The document provides information on various aspects of preparing graphic design works for production and output, including file formats, fonts, images, and printing processes. It discusses choosing appropriate paper stock and finishing techniques based on the purpose and audience. Various printing methods are outlined, from offset lithography for large quantities to digital and screen printing for other applications. Students are reminded to gather all necessary design assets and confirm technical specifications when preparing files for production.

1. Putting it all togetherGD Book, pg. 126-145 (Production process and issues), Photoshop book pg. 160-189 – Work with layers

2. Key conceptsPrintingPaper choicesFinishing processesElectronic production

3. Electronic productionFile Naming In order to make sure that all users are able to open a file, it is important to save it with the proper extension. It is also important to use a name related to the file. For example, do not name the file “Dog” if it is an image of a cat.

4. Electronic productionNote Most systems provide the file extensions automatically. However, but if you are using an older MAC, it is advisable to check for the file extension.

5. Electronic productionFile Formats You should save an image in the proper format for which it is intended to be used. For example, save an image as an .eps or a .tif file for printing and as a .jpeg or a .gif file for the Web. When in doubt, save a copy of the original before compressing any file.

6. Electronic productionCollecting for Output QuarkXPress or InDesigngather images, fonts, and the document for printing in one place

7. Electronic productionCollecting for Output IllustratorConvert fonts to outlines. Fonts are no longer editable. Also, include all linked images

8. Electronic productionCollecting for Output PhotoshopIf sending flattened files – do not need to send fontsIf sending layered files – send fonts. Especially important if there may be text changes.

9. Finishing TouchesStock Selection 2 types of stock: coated and uncoated (pg. 138-139)Paper sends a message – just as design elements do

10. Finishing TouchesUncoated stock:Not shiny, ink is usually darker when printed on thisCoated stock:Shiny, holds ink well. Looks expensive. Different types of coated stock (matte, satin, and gloss)

11. Finishing TouchesWhat type of stock would these be printed on?The annual report of Green Peace A lawyer’s letterhead A wedding invitation A flyer for a rock band A data sheet for a high-tech company

12. Finishing TouchesVarnishes Varnishes and Ultra Violet (UV) coatings are sometimes applied to a finished printed piece as a protective coating. Example: graphic design book – shiny imagesPhotoshop book – no shiny images

13. Finishing TouchesDie Cuts/Embossing/Foiling Junk mail: see any pieces that have a unique shape? Does it have any metallic elements? Is the logo raised?Die cuts-unique shape. Foiling – highly metallic, like gold foil. Embossing – raised elementsAll very high budget

14. Finishing TouchesFolds single folds, letter folds, accordion folds, gatefolds, parallel folds, and barrel or roll folds

15. Finishing Touchessingle foldsLetter fold

16. Accordion foldFinishing TouchesBarrel foldGatefold

17. Parallel foldPrintingMethod of printing needs considered in beginning of design phaseUnderstanding how the customer would like the finished product to look can help the designer in planning steps along the way

18. PrintingOffset lithography – printing involving plates. For quantities over 1,000Digital printing – no plates, for small quantity and small sized jobsFlexography – printing with rubber plates. Used on specialty items, example: mugsRelief – printing off raised surfaces. Example – letterpressScreen printing – printing from stencils and screens. Example – t-shirts

19. PrintingVariable data printing – database drivenCustomized direct mail pieces. Variable data is inkjet printed onto offset printed direct mailers

20. PrintingOne color or mono Two or three colors, which typically utilize spot colors 4C or full color

21. PrintingGet as much info as possible when starting project how project is going to printFreelance – many times designed in full color, then would need to convert to 1 color and re-designPep boys – sign – trapping off, had to re-print whole run

22. RecapDifferent types of printing, folding, finishing touches, electronic production

23. ReadingTeach Yourself Visually Adobe Photoshop CS3 Chapter14, “Save Images,” pp. 284–297 Chapter15, “Print Images,” pp. 300–303

24. Next class: portfolioSome blank CDs Some glue or tape to affix work into their portfolios A few markers and pens for any labeling Some labels and CD labels, if required Portfolio pieces, both traditional and electronic All projects done through the course period Lab work the student is proud of Design work from other classes Personal workA portfolio case of the student’s choice

25. AssignmentsCollect and pass back assignmentsDue next week:Project 4, any labs or late projects (final due date for these), supplies for portfolio

26. LAB: Idea and Image ScrapbookTake out your scrapbook, put on tableNext 15-20 minutes, go around room looking at each other’s scrapbooks.

27. LAB: Idea and Image ScrapbookRegroupDiscussion of each book, critiqueUse elements and principles of design

28. LAB: Idea and Image ScrapbookWhich design items stood out? Why? Which items showed good use of the design elements? Which book featured the best example of vector art and which featured the best example of pixel-based art? Were there any outstanding type examples? Were there any items in someone’s scrapbook you wish you had seen before working on one of the projects? Why? Did anyone collect pieces as reminders what not to do?