Print Production: Packaging

Learn about the basics of creating artwork for packages in ways that are practical for manufacturing and shipping, and make the products visually appealing.

Introduction

• Welcome
• About this course
• About the exercise files

1. Types of Packaging

• Building a roadmap: Deciding on the type of package
• Examining basic types of boxes
• Combining packaging materials: Complex packaging

2. Planning a Package

• Making the decision of packaging type
• Considering the consumer experience
• Accommodating instructional/legal copy, barcode, etc.

3. Dieline = Road Map

• Reading a dieline (cut vs. fold indicators, flaps, etc.)
• Examining a package die
• Replicating an existing package: Basic panels
• Adding flaps and fold-in tabs
• Refining tab and flap shapes
• Creating rounded corners

4. Designing in Illustrator

• Why Illustrator is perfect for packaging
• Laying the groundwork: Start with the dieline
• Creating a bleed guide
• Adding artwork: Handling bleed, trim, and glue
• Preparing your job for the printer
• File formats for print

5. Designing in InDesign

• Using InDesign: Pros and cons
• Importing the dieline
• Adding artwork: Handling bleed and color intersections
• Preparing your job for the printer
• File formats for print

6. Final Steps

• Printing and cutting the mockup
• Checking the mockup
• Fulfillment and assembling the final piece

Conclusion

• What I hope you've learned in this course
• Next steps