It’s not often that graphic designers get a chance to learn first-hand how to use cutting-edge printing and finishing techniques to wow their current clients and attract new ones.  

It’s rarer still that they get to learn these things from the best in the business.  

Yet those who attend the PaperSpecs LIVE design conference in Chicago on Sept. 26th will do both as they enjoy workshops on “Binding,” “Digital Foiling,” “Packaging Design” and other career-enhancing topics.

 
Rare ‘How-to’ Workshops all in One Place  

“It’s extremely hard to improve your design work when you don’t really understand the different printing and finishing techniques available to you,” explains PaperSpecs Founder Sabine Lenz. “And the only way to really understand them is by taking a ‘how-to’ workshop, complete with samples you can hold and examine for yourself. That’s when you suddenly begin to see all the inspiring possibilities for your current – and future – creations.” 

Among the “How-to” workshops being offered at PaperSpecs LIVE Chicago on Sept. 26th are:

• “Hottest Binding Trends & How to Use Them.” To really make your work stand out, you not only have to know the various binding options available, but also how to use them correctly to experience truly stunning results. (Instructor: Kortez Brown of renowned bindery BindTech)
   
• “Digital Foiling 1: Polymer.” Explore tips and tricks for this die-less, digital technique. Polymer-based digital enhancements such as MGI and Scodix can add shimmering foil to your work and even give it a raised, textured feel. (Instructor: Matt Redbear of touch-marketing specialist Taktiful)
   
• “Digital Foiling 2: Toner.” Discover how this die-less “Sleeking” process, which uses toner to add foil to your work, can provide you with amazing, cost-effective special effects on the page. (Instructor: Alex Donoho of Indigo Ink Digital Printing)  
   
• “Beyond the Box: Making Your Packaging Stand Out with Embellishments.” Learn how to use powerful finishing techniques to transform your packaging designs into stunning multi-sensory packaging and unboxing experiences. (Instructor: Bruno Rohner of Rohner Press)

The Largest Paper and Print Focused Design Conference

PaperSpecs LIVE provides designers with 1 FULL DAY jam-packed with inspiration, trends, valuable insights, and so many print samples they will need to bring an extra suitcase!?

In short, everything a designer needs to create printed pieces that will “wow” their current clients and attract new ones – no matter what the budget.

This game-changing day will provide them with:

• Inspiring, Boundary Pushing Speakers:
  • Scout Driscoll, founder/CEO of branding agency DesignScout and Chicago wine & spirits branding and strategy company VINT Studio
  • Alyssa Low, Chicago artist, muralist and multidisciplinary designer
  • Elaine Palutsis, Associate Creative Director at Chicago-based VSA Partners
  • Tanner Woodford, Founder of the Design Museum of Chicago  

• Invaluable Connections
  Attendees will have the chance to meet like-minded creatives and industry luminaries who speak their language??
   
• Creative Inspiration
  They will see – and feel – the latest industry trends and innovations up close??
   
• Print Samples Galore
  They will get to take home as many print and paper samples as they can carry.

PaperSpecs Live Chicago In-Person Event 

Ticket Price: $229

Where: Venue SIX10, Chicago  

When: Sept. 26, 2024

Where to Register: www.PaperSpecsLive.com