Custom printed folders like presentation folders or kit folders can not only organize files, but they can also serve as an extension to your branding and sales strategies, especially when used externally. Like with all printed materials, however, you must strike a balance between creative customization and standard functionality. Pre-design Before your dive into the designing process, take some time to choose your audience and determine the appropriate tone. Although much of what you will eventually include on your folders will be the same, it would be beneficial to consider using a different tone for each type of audience—prospective clients, new customers, long-time customers, or staff members. The key here is to make choices. If you need folders for all of these purposes, it may be better to create four different designs than to force the creation of a one-size fits all folder. Selecting options Now that you have chosen a focus, strive to keep your text concise and design simple. Your company's contact information and one to three "headline-worthy" phrases will effectively get your point across. Embrace white space and use it to highlight the items you chose to include, such as one or two well-cropped and smartly placed pictures, which will have a greater impact than a smattering of equally-sized images. Similarly, colours and fonts should be chosen with purpose. Colours that catch a client's eye in one industry may be faux pas in another. And san serif fonts are easier to read, but do not guide your eye along as serif fonts do. No matter what your final choices are, keep your design interesting, but not distracting, by using no more than two or three of both fonts and colors. As you start to finalize your custom printed folder, you may find that you also want to include unique features to make your folder stand out from the crowd. No matter how novel, remember that these features are only worth the cost if used effectively. For example, cut outs are only useful when they allow the viewer to see something appealing that would otherwise be hidden behind paper. Customization should help further emphasize what is unique about your company, not just used for the sake of being different. Printing Once you have created a complete draft of your folder, all you have to do is choose the paper type and finishes for your folder. Remember, certain types of paper lend itself better to certain designs. Some papers, colours, and textures will muddle your graphics or dull what would otherwise be vibrant colours. Ask your printer for recommendations on what best suits your design before you complete the online ordering process. When your printer receives everything they need and you've approved the proof, your custom printed folders can be on their way to your desk in a matter of days. When they arrive, you will have a professional, polished tool for marketing your brand.
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