Pro Tips for Advanced Package Design

Recently, the Diace Designs team was hired to create an incredibly complex print and packaging project for an international client—and we went all out! From custom packaging to die cuts and foil stamping, this project was one spectacular challenge. This is the type of project we love to tackle, and today we would like to share a few tips and recommendations on how you can create advanced package design projects like a pro.

If you missed our post “Print Design 101,” we recommend reading through those basics before diving into this advanced material.

The first thing you should know about advanced package techniques is that they often require many different types of machines and technology. For this reason, it is not uncommon for different parts of the same project to be manufactured and finished in separate locations. Your standard printing may happen in Baltimore, while finishing may be in Atlanta and packaging in Buffalo, and then all the parts may be shipped to an entirely different location for assembly before finally being shipped out to you. If that sounds complex, it’s because it is!

Top Packaging Design Companies Of 2019 – We are recognized as a Top Package Design Company on DesignRush!

Project Management

This complicated process means that your project management skills need to be on point. The best way to manage any project is to follow the ABCs (Always Be Communicating). When it comes to package design, you’ll want to communicate directly with your printing company to ensure that timelines and specific requirements are established and met. Don’t be afraid to ask for proofs (as long as your timeline allows for it), and make your design files as bullet-proof as possible with a low-res mock-ups as a reference.

Advanced package design projects require a significant investment of both time and money. That’s one more reason to manage these projects closely. Be aware that you may need to pay a deposit or the balance in full prior to printing. Also, keep in mind that waiting until the last minute can spell disaster; when the timeline is expedited, you’ll end up paying rush fees and you won’t have time to proof your project before printing the full run.

Customized printing and package design are challenging, but when the stakes are high, it is worth every penny. If you have a highly-custom print project that seems impossible to produce, let us know. Making the impossible possible is what we do best!

About Kara Franco
Kara writes copy that speaks. She has a knack for creating clear, compelling messages without wasting words. She is passionate about digital marketing and believes that copy is the cornerstone of user experience.

Copywriter + Content Strategist
Kara@diacedesigns.com