Print Specifications

Term from Comic Book Creation industry explained for recruiters

Print Specifications are detailed instructions that guide how a comic book should be printed and produced. These instructions cover everything from paper type and ink colors to page sizes and binding methods. Think of them as a recipe that tells the printer exactly how to create the final comic book. Having clear print specifications helps ensure that comics look consistent and meet quality standards, whether they're being printed in small batches or large runs. When people mention "print specs" or "printing requirements," they're usually talking about the same thing.

Examples in Resumes

Created detailed Print Specifications for a 12-issue comic series

Managed quality control by developing standardized Print Specs for manga publications

Collaborated with printers to optimize Print Specifications for cost-effective production

Typical job title: "Production Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Production Manager Print Production Coordinator Comics Production Assistant Print Production Manager Production Editor Publishing Coordinator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a comic book's colors look different in print than they did on screen?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss color calibration, printer profiles, paper types' effect on color, and the process of requesting and reviewing printer proofs before full production.

Q: What factors do you consider when creating print specifications for a new comic book series?

Expected Answer: Should mention budget considerations, paper quality choices, binding options, print run size impact, special effects like spot varnishes, and how these choices affect both quality and cost.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What information must be included in basic print specifications?

Expected Answer: Should list essential elements like page size, paper type, color requirements, binding method, cover specifications, and any special finishes or treatments.

Q: How do you ensure print quality remains consistent across multiple issues of a series?

Expected Answer: Should discuss maintaining detailed specifications records, using printer proofs as reference, regular quality checks, and communication with printing vendors.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between CMYK and RGB color systems?

Expected Answer: Should explain that CMYK is for printing (using cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks) while RGB is for screens, and why this matters for comic book production.

Q: What are common binding methods for comic books?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe staple binding (saddle-stitch), perfect binding, and when each might be used based on page count and budget.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of print terminology
  • Ability to read and understand print specifications
  • Knowledge of standard comic book formats
  • Basic quality control checks

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Creating detailed print specifications
  • Managing printer relationships
  • Understanding paper types and printing methods
  • Budget management for print projects

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced production troubleshooting
  • Print vendor negotiation
  • Team coordination
  • Strategic production planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic printing terminology
  • Unfamiliarity with standard comic book formats
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • Poor communication skills with printers and team members
  • No experience with print quality control

Related Terms