and limitations. Learning about color management, resolution, and file formats can make all the difference between a vibrant, eye-catching design and a lackluster one

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Unfortunately, many design schools don't include comprehensive lessons on production processes as part of their design courses. So, one can't assume that just because someone went to design school, they would automatically know about printing techniques and other production intricacies. This knowledge gap underscores the importance of seeking out additional education and training in these areas.

Fortunately, acquiring knowledge of printing techniques isn't as daunting as it may seem. Design schools often offer additional courses specifically tailored to printing processes, providing students with hands-on experience and valuable insights from industry professionals. Additionally, online resources, workshops, and seminars can serve as valuable tools for expanding one's knowledge base.

Armed with this comprehensive understanding of production processes, including printing techniques, our designer emerges as a true master of their craft, capable of bringing their creative visions to life with precision and finesse. They're not just designing packaging; they're shaping experiences, sparking joy, and leaving a lasting impression on consumers worldwide.

Originally published in Toy N Family Entertainment magazine, June 2024, ?2024 Design Edge Inc. All rights reserved.