There is something genuinely magical about holding a finished children's book in your hands. The weight of it, the feel of the pages, the way the colours leap off the cover. Whether you are a first-time author, an illustrator, an educator, or a parent with a story that deserves to be told, children's book printing Auckland is a journey that rewards careful planning and the right printing partner.

At MC2, we work with storytellers across New Zealand who want their books to look and feel as beautiful as the stories inside them. Based in Rosedale, Auckland, we understand the technical and creative demands that come with children's book production. From choosing the right paper stock to getting colour reproduction just right, every decision shapes the final result.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know before you begin, so your book has the best possible start.

Table of Contents

Why Print Quality Matters for Children's Books

Children's books are handled differently from any other printed product. They get dropped, bent, chewed, and loved hard by their readers. The physical quality of a book is not just an aesthetic consideration, it is a practical one.

Poor print quality can undermine an otherwise brilliant story. Illustrations that look muddy or dull on the page, text that bleeds into the gutter, or covers that peel after a few reads all detract from the reading experience. When you invest in professional children's book printing Auckland, you are investing in the longevity and credibility of your work.

For New Zealand authors and illustrators, quality printing also signals professionalism. Whether you are approaching schools, libraries, gift shops, or selling directly to families, a well-produced book opens doors that a low-quality print job simply cannot.

The role of colour accuracy in children's books

Colour is everything in children's publishing. Young readers respond to vivid, accurate, joyful illustrations. If the colours in your printed book do not match the original artwork, the emotional impact of those illustrations is diminished.

Professional print specialists use colour management processes to ensure consistency across the entire print run. This involves proofing stages, calibrated equipment, and an understanding of how different paper stocks absorb ink. Getting this right is not something that happens automatically, it requires expertise and attention at every stage of production.

Choosing the Right Paper and Materials

Paper choice is one of the most important decisions you will make during the children's book printing Auckland process. Different paper stocks produce very different results, and the right choice depends on your book's format, audience, and budget.

For picture books with full-colour illustrations, a coated art paper is generally preferred. It holds ink well, produces sharp detail, and gives colours a rich, vibrant finish. For chapter books or educational titles with fewer images, an uncoated stock can feel warmer and more inviting to read.

Cover stocks and lamination

The cover of a children's book needs to be durable and visually striking. A heavier board stock, typically 250gsm to 350gsm, provides the rigidity that picture book covers require. Lamination adds another layer of protection and changes the tactile quality of the cover.

Gloss lamination gives a bright, shiny finish that makes colours pop. Matt lamination creates a softer, more sophisticated look. Soft-touch lamination adds a velvety feel that is genuinely delightful to hold. Each option sends a different signal to the reader, so it is worth thinking carefully about which best suits your book's personality and intended audience.

Spot UV coating is another option worth considering. It allows you to apply a high-gloss finish to specific elements of the cover, such as a title or character, creating a beautiful contrast against a matt background. These finishing touches are what set a professionally printed book apart from a self-printed alternative.

Binding Options for Children's Books

Binding affects how a book feels, how it opens, and how long it lasts. For children's book printing Auckland, the most common binding methods are saddle stitch, perfect binding, and case binding. Each has its place depending on the page count and intended use of the book.

Saddle stitch binding uses staples through the spine and works well for shorter books, typically up to 64 pages. It lies flat when open, which is ideal for picture books where double-page spreads are a key part of the design. It is also a cost-effective option for smaller print runs.

Perfect binding glues the pages together at the spine and gives the book a flat, square spine that can carry the title. This is the standard for most trade paperbacks and is suitable for longer children's chapter books. It gives a polished, bookshop-ready appearance.

Case binding, also known as hardcover binding, is the premium option. The pages are sewn and glued into a hard cover, creating a book that can withstand years of enthusiastic reading. For a keepsake picture book or a title intended for library use, hardcover binding is worth the additional investment.

Working With a Print Specialist in Auckland

The process of children's book printing Auckland involves many moving parts. From file preparation and proofing to press checks and delivery, each stage requires technical knowledge and careful coordination. Working with an experienced print specialist takes the guesswork out of that process.

At MC2, we act as more than just a production facility. We work alongside authors and illustrators to guide every decision, anticipate potential issues, and deliver a result that genuinely reflects the vision behind the book. Our team understands the unique demands of children's book production and brings that knowledge to every project we take on.

One of the key advantages of working with a local Auckland specialist is accessibility. You can meet in person, review physical proofs, and make decisions together rather than relying on digital approximations that may not accurately represent the final product. That direct relationship is invaluable when quality matters as much as it does in children's publishing.

You can explore the full range of services and resources available through our website to understand everything MC2 offers across our printing services.

According to Publishers New Zealand, the local publishing industry continues to grow, with self-publishing and independent authors making up an increasing share of new titles each year. This makes access to quality, professional printing more important than ever for New Zealand storytellers.

Preparing Your Files for Print

Good file preparation is the foundation of a successful print job. Submitting files that are not set up correctly for print is one of the most common causes of delays, unexpected costs, and disappointing results. Understanding the basics before you submit will save you significant time and frustration.

All artwork and images should be supplied at a minimum resolution of 300 DPI at the final print size. Images sourced from websites are typically only 72 DPI, which will appear blurry and pixelated when printed. This is a non-negotiable requirement for quality children's book printing Auckland.

Documents should be set up with bleed, typically 3mm on all sides, to ensure that background colours and images that run to the edge of the page are not cut off during trimming. Crop marks should be included so the printer knows exactly where to cut. Text and important design elements should be kept within a safe zone, inset at least 5mm from the trim edge.

Colour mode matters too. Files intended for print should be supplied in CMYK rather than RGB. RGB is the colour mode used by screens, and colours can shift significantly when converted to CMYK for print. Converting files before submission gives you more control over how your colours will look in the final product.

Understanding Print Run Quantities

One of the most common questions we hear from first-time authors is: how many copies should I print? The answer depends on your goals, your budget, and your distribution plan. For children's book printing Auckland, there is no single right answer, but there are some useful guidelines to consider.

Printing a larger quantity generally reduces the cost per unit, which is why publishers often opt for runs of 1,000 copies or more. However, for an independent author without established distribution, a smaller initial run of 100 to 500 copies may be more appropriate. It allows you to test the market, gather feedback, and make any adjustments before committing to a larger investment.

Short-run digital printing has made it more accessible than ever to produce small quantities of high-quality children's books. Offset printing, which is used for larger runs, offers superior colour consistency and a lower cost per unit at scale. Understanding the trade-offs between these two methods is something a good print specialist can help you navigate based on your specific situation.

Storage is also a practical consideration. If you print 1,000 copies and sell 200 in the first year, you need somewhere to store the remaining 800. Factor that into your planning so there are no surprises after delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum print run for children's book printing Auckland?

At MC2, we work with clients on a range of print quantities, from short digital runs of as few as 50 copies up to large offset runs of several thousand. The right quantity depends on your budget, distribution plan, and whether this is a first print run or a reprint. We are happy to advise on the most cost-effective approach for your specific project.

How long does children's book printing Auckland typically take?

Turnaround times vary depending on the complexity of the job, the binding method, and the quantity required. A standard digital short run can often be completed within two to three weeks of file approval. Larger offset print runs and hardcover binding will generally require four to six weeks. We recommend discussing your timeline early so we can plan production accordingly.

Can MC2 help with the design and layout of my children's book before printing?

MC2 specialises in the print production side of children's book printing Auckland. We can advise on file setup, page dimensions, bleed requirements, and colour modes to ensure your files are print-ready. If you need design or illustration services, we can point you towards trusted local creatives we have worked with successfully.

What paper and binding options are best for a hardcover picture book?

For a hardcover picture book, we typically recommend a coated art paper in the 150gsm to 200gsm range for the interior pages, paired with case binding for the cover. A gloss or matt laminate finish on the cover boards adds durability and visual appeal. We can provide paper and binding samples so you can make an informed decision before committing to a full print run.

How do I ensure the colours in my printed book match my original artwork?

Colour accuracy in children's book printing Auckland starts with supplying files in CMYK at 300 DPI. We also provide physical proofs before going to press, allowing you to review and approve colour before the full run is printed. This proofing stage is an essential quality control step that we strongly recommend for any colour-critical project.

Bringing It All Together

Children's book printing Auckland is a process that deserves the same care and craft as the story itself. Every choice you make, from paper stock and binding to colour management and print quantity, shapes the experience of every child who holds your book. Getting those decisions right is not just about aesthetics. It is about honouring the work you have put into creating something meaningful.

At MC2, we take that responsibility seriously. We bring technical expertise, genuine enthusiasm for storytelling, and a commitment to quality that runs through every project we handle. Whether you are printing your first picture book or your fifth, we are here to make the process as smooth and rewarding as possible.

If you are ready to start your children's book printing Auckland journey, we would love to hear from you. Reach out to the MC2 team today and let's talk about bringing your story to life.

MC2 Print
28 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland
maria@mc2.co.nz | 021 824 933

The New Zealand board game scene is thriving. From family kitchens in Tauranga to gaming cafés in Wellington, Kiwis are spending more time around the table, rolling dice, drawing cards, and building friendships through play. And increasingly, creative minds across the country are not just playing board games, they are designing and producing their own.

Whether you are a game designer launching your first Kickstarter, a small business creating a branded game for corporate gifting, or a school developing an educational resource, board games printing in NZ is a growing and exciting space. But it is also a space filled with technical complexity, material decisions, and production pitfalls that can derail even the most brilliant concept.

That is where MC2 comes in. Based in Rosedale, Auckland, we specialise in high-quality, complex print projects, and custom board game printing is one of the most rewarding (and demanding) things we do. This guide covers everything you need to know before you press print.

Table of Contents

Why Custom Board Games Print NZ Is Booming

The global tabletop gaming industry has grown exponentially over the past decade, and New Zealand is no exception. According to Statistics New Zealand, consumer spending on leisure and entertainment has continued to rise, with physical gaming products seeing a notable resurgence as people seek screen-free social experiences.

For local designers and businesses, this creates a genuine opportunity. A custom-printed board game is not just a product, it is a physical experience that people hold, share, and remember. That tactile quality is something digital cannot replicate.

The rise of crowdfunding platforms has also lowered the barrier to entry for indie game creators. Kiwi designers are now pitching their concepts to global audiences and fulfilling orders locally, which makes having a reliable board games printing in NZ partner more important than ever.

Who Is Printing Custom Board Games in NZ?

The range of clients commissioning board games printing projects is broader than most people expect. We work with independent game designers, marketing agencies creating branded games for clients, educational institutions building learning tools, and charities producing fundraising games.

We also support small businesses that want to offer a unique, memorable gift. A custom-printed board game carrying your brand is a conversation starter that far outlasts a brochure or pen.

Understanding the Key Components of Board Game Printing

A board game is not a single print item, it is a collection of components that must work together visually and physically. Understanding what goes into a finished game helps you brief your printer accurately and avoid costly surprises. For a feel of what it's like to work with us, have a look at our testimonials page where brands we've printed for share their experience.

Each component has its own material, finish, and production requirements. When you treat them as separate items, you risk inconsistency. When you manage them together, you get a cohesive, professional result.

The Core Components of a Board Game

The game board itself is typically the centrepiece. It is usually printed on heavy greyboard and folded, with the print laminated or varnished to protect against wear. The fold style, whether a bi-fold, quad-fold, or custom configuration, affects both the feel and the production cost.

Cards are arguably the most technically demanding component in board games printing projects. They need to be the right weight for shuffling, printed with precise colour consistency, and cut cleanly to identical dimensions. Even a half-millimetre variance in card size can ruin the feel of a game.

Other components include custom dice, tokens, tiles, rule booklets, and packaging boxes. Each of these adds layers of complexity to the print run, which is why having an experienced print partner to coordinate the full project is essential rather than optional.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Game

Material selection is one of the most important decisions in any board games printing project. The materials you choose affect durability, aesthetics, player experience, and cost. Getting this right requires both creative vision and technical knowledge.

At MC2, we guide clients through these decisions based on their budget, audience, and intended use. A game destined for children needs different materials to a premium collector's edition aimed at adult hobbyists.

Paper, Board, and Finish Options

For game boards and tiles, greyboard with a laminated surface is the industry standard. The laminate can be gloss, matte, or soft-touch, each creating a distinctly different feel. Soft-touch laminate, for example, gives a luxurious, velvety finish that elevates a premium product considerably.

For cards, the typical weight range is 300gsm to 350gsm, with a linen texture or smooth finish depending on the game's aesthetic. Linen texture adds grip and reduces glare, which is practical for games with heavy card use. You can also add spot UV varnish or foil stamping to highlight specific design elements and create a premium impression.

Packaging boxes for board games printing projects are often where designers underinvest, and it shows. A beautifully produced game in a flimsy box signals poor quality before the lid is even lifted. We recommend rigid setup boxes or sturdy tuck-end cartons with a quality laminate as a minimum standard for any game intended for retail or gifting.

The Production Process: From Artwork to Finished Game

Understanding the production process helps you plan your timeline and budget realistically. board games printing projects are not overnight jobs — they involve multiple stages, each requiring review and sign-off before the next begins.

The process typically spans four to eight weeks depending on complexity, quantity, and the readiness of your artwork. Rushing any stage increases the risk of errors, and errors in print can be expensive. Our post sitemap covering our print insights and articles includes useful guidance on managing complex print timelines.

Stage one: briefing and scoping. We work with you to understand every component, the intended quantities, your timeline, and your budget. At this stage, we also flag any design considerations that could affect production.

Stage two: artwork preparation. Your designer supplies print-ready files. We review these for resolution, colour mode (CMYK, not RGB), bleed, and safe zones. Many board games printing projects stall here because artwork is not print-ready. We can help coordinate with your designer to resolve these issues before they cause delays.

Stage three: proofing. We produce physical or digital proofs for your approval. For board games, we strongly recommend physical proofs of cards and the game board to check colour accuracy, print quality, and component feel. This is not an optional step, it is your quality checkpoint.

Stage four: production. Once proofs are approved, the print run begins. Our role throughout production is to monitor quality at every stage, from colour calibration to cutting accuracy and binding. We manage the relationship with our production partners so you do not have to.

Stage five: quality check and delivery. Before your game leaves the press, we conduct a thorough quality review. Every component is checked against the approved proofs. Once satisfied, we coordinate delivery to your door or your fulfilment partner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Board Games Print NZ

We have seen many board games printing projects run into trouble, not because of bad design or poor ideas, but because of avoidable production mistakes. Here are the most common issues and how to sidestep them.

Submitting RGB artwork. Screens display colour in RGB. Print reproduces colour in CMYK. These are different colour models, and what looks vivid on your monitor can print flat or shifted in tone. Always convert files to CMYK and check with your printer before submission.

Ignoring bleed and safe zones. Bleed refers to the extra artwork that extends beyond the trim line to prevent white edges if the cut is slightly off. Safe zones ensure critical text and design elements are not accidentally trimmed. For cards in particular, this precision matters enormously.

Underestimating component coordination. A board game can involve ten or more distinct printed components, each with different specifications. Managing these separately across multiple suppliers is a recipe for inconsistency. A single, experienced print partner who manages the full project is far more reliable.

Skipping the physical proof. Digital proofs are useful, but they do not tell you how a card feels in your hand or whether the board sits flat after folding. Physical proofs are essential for board games printing projects where tactile quality is part of the product experience.

Ordering minimum quantities without considering reprint costs. Unit costs drop significantly at higher quantities. If you anticipate demand, it can be more economical to print a larger initial run than to reorder at a higher per-unit cost later. We can help you model this out before you commit.

Explore the full range of print and packaging services we offer at MC2 on our page, which covers everything from packaging to books, games and point of sale.

Why Work With MC2 for Your Board Games Print NZ Project

At MC2, we are not a generic online print shop. We are a specialist print broker based at 28 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland, and we bring hands-on expertise to every project we take on. Board Games printing projects suit our model particularly well because they require exactly the kind of technical oversight and supplier coordination that we do every day.

We manage your project from brief to delivery, handling the complexity so you can focus on your game. Our established supplier relationships mean we can source quality components at competitive prices, and our quality control process means you receive a product you are proud of.

We understand that for many of our clients, a custom board game represents a significant investment, financially and creatively. We treat that investment with the seriousness it deserves. Whether you are printing 100 copies for a corporate event or 2,000 copies for a retail launch, we apply the same rigour and care to every board games printing project.

Our warm, collaborative approach means you are never left guessing about where your project stands. We communicate clearly, flag issues early, and find solutions when challenges arise. That is what it means to have a real print partner rather than just a supplier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum quantity for a Board Games Print NZ order?

Minimum quantities vary depending on the complexity of the components involved. For most board games printing projects, a minimum run of 100 to 200 units is typical for short-run digital printing, while offset printing becomes more economical at higher volumes. We will advise you on the most cost-effective quantity based on your specific project requirements.

How long does a Board Games Print NZ project take from start to finish?

A standard board games printing project typically takes four to eight weeks once print-ready artwork is supplied and proofs are approved. More complex projects involving custom finishes, multiple component types, or large print runs may require additional lead time. We always recommend planning well ahead of your launch or event date to allow for proofing and any adjustments.

Can MC2 help with the design of my board game components?

MC2 specialises in print production and project management rather than graphic design. However, we work closely with trusted designers and can connect you with experienced professionals who understand print specifications for board games printing in NZ projects. We also review all supplied artwork to ensure it meets production requirements before the press run begins.

What file formats should I supply for Board Games Print NZ printing?

We accept print-ready PDF files as the preferred format for all board games printing components. Files should be in CMYK colour mode, at a minimum resolution of 300dpi, and include 3mm bleed on all sides. We provide a detailed technical brief at the start of every project to ensure your designer has everything they need to supply correct files.

Can MC2 print board games for Kickstarter fulfilment?

Yes, MC2 regularly works with independent game designers managing board games printing in NZ projects for Kickstarter and other crowdfunding campaigns. We understand the importance of meeting backer expectations with a high-quality physical product. We can advise on component specifications, quantities, and packaging to ensure your backers receive something truly impressive.

Final Thoughts

Custom board game printing is one of the most rewarding and technically demanding projects in the print world. When it is done well, the result is a physical product that people treasure, share, and talk about. When it is done poorly, the disappointment is equally tangible.

Board games printing is not just about putting ink on cardboard. It is about crafting an experience that holds together from the first unboxing to the hundredth play. Every component, every finish, every material choice contributes to that experience.

At MC2, we bring the expertise, the supplier relationships, and the genuine care to make your printing project a success. From the first conversation about your concept through to the moment your finished games are delivered, we are with you every step of the way.

If you are ready to bring your board game to life, we would love to hear about your project. Get in touch with the MC2 team today.

MC2 Print
Email: maria@mc2.co.nz
Phone: 021 824 933

In 1988, a Yellow Pages ad for Banner Travel mistakenly promoted “erotic travel” instead of “exotic travel” due to a typo by Pacific Bell, printers of Yellow Pages.

The error drove away much of Banner’s elderly clientele, reportedly cutting business by 80 per cent. While the Yellow Pages waived the $230 monthly ad fee, the agency’s owner, still dissatisfied, later filed a $10 million lawsuit.

The story is about an ad, but it is also a lesson on how important it is to have somebody managing the printing process to avoid costly errors.

Print brokers are more than the best deal-finders; we are technical experts who guide complex print projects from start to finish with precision, quality control, and industry insight—especially when things go wrong (and they will).

Some might argue that they hire a print broker to ensure things do not go wrong, but the highly technical and complex nature of long-run printing means that things can go wrong, especially where machinery is involved.

A print broker's role is to ensure that we overcome all challenges to deliver you a quality outcome—even fixing errors.

When print runs involve special requirements, such as unique packaging, high-end journals, or limited-edition tabletop games, a print broker can be the difference between a smooth process and a costly failure.

Why you need a print broker for complex print projects

High-volume print jobs face a range of quality and timing challenges, from managing paper and ink to maintaining machines. Small issues like colour calibration or paper alignment can quickly escalate, resulting in costly reprints or poor-quality outcomes.

A lot more than just a middleman

Print brokers leverage years of experience to advise on the best materials, finishes, and techniques for each project. From recommending durable, vivid paper for tabletop games to knowing each vendor’s strengths, here at MC2 we work to ensure high-quality results that would be challenging to achieve without industry connections.

Problem-solving and quality control

One of the key benefits of working with a print broker is our ability to anticipate and address issues in real-time. If a problem arises—like a supply delay or a technical glitch—our role as a print broker is to step in to troubleshoot. Hands-on management is especially valuable for complex jobs where errors can be costly.

Our job is to handle quality assurance at each stage of production, from proofing and colour checks to overseeing binding and final delivery—no detail is overlooked. This is particularly critical for projects with intricate artwork or custom finishes, such as embossing or foil stamping, where even minor flaws are highly visible.

Adding value beyond costs

While cost management is part of the role, print brokers add much more value by delivering technical support, managing production complexities and overcoming challenges. Established relationships with suppliers often allow for competitive pricing, but the focus is on quality and precision.

If you’re looking for reliable, professional print results, let’s chat.

MC2 Print – maria@mc2.co.nz | 021824933

TUBE  packaging is considered expensive in New Zealand despite its benefits because we only have a couple of TUBE packaging suppliers in the country, but MC2 can source packaging overseas for far less in the same amount of time. There’s no minimum quantity (although the per-unit price reduces with higher-volume orders).

Tube packaging is a ‘testament’ to ingenuity and sustainability and  can also be made from kraft stock, offering a unique blend of functionality, aesthetics, and environmental consciousness.

 

Recyclability and compostable

Stocks with a natural appearance and earthy tones can communicate that your products are eco-friendly. Kraft stock, for example, is recyclable and even compostable, meeting growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging options.

 

Perception, perception, perception

TUBE packaging exudes elegance but offers a robust structure that protects the product and adds to the perception of value. Whether it’s skincare products, gourmet foods, or speciality items, it’s the kind of packaging that helps create a customer experience because consumers often associate TUBE containers with quality and exclusivity—a nod to wine bottles and wheels of matured cheese, perhaps?

 

Customisation and Practical Considerations

At MC2, we specialise in customised packaging solutions. We offer free mock-ups for your tube packaging. Options like flat or rolled end tops cater to specific product needs.

 

TUBE packaging isn’t ornamental; it’s functional because it can be useful long after the product is removed.

While TUBE packaging can be expensive in New Zealand due to limited suppliers, MC2 leverages overseas sources. Our commitment to quality ensures that you receive the same or better product at a competitive cost.

Talk to us today about a free mock-up for your product packaging.

They say you can't judge a book by its cover, and that may be true of books. However, it certainly doesn't apply in the world of tabletop role-playing games (RPG) like Dungeons & Dragons because the role of the packaging and contents is to engage the imagination and inspire – both of which are critical to a game's appeal and identity.

Having worked with New Zealand based company Battlefront Miniatures on the Flames of War – a tabletop miniatures wargame primarily focused on World War battles – for more than a decade, as well as Gale Force Nine, MC2 was uniquely positioned to take on a vast RPG project for US based gaming company Beadle Grimm called "DM Vault for Planescape: Adventures in the Multiverse (D&D)".

Packaged in a beautifully embossed tin, the set is packed with everything a DM (Dungeon Master) needs to immerse players in the game world of Sigil and the Outlands, including:

The production of the game was as epic as the game itself. Using multiple elements like paper, board, textiles, tin, and plastic, MC2 worked closely with the directors, designers, writers and our printers to create the premium set.

Available in a limited quantity of 1000 in total, the production project involved months of meticulous planning and proofing, including embossing flat and textured tin – not to mention the co-ordination, liaison and collaboration that Maria Chapman of MC2 had to pull off to complete the project on budget and on time.

"The project drew on all our skills and contacts, including attention to detail, meticulous planning and project management, tenacity and negotiating skills, problem shooting and diplomacy – but we're relationship people, so we loved every minute of it."

Producing a special edition RPG game set is like conducting a vibrant symphony where multiple elements like printing, embossing, graphic design, packaging, and game pieces come together to create magic.

The new owner of Artwrap, a venture specialising in books of original New Zealand art decorated wrapping paper from local artists, knew he was on to a good thing, but the product was so unusual it would be a challenge deciding just where to even begin with such an unconventional product; in this case, two new books featuring wrapping for birthdays and Christmas.

Even for MC2, where we specialise in printing anything, the idea was new, but the process was not uncharted territory. That said, the production process posed significant challenges. The initial hurdle was the cost of printing in New Zealand – a staggering three times more expensive than alternatives. This is where MC2 stepped in, taking the reins of the project to produce not just a stunning, high-quality, cost-effective project.

The client had purchased a company that produced the books but needed more, including the technical services and know-how required to produce the books, essentially a new product.

 

 

Research and Development: Understanding the existing product and envisioning the new.

Meetings and Planning: Discuss previous efforts and new requirements, including the desire for more designs (10 instead of 8) and addressing issues like the problematic perforation in the books. The perforation had to be strong but not too strong that the wrapping paper would tear.

Exploring Printing Options: While local printers were considered, the cost led MC2 to look abroad. Ultimately, printing was outsourced to China, balancing quality and affordability.

Perfecting the books

Creating a mock-up was crucial because it allowed MC2 to fine-tune details like the perforation and ensure the quality of the final product. The book, unfolding into A1-sized sheets with six folds, was printed on premium 128gsm satin matt stock, featuring stunning designs by New Zealand artists.

Logistical hurdles

One of the biggest challenges was managing the pre-press process and logistics. Ensuring timely delivery for the Christmas season meant opting for airfreight – a decision driven by the time-critical nature of the project, making the logistics a complex balance of timing, quality control, and coordination.

Reception and prospects

The result was nothing short of remarkable. The wrapping paper books received a warm reception at markets, particularly the Collective Christmas Market. This success has paved the way for further development and expansion of Artwrap's presence.

The journey with MC2 was more than just creating a product; it was about building a brand that resonated with the New Zealand spirit. From liaising with graphic designers to ensuring print-ready files, every step broke new ground for the publisher of the gift-wrapping books, culminating in a product that the publisher and customers alike were proud of.

Overall, the outcome underscores MC2's ability to navigate the complexities of product development, especially for a client new to the industry. It showcases how challenges can be opportunities with the proper guidance, innovation, and collaboration. The wrapping paper books are not just products; they celebrate New Zealand art and symbolise what can be achieved with vision and the right partners.