# Plan your first small print run

Margin Press - fictional teaching worksheet. Original editable text; no live enquiry is sent. The PDF is a printable worksheet, not a fillable online form. Use this source to make your own version.

## A brief before the quote

Turn an idea into a brief you can discuss. You do not need to have every print decision settled before you start.

1. **What are you making it for?** Name the reader, event or occasion. What should the piece help them notice, understand or keep? Leave two lines for the reader's answer.
2. **Choose a starting format.** A3 poster: a single-sheet idea. A5 zine: a small booklet idea. A6 postcard: a short note or image. Give each choice a checkbox; this helps plan the brief and does not determine a quote.
3. **Quantity and colour ideas.** Runs are 25-250 copies, using one or two spot colours. Write a starting choice; the available inks are discussed with the studio. Leave fields for copies and colour ideas.

**Fictional worked example:** a poster for a neighbourhood reading event. A3, 50 copies, two colour ideas, with artwork still in progress. The paper and available inks are questions for the studio, not decisions this worksheet makes.

## Bring the useful details

Each job is quoted individually. These notes help explain the job without guessing technical requirements or promising a production date.

4. **Where is the artwork now?** Describe what exists: an idea, draft, layout or finished artwork. Note the preparation help you would like to discuss. Leave two lines.
5. **What needs a conversation?** Paper, available inks, artwork preparation, and how dispatch or collection could work for this particular job. Leave two lines.
6. **Put the enquiry together.** “I am making ___ for ___. My starting idea is [format], [quantity] copies and [one/two] colour ideas. My artwork is ___. I would like to discuss ___.” Leave a paragraph of writing space.

**Next step:** use the studio's enquiry form when you have your notes. No fixed price, response time or turnaround is promised here. This fictional worksheet does not send an enquiry; no live form destination is supplied.