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Coursera

Graphic Design Theory - Print Design

via Coursera

Overview

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From instructor Martin Perhiniak, this course is an in-depth guide on printing techniques, products, workflows and terminology. If you are like so many of us, amazed by a beautifully designed poster or magazine cover, buying a chocolate just because of its cool packaging, if you love design in print form, then you’ve come to the right place. Print design focuses on producing designs printed onto tangible surfaces and products, and we can say that it is the oldest, classic field of Graphic Design, as old as the profession itself. With this rich history, we have a long way to look back, and even more to look forward to as new trends arise and more and more industries modernize their look and appeal, and professional printing and packaging services become more accessible to small brands. Because of this, learning the key terms, best practices and industry standards of printing is very important for any professional designer. The greatest benefits of completing this course: By the end of this course, you will be equipped with all the knowledge you need to accept print design projects (given that you have the skills in the software). You will be able to confidently interact with printer services and clients, knowing how to prepare your work professionally, from adjusting your colors to setting your bleeds. What will we cover: In this course we will be covering everything you need to know about printing techniques and processes, including: * All the essential print terminology like bleed, color separation, RIP, spot colors etc. * All the most common printing methods (offset, digital, screen, 3D printing) and the differences between them * Special printing techniques (foil stamp, varnish, lamination, coating, emboss) * Color management, calibration and proofing * Binding methods (stiching, thread sewn, spiral, EVA, PUR, tape bond etc.) * Checklist for a successful print job (overprinting, trapping, flattening, knockout etc.) * Paper types, sizes with resolution settings and so much more. We will also dive deep into all the specialized areas within this field, like: * Logo design, * Packaging design, * Editorial design, * Environmental design, * Posters, * Brochures, * Business Cards, * Stationery and Books * Mastering by visual examples We will analyze hundreds of print design projects to give you a solid understanding of the important rules and terms you need to be familiar with as a print designer. Who is this course for? * Anyone planning to get into the creative industry * Creative professionals aiming to improve their compositions * Marketing managers working with agencies & printing services Practical advice with invaluable industry insight: This is not an abstract theory course at all, but a very practical one. As a professional freelance designer myself, I will give you all my 20+ years of experience in managing 100s of high-paying projects from simple to complex, from small shops to global brands like Disney and Lego. In fact, I was working in a special consultant role for Adobe for more than a year, teaching design workflow and process practices to their most esteemed clients. And I can promise you with confidence, this part of the Graphic Design Theory Series, will literally elevate you to the next level as a designer, giving you a huge advantage whether you're just starting out, or already working as a designer for years. Come, join me, Martin Perhiniak, on this exciting journey, let’s explore the amazing world of Graphic Design together! Instructor bio: Martin Perhiniak is a Certified Adobe Design Master and instructor with extensive experience working for top companies including Disney, Warner Brothers, Cartoon Network, Sony Pictures, Mattel, and DC Comics. Based in London, he teaches design and provides live online training and consultancy services to students and professionals worldwide. Martin’s teaching emphasizes hands-on learning and personal growth, guided by his motto: “Do not compare yourself to your role models. Work hard and wait for the moment when others will compare themselves to you.”

Syllabus

  • Print Design Foundations
    • Start with the core foundations every print designer must know. In this module, you'll explore key terms, foundational image settings like resolution and aliasing, and gain insight into traditional offset printing processes that still dominate the professional print world.
  • Printing Methods and Inks
    • Explore how different printing methods and material finishes impact your final product. You'll get to know advanced surface treatments and ink technologies that elevate design for packaging, posters, and more.
  • Advanced Print Effects & Setup
    • Take your designs to press with confidence. This module walks you through the technical aspects of prepping print files, using special finishes like embossing, and selecting the right paper and bindery options to bring your concepts to life.
  • Formats, Color Spaces & Management
    • Discover how digital file types, color accuracy, and printing standards intersect. This module equips you to make informed choices on color spaces, proofing workflows, and critical prepress techniques like trapping and overprinting.
  • Preflight and Final Checks
    • Before hitting print, you’ll want to double-check everything. This module covers the critical preflight stage, how to make smart design decisions (like text color contrast), and practical applications of branding through real-world identity pieces.
  • Visual Identity & Layout Design
    • This module shifts into editorial territory—magazines, stationery, and spreads. You’ll explore both the visual and structural elements that shape professional layouts, and how to maintain design consistency across multiple outputs.
  • Books, Posters & Spatial Design
    • Wrap up your print design journey by looking at advanced formats—from book covers to environmental graphics. This module emphasizes how print design can expand into physical and spatial domains, integrating form and function in unique ways.

Taught by

Skillshare

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