PUBLISHING TIPS

The following are tips suggested to be published in Embellish.  They are based on industry standards, but do not guarantee publication acceptance.

• Be You – A true designer designs for themself, not for a publication.  Feel free to design for a publication call, but let the design reflect your personal style, not a style you may see in a magazine or another designer’s work.
• Submit Your Best Work – Designs should showcase the project and not have major flaws, such as exposed glue, uneven trimmings, or mis-stamped images.  Take your time!
• Presentation – How designs are presented may play a role in publication acceptance.  Use great lighting and angles when photographing your project.  Multiple photos are not required, unless your project may be three dimensional.  Sometimes less is more, so a simple white backdrop may work for most projects.   Keep in mind that using busy background could possibly detract the editor from the beauty of the project.  Cardstock or patterned paper are great ways to create backgrounds to photograph.  Also, do not forget well lit areas, such as a kitchen counter or a work table.  Use your best judgment.
• Follow Directions – Make sure to read submission requirements and publication calls carefully to fulfill all obligations to get in the door.
• Ask - When in doubt, ask a question.  Perhaps many other designers have a similar question that deserves clarification.