How We Work With You
Locations & Logistics
The studio is equipped to work with both local and long distance clients. Clients near Oakland, CA or Chicago are welcome to make an appointment to view our portfolio and discuss ideas in person. Out of area clients are encouraged to request samples. This will enable you to experience firsthand the quality and originality in our work.
Project Planning
When contacting the studio to discuss your project, we will need the following information:
a) Required completion date
b) Number of copies needed of each item
c) What items you would like letterpress printed--invitations, thank you notes, maps, etc.
d) Would you like any special design elements such as, two colors, bindings, edge coloring, hand stitching, etc? Or, perhaps you would like to emulate a particular art or design movement--traditional, contemporary, etc?
Estimate and Contract
Based on our discussions, we will provide you with an estimate consisting of the job description, cost, payment schedule, and contract. Upon signing of the contract, we will require a downpayment of 1/3 to 1/2 of the contract. You are not booked into our printing schedule until we receive a signed contract and downpayment. Once the contract is signed, your project cost will not change unless you make changes to the original job description.
Design Elements
Either when you visit the studio, or through surface mail or email, we will discuss such design elements as font, papers, and graphics. Samples of these elements are available for all clients, whether local or distant.
Design Process
Next, provide the text that you would like printed. If you are a designer, or have hired an outside designer, send us the files. (Please see File Requirements.) If the studio will design your work, please email us the exact text for each item, either in the body of the email or as an MS Word attachment. The studio design staff will then email you rough draft PDF files for your review. We will use your comments to the initial design to make changes and send you the new PDF files for feedback. This process will continue until your job is exactly as you envision it.
Design Approval
When you give your final approval to the design layouts, all text and layout positions of items should be exactly as you want them printed. Changes beyond this point will result in additional charges and delays. For in-house design contracts with 1/3 deposits, the second payment is due at this point.
Letterpress Proofs
The studio will use the computer files to make plates and pull letterpress proofs on your chosen paper. If local, you may come to the studio for a press check and to review proofs in person. Otherwise, the proofs will be mailed to you for your approval. For outside designer contracts with 1/3 deposit, second payment is due at this point.
Finale!
Upon approval of the letterpress proofs, your paper is cut, printed, and any assembly that might be required is performed. Final payment is due upon delivery.
