Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I hire a professional designer?
Many professional designers have studied and worked for years in such areas as color theory, typography, page design, and more. All of these elements contribute to how your business looks to your customers. The details in your design will therefore have an effect on your business. If the font is too large, the page is disorganized, colors are dated ... these can contribute to a business looking disorganized and chaotic. Many inexperienced designers may make these mistakes, ultimately costing you money in lost business.
With so many designers out there, how should I pick one?
One of the first things you will want to know is if the designer’s style meshes with your style. Look at portfolios. Are they whimsical, when you need corporate? Are they dark when you want fresh? If you like clean modern designs, a designer who’s portfolio is full of effects probably won’t be a great fit for you. You might want a designer who's style is flexible if you aren't sure of the direction you are heading.
There’s also much more to look for besides talent. You want to make sure your designer calls you back and gets the work done on time. Reliability and honesty are important. This is your business we're talking about and it needs serious attention. We’ve all heard the stories about the designer who takes payment then disappears. Unfortunately, it can happen, but it doesn't have to happen to you. Ask for a timeline in your agreement if there isn't one already. If you still aren't confident, ask for referrals.
I’m on a budget, but I still want great design. Can you help me?
Yes. We here at Suede Studio don’t want to see bad design in the world. What is your budget? Let’s work something out.
Why should we go with Suede Studio?
We specialize in working with small and startup companies who have smaller budgets, but who also recognize the value of great design.
Less expensive designers will always be lurking nearby, but be careful — you ultimately get what you pay for. To charge so little, designs are usually "slapped together". Corners have to be cut somewhere. Files may be sloppy, and printed pieces may show that. When design prices are posted or quoted without a consultation, you may be in for a design that's not very unique to your business.
On the other end of the expense spectrum, are the large creative agencies. These "big boys" are great, especially if you have an existing company that's ready to go to the next level, but expect to pay top dollar. Many of them offer a gamut of design from billboards to radio ads to television commercials.
Suede Studio bridges that gap. Creative director, Ann Pettit, has a broad range of experience. She has worked for design firms and large publishing companies and knows what it’s like to own a small business. She takes time and pride in her work and strives to produce award-winning designs no matter how large or how small the client.
How much do you charge for design work?
Since each design is customized for your needs, prices are estimated after we have discussed your project. You’ll find that our prices are very competitive for the services we provide. If price is your main concern, we probably aren’t going to be a match for you. If you want quality design that’s tailored to your needs, at a reasonable price, we are going to be a great match. Just call and we can arrange your free consultation and create an estimate that works for you.
Your estimate looks good to me. Now what?
We’ll create an agreement outlining the project’s goals, details, and deadlines. Once we receive the signed agreement and deposit from you, the project will begin.
How much is the deposit?
We request 50% at the time the project is started. The remaining 50% is due at the time we deliver the files. In some cases this may vary, depending on the project. All printing and design costs are due in full at the time we place any print orders.
What's the best way to pay my invoice?
You can mail a check or pay through Pay Pal's secure website, via our client page. It's OK if you don't have a Pay Pal account. You don't need one. Pay Pal gives you the option of paying with a major credit card or bank card. It's easy, secure and we will never handle your private information.
I just sent my deposit. What should I expect?
Depending on the size of your project and your deadlines, research and concepts begin to take form right away. Your agreement will state the date when you should see your first set of designs. In most cases, low-resolution PDFs will be e-mailed to you for your review.
How many revisions can I make?
Each project varies and the number of revisions will be noted in your agreement ... usually 2-4 revisions, which is plenty in most cases. Revisions beyond what’s stated in your agreement will be billed at an hourly rate, but don’t worry — you will be notified in advance. A change order stating the new price will be sent to you for your approval. Any revisions made after final approval may be subject to additional charges, such as printing fees and other design charges.
The design is final and it's exactly what I wanted. What's next?
Upon final approval, printing is ordered or a high-resolution PDF is sent to you so that you may use your own printer.
Can I have the Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop files?
Since our files contain proprietary information, we only release PDF versions of the final designs. If this is an important need of yours, please make special arrangements with us in advance of signing the agreement.
I want you to design something, but I want to go with my own printer. Can you do this?
Yes. We can provide you with PDFs, however, we can't be responsible for poor print qualit.
I have a design already and want you to order the printing.
It depends on the file. Please contact us and we can review your file.
I want to send you a direct message, but your e-mail address isn't anywhere on your website.
To avoid receiving annoying spam, we use the form on our "contact us" page for the initial way to reach us. It comes to our direct e-mail address without posting the address for spammers to find. Once we receive your message, you will then be able to contact us directly through e-mail ... and phone, of course.
What is Forest Stewardship Council?
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an independent, non-profit organization established to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests. It provides standard setting, trademark assurance and accreditation services for companies and organizations interested in responsible forestry. Products carrying the FSC label are independently certified to assure consumers that they come from forests that are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations. FSC has offices in more than 45 countries. Visit www.fsc.org. In addition, FSC:
- Prohibits conversion of forests or other habitats around the world.
- Prohibits the use of highly hazardous pesticides around the world.
- Prohibits the cultivation of genetically modified trees (GMOs).
- Respects the right of indigenous peoples around the world.
- Controls each certified operation at least once a year. If they are found not to comply, the certificate is withdrawn.
What is The Rainforest Alliance?
The Rainforest Alliance (rainforestalliance.org) believes that the key to ensuring long and healthy lives for people, for wildlife and for the planet is by establishing sustainable ways of working the land. In more than 60 countries around the world, the Rainforest Alliance is collaborating with farmers, workers, business leaders, governments, scientists and local communities to develop and implement standards that are socially and environmentally responsible, as well as economically viable.
By helping to overhaul the way crops and timber are produced and the way tourism is managed, the Rainforest Alliance, its partners and the consumers they serve are ensuring that the resources we depend on today will be here far into the future.
The Rainforest Alliance Certified seal of approval makes it easy for consumers to know that workers and environment are protected and that they are buying a product that has been grown or made sustainably.
Why Use Soy?
Vegetable or soy-based inks are better than petroleum inks because they have lower levels of VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) than the traditional inks. They reduce harmful carbon emissions while creating a safer work environment.