6 Common Mistakes Packaging Designers Make
Content Introduction Typography  Font Overload Stock Images Saving files properly Proofreading Never delegate the work
Introduction
Package design can be a very subjective thing, with very objective results.
The end result can make or break a product, so it is important that a good packaging designer streamlines his or her process to maintain the highest level of quality in order to sell the product to the target consumer.
Here needs to be a precise understanding of the branding, and the graphic design.
Developing a clear picture, and understanding of exactly what the client anticipates enables design firms, such as Lien Design in San Diego, CA, to provide not only great results, but exactly what the client expected.
Following are some speed bumps that designers should learn to avoid to create an impactful and successful label design.
Typography
Typography in graphic design is an important aspect.
Imagine implementing a great typography and design to a client, only to have to retract it due to legalities.
Font style that matches product branding is a good choice, it is however, imperative to know the font use is legal for the product.
Creating the budget for the client should include an allotment for typography. This will ensure the right font, for the graphic design is implemented, with no legal restrictions.
Font Overload
Font Overload has no place in graphic design, and can leave a lasting negative impression of a product.
There are several things an overload of fonts will create, such as:
1. Distraction from the product that is being promoted. A jumbled font jumbles the mind, and distracts from the product, and in fact the graphic design of the product. 2. A state of mess and disorganization. Few consumers elect to spend time trying to understand, or even read product name and descriptions. It should come natural, and flow easily, in other words, an eye pleasing flow of fonts.
Stock Images
Stock Images can be a great addition to graphic design, especially when budget limitations are in place.
This essentially means if that stock image is included in your graphic design, it could end up being familiar to consumers. They may relate that product branding to copying that red wagon picture they have as a screen saver.
Thinking outside the box to locate the perfect stock image to fit with your package design is key. Buying a rights-managed photo may also be a good idea, since they are much less likely to be overused.
Saving files properly
Saving files Saving files properly is essential to creating a final product that prints and looks great on the shelf.
Some preliminary preparation in regards to file organization will be time spent worthwhile.
Taking time to set up a proper file storage location can save you from loosing hours or even days of valuable work. As a general rule designs are saved as CMYK for print and RGB for web.
It is also important to consider bleed, trim and safety areas. Prior to sending for print, consider outlining fonts, and color profiles. Organizing and ensuring all formatting is correct will save time and money.
Proofreading
Proofreading is putting the final touch on your graphic design project.
Lien Design ensures all work has been proofed so that every client is satisfied with the finished graphic design project. Using spellchecker is only the first step in checking the work in your design.
The verbiage should be proofread carefully to ensure all words are in the correct context.
Never delegate the work
Never avoid delegating work projects if it is beneficial to the design project, as long as a high-level of checks and balances make sure the final design is the best quality and, more importantly, suited to sell to the target consumer. A great Packaging designers knows when to share work appropriately. The end result should be the best graphic design possible, and that may entail multiple minds to create it.