Brochure printing is one of the more useful advertising tools for companies because of the versatility. Brochures can be used to provide clients with information to take home at business conventions or in the office. They can also be used as a direct mail piece for sending information in response to queries. The only drawback is that brochures can be difficult to design. There are many choices to be made from the type of fold to the type of layout to how much information should be included. You do not need to be a professional designer, though, to create a stunning brochure. Some basic design tips for brochure printing along with using a template will help you get started. Many printing companies offer free templates, which will help in designing the brochure according to your printer's standards.

The Planning Stage

Begin the design process by determining the audience, purpose, and style of your brochure. All three aspects should be related, and from these vital components should the choices for fonts, colors, and other design functions be made. The purpose could be to inform clients of a product line, services, or the company itself. Is your audience young middle-class married couples or single middle-class senior citizens? Given the purpose and audience, what style would help your brochure best reach your clients? For instance, use fun fonts and family-oriented photographs for a young married crowd.

The Setup Stage

The best step to take next is to choose the size and fold of the brochure. A common size is 8.5x11 and the trifold is a common folding technique, but most printers offer several options, so choose one that will match your style. Next, choose the information and images that you will include, and don't forget contact info. Remember that a brochure is not a manual but rather a short description. Then design the cover. Beginning with the front page will help you determine a "feel" to go by for the rest of the brochure. The cover should include a headline that states the purpose but also piques interest, an image that relates to the topic, and possibly a short statement or two that encourages a reader to open the brochure. Choose two typefaces, three to four colors that contrast well, and two font sizes.

The Layout Stage

Determine which information will go on which panels, and write the text being as brief as possible. Use bullets and headings to organize so that readers can easily skim the brochure and still obtain the most important information. Align the text for symmetry and be sure that pictures are lined up logically with the information to which it relates. Be consistent with the colors, fonts, and alignment to create a layout that is easy to follow and pleasing to the eye. Avoid too many boxes. Instead, use space to limit clutter and encourage movement through the brochure.

Some Final Thoughts

Before completing your brochure printing, create a few different layouts to determine which is the most captivating. Viewing some brochure samples online may also help to give you ideas and know what works and what to avoid. If you are still having trouble with the design, enlist the help of a professional. Sometimes if you have done most of the work, you can get a better deal. Check with your printing company to see if they offer design services, as this can also save money.