Creating artwork - what are your options?

Whatever you want to print, before you can start to think about putting ink on paper, you'll need some artwork. 'Artwork' is the image or design you want to reproduce - it could be as simple as a couple of lines of text or a complex design featuring illustrations, photographs and logos.

Depending upon the complexity of your project and how 'polished' you'd like the final result to be, you have several options:

Create it yourself

Creating your own artwork costs nothing but your time and effort. You have complete control over the design and you're able to modify, tweak and refine to your heart's content. However, unless you have a keen eye for design and experience of using the relevant software, the results can sometimes look a bit amateurish. Fine if you're producing a leaflet to promote your local village fete, not so good if you're creating a prestigious brochure for a leading business consultancy. However, using the information contained throughout this blog, most people should be able to put together some artwork worthy of the professionals.



Most people have software on their PC which will allow them to create at least basic artwork. CorelDRAW or Microsoft's Word, Works and Powerpoint applications are perfect for creating single or multi-page documents incorporating text and graphics. Microsoft Publisher is an advanced solution for more complex projects. However, always check with your printing contractor before you start work as many do not accept Corel or Microsoft files. Click here for a company that does!

You can download pre-designed templates for Word, Publisher and Corel here.

If your design doesn't contain a lot of text, your best option may be to use image editing software. Your PC probably came pre-installed with software which allows you to open and modify photographs. If it also enables you to add text, then you could use this to generate your artwork. If you don't already have image manipulation software, you can download Paint.net and Serif PhotoPlus for free. The professionals use Adobe Photoshop.



Use pre-designed online templates

Some online print companies provide pre-designed templates on their website. You choose a template and upload your text and graphics. Although this can be an easy method of creating artwork, you're limited to the templates on offer which can prove restrictive and there's nothing to stop your local competitor using the same template.

Get a printer or designer to create the artwork for you

Most printing companies offer some form of artwork creation service. You supply them with your preferences for layout and design, along with your text and any logos or photographs. They produce the artwork and supply a proof for your approval. The standard of artwork can vary significantly and, as a general rule, you usually get what you pay for, so be wary of 'free artwork included' offers. If a company isn't charging for an artworker's time, they're unlikely to dedicate much time or energy to your project. Also, make sure you're given the opportunity to make amendments to the artwork without incurring additional costs. No matter how well you brief the artworker, it's unlikely he will get everything just right first time round.

For best results you should employ the services of a graphic designer. A good designer should possess the training and experience required to communicate your message in the most effective way possible. To help him create a solution which will motivate your customers, he will usually listen to your requirements and carry out research into your target audience and competitors. It's normal practice for the designer to supply at least two design concepts, one of which he will develop further in response to your comments.

The cost of graphic design work varies enormously - a leading big city agency can charge hundreds of pounds an hour, whilst a freelancer's hourly rate could be as low as £10-£15. However, if the designer does their job properly, you should enjoy a healthy return on your investment.

One word of warning. Although it can be quite hard for a designer to estimate the amount of time it will take him to complete your project, make sure you agree a fee upfront. Additional charges for amendments and revisions can come as a nasty surprise at the end of a project. Some print companies offer fixed price packages, including all design work, unlimited amends and printing.