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Target Audience: Graphic designers, production artists
Training Seminar Overview
This seminar is designed to provide graphic designers with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to prepare digital files for successful offset printing.
We will cover key concepts, best practices, and common pitfalls to ensure your designs translate flawlessly from screen to paper.
Understanding Offset Printing
- What is it? A brief explanation of the offset printing process (ink is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket and then to the paper).
- Why is it different? The key differences between an image displayed on a monitor and an image printed on paper using a offset printing press.
Understanding "Pre-Press"
The Pre-Press Workflow
- A step-by-step breakdown of the pre-press process.
- The role of the designer as the first line of defense against printing errors.
File Setup: The Right Start
The Practical Checklist
Document Size & Bleed
- Color Mode:
- How to set up a new document in InDesign with the correct trim size and a standard 1/8" (0.125") bleed.
- CMYK is King: Why all images and color swatches must be in CMYK mode.
Final File Preparation & Export
Preflighting
- The InDesign Preflight Panel: This is a powerful tool and show how it can automatically check for common errors (missing fonts, RGB images, low-res images).
- Crucial Settings:
- Compression settings for images.
- Marks and Bleeds (turning on crop marks and using document bleed.
Submitting Your File to the Printer
Communication is Key
- Communication is Key: Communicate clearly with the print vendor.
- What to Include: A checklist of what to send (the print-ready PDF, a list of spot colors, any special instructions).
- Soft Proof & Hard Proof: Soft Proof (client's colour laser prints); Hard Proof (generated by the printing company)