Print Workflow and Processes: Design Considerations

Print Workflow & Processes: Design Considerations – Episode Summary

In this expert-level episode of The Print University, Ryan McAbee and Pat McGrew break down essential design principles for achieving production-ready files—bridging the creative and manufacturing worlds of print. Perfect for onboarding designers in printing industry training programs for new employees, or building prepress automation training (Kodak Prinergy, Esko) into your workflow, this course covers typography, color, file formats, substrates, and production alignment.

The episode starts by emphasizing the difference between screen and print design. Designers must shift from RGB to CMYK thinking, plan for resolution needs, and understand mechanical tolerances—especially with offset and analog printing. Key concepts like trapping, reverse type, grain direction, and ink coverage are explained with practical examples.

Typography is explored in depth, covering the differences between fonts and typefaces, font licensing (e.g., Monotype, Adobe, Google Fonts), font management, and best practices for embedding. The hosts explain how unlicensed or poorly embedded fonts can derail print workflows.

Color theory is grounded in real-world tools like ICC profiles, G7 calibration, and spectrophotometers. The discussion moves into substrate choice, ink compatibility, and the physical constraints of offset vs. digital devices—including over-inked blacks and unsupported materials.

Finally, the episode highlights design software from Adobe, Canva, Quark, Corel, AutoCAD, and Esko, including advice on file formats, dielines, and print provider compatibility. The message is clear: great print design starts with informed choices and collaborative planning.

You Will Learn:

• How to prepare print-ready designs that align with production constraints

• Why RGB vs. CMYK, resolution, and ink limits matter for print

• The difference between typefaces, fonts, licensing, and embedding

• Color management tools: ICC profiles, G7, monitor calibration, and proofing

• How to design with substrates, fold lines, reverse type, and grain direction in mind

• Which design software fits your segment (Adobe, Canva, Esko, AutoCAD)

Who This Course Is For:

Graphic designers, brand managers, production artists, prepress leads, and teams implementing printing technician certification online, color management training for new hires, or improving design-to-production collaboration

Time to Watch:

Approx. 30 minutes