Catalog Design

Catalog Design FAQs

• What will the design services I order usually include?

  Most freelancers offering catalog design can also work on your magazine, brochure, sell sheet, flyer, leaflet or any other type of print material. The services usually include cover design and a pre-agreed number of pages within the catalog to get it print-ready. Photo and other graphic editing, layouts and sourcing premium quality photo images might also be part of the order but make sure you check the gig package or request a custom offer.

• Is technical or content work included in the price?

  Most sellers clearly specify in their gig packages what’s included. However, more complex design work such as product re-draws, image enhancing and manipulation will be charged separately as they’re more time consuming and will require a custom offer from the seller. Same goes for sourcing images in case you don’t have your own or designing a logo or other brand artwork. Most designers don’t do copywriting but might work with writers or editors, so check in advance if they can combine effort.

• What will the seller need from me to start the project?

  Most sellers will have a list of requirements when you order, which usually include the texts, product names, id’s, descriptions, your custom images and logo, preferred color scheme, style and any additional guidelines that are essential to the project. You can send your text as a word or other text file or include it in the message inbox. When sending photos make sure they are high resolution, same goes for the logo (a vector or PNG file).

• What is a source file and do I need one as part of the delivery?

  This is a file usually in Adobe Illustrator (extension AI) or Adobe InDesign (extension INDD) that contains the original project. If you have your source file you’ll be able to make future edits to your catalog and brochure which unfortunately is not the case if you only receive the print-ready files. Always ask for the source file if you plan to make amends in the future and most freelancers will be happy to provide it as part of the gig.

• What will be included in the final delivery?

  Your final delivery will include the finished catalog, brochure, guidebook etc. containing the agreed number of pages and a cover design. Most designers will include custom images and graphics if you have ordered the right package or as a custom offer. If you want to have the source file to make future edits, be sure to ask for it and always look for the word ‘print-ready’ (with bleed or trim mark) in the gig as this will be a PDF or other file that you can take directly to any printer for ordering the final product.

• Can I order a fast delivery in 24 hours or less?

  Most sellers will be able to accommodate a fast delivery if you are in a rush, so it’s best to contact them first to check their availability. Be aware that the freelancer might need to contact you during the design process, so if you want your brochure or catalog print-ready in no time, make sure you’re also available online for questions and revisions.