It's no secret here; we love print design. Whether paper, packaging, or signage, visual communication is our jam. Here are 4 Hot trends we see in print design for 2022.
Muted Tones and Pastels:
Muted Tones and softer pastels are trending for this year; take the Very Peri Pantone Color of the Year as an example. You will see this trend in not only pastel paper but print for packaging of cosmetic brands and clothing. Softness and comfort are key emotions surrounding our vulnerable climate. Subtle techniques like blind emboss and tinted varnishes also play into this calming trend. Think serenity and peace using a mix of colors that speak to that mood.
Eco Everything
Sustainability is thankfully here to stay, and companies are now communicating their sustainability programs. You will see this with retail brands and large corporate companies as a part of their messaging: recycled papers, alternative fiber sources, and tips for reuse. In addition, visual grit and textures are also trending as a natural eco-friendly message.
Paper companies have rejuvenated the use of alternative fibers such as sugar cane, eucalyptus, hemp, straw, and even cotton fibers from fashion waste. In addition, the use of a visual story with fiber added sheets is making a huge come-up which was popular in the early 90s.
E-commerce companies are starting to pay attention to rightsizing of cartons for products and messaging on how to dispose of packing materials properly. In addition, you will see a boost in sustainability reports and green messaging on print and digital outlets.
Technology and Print
We continue to see Augmented Reality in print pieces utilizing video streaming in print pieces such as direct mail and product brochures. Video continues to be a leader in engagement, and savvy marketers will find ways to incorporate this technology across media channels. For example, we love this promotion from the makers of Accent Opaque, featuring a wonderfully printed and elaborately folding brochure that features an AR tour of their Ticonderoga Mill. What a fabulous idea for campus tours, training seminars, or giving a virtual glimpse of your company’s culture and environment.
Small Run - Big Impact
We continue to see digital equipment evolve. People may have smaller print runs but use specialty techniques to make print more special. Digital presses are evolving, and with that, so are the techniques to embellish print. For example, clear ink can create a varnish effect when layered or used as a pattern on the sheet. Some digital presses can utilize PMS inks and metallics. When printing a small quantity, you might find the budget for a specialty, embossing, or die-cutting.
Here are some examples of Small Run digital projects with BIG Impact!
- Altered-state view book- printed on the new HP Indigo 100K, the customer was able to print a small number of books in an oversized format and still had funds to use a side-stitched binding technique.
- Ohio University Graphic Design students used a RISOGRAPH printer to create their senior thesis book. This technique emulates screen printing and is limited to an 11 X 17 sheet. Several pastel sheets were used to create the whimsically illustrated book and card set.
- CSCA (Columbus Society of Communicating Arts) created their annual Creative Best awards book using a dry toner digital press and adding a button and string binding closure for some added fun to the reveal.
Need inspiration for your next print project?
We have a library of print samples we are happy to share, whether you are looking for print techniques or specific subject matter pieces, just ask.
By Terri Price-Deep
Creative Specialist Millcraft Paper