Best Print Design Practices: Take A Look Behind The Scenes Of Our Design Process

Young graphic designers need time to master the design process, while seasoned pros benefit from regular refreshers to sharpen their methods. The key? A structured approach with transparent communication that sets realistic expectations with clients.

Great design isn't magic—it's a methodical process. Here's how we tackle every project at Printulu, from <a href="https://www.printulu.co.za/product/business-cards" class="internal-link text-[#007756] hover:text-[#005d42] underline font-medium">business cards</a> to billboard campaigns.

Step 1: Study the client brief#

Everything starts with the client brief. This isn't just a quick scan—it's your roadmap to success.

Our designers carefully interpret each brief to create designs that are both <a href="/blog/print-ready-file-guide" class="internal-link text-[#007756] hover:text-[#005d42] underline font-medium">print-ready</a> and perfectly aligned with client needs. We offer a 2-revision policy, giving clients up to two rounds of changes on the initial draft. This ensures the final product hits the mark every time.

When a brief leaves us scratching our heads, we don't guess. We ask. What message should this project convey? What art style resonates with your brand? Do you want illustrations, photographs, or a mix of both?

<AcademyProTip>Always clarify unclear briefs upfront. It's better to ask three questions now than to redesign from scratch later.</AcademyProTip>

Asking questions beats shooting in the dark and potentially disappointing clients from the start.

Step 2: Research, then research some more#

Research is your secret weapon. Dig deep into your client's world.

Check out their website—what images do they use? Which colour palette defines their brand? What's their font hierarchy? How do they speak to their customers?

At Printulu, this research phase is quick but thorough. As you gain experience in the design field, you'll make faster decisions based on visual references. But never skip this step, even when deadlines are tight.

Step 3: Brainstorm#

You've studied the client, their industry, the brief, and their audience. Now it's time to connect the dots.

Every designer brainstorms differently. Some grab a pen and sketch ideas on paper. Others browse Behance or create Pinterest boards for inspiration. Some jump straight into design software and iterate until something clicks.

<AcademyQuote>The best ideas often come from the intersection of thorough research and creative experimentation. Don't rush this phase—it's where magic happens.</AcademyQuote>

Whatever your style, document your concepts. You never know when you'll want to revisit an idea for future projects. At Printulu, our quick turnaround means we often combine brainstorming with the research phase for maximum efficiency.

Step 4: Revisions#

Time to transform your concept into a polished first draft. This is where your vision becomes reality.

Every file we send at Printulu is print-ready from day one. Clients can approve designs at any stage and they'll go straight to production without delays.

If clients want changes, we circle back, make adjustments, and send the second draft. We aim to nail it on the first try, but if a rare third draft is needed, clients have that flexibility.

<AcademyDadJoke>Why don't designers ever get lost? Because they always know where to find their layers!</AcademyDadJoke>

Step 5: Approval#

This is the sweet spot—when your client loves the design and hits "approve."

At Printulu, clients get a simple choice with each draft: approve or request changes. Once they click "Approve," the design goes straight to production. No delays, no confusion.

There's nothing more satisfying than delivering a design that makes your client smile. So take a moment to celebrate—you've earned it.

P.S. Want to join our graphic design team? We're always hunting for talented junior designers. Send your CV and portfolio to hiring@printulu.co.za and let's chat.