Magazine Design / Art Direction / Image Correction / Full Layout Design
Magazine design and production for an established publishing company.
Practical Publishing found themselves in a tight spot when a key team member unexpectedly left just as a magazine issue was approaching deadline. With no in-house designer to take over the layout, production, or coordination of the publication, they urgently needed someone who could step in immediately, pick up the brand style quickly, and keep everything on track for print.
Squark Design was recommended at just the right time, and brought in to take control of the situation with just days left before the issue had to go to press.
From day one, we hit the ground running, absorbing the magazine’s existing style guidelines, reviewing flat plans, and liaising directly with the editorial team to identify priorities and fill gaps.
We worked intensively to get Issue 8 of Crafty finalised and press-ready within days. This meant designing a significant number of pages under serious time pressure, preparing artwork for repro and ensuring everything met print specifications without compromising the magazine’s aesthetic.
After successfully delivering that issue, Practical Publishing asked us to stay on to support the team for the next three months, covering Issues 9 and 10 and offering continued support across additional titles when needed. Our role included:
– Full layout design and art working for print
– Managing last-minute editorial changes
– Maintaining the publication’s style while adding fresh, creative touches
– Working flexibly and always being available via phone or email
– Collaborating directly with editors and production staff to stay on schedule
We ensured all three issues were completed and delivered on time, helping Practical Publishing maintain consistency and quality during a critical transition period. The team appreciated not just the fast turnaround, but also the creative input, communication and calm approach under pressure.
This short-term collaboration made a big impact, delivering high-quality, on-brand publications right when the team needed support most.
“Michelle joined the team at a tricky time… did a brilliant job of picking up the style of Crafty immediately, while not being afraid to share her own ideas. She was unflappable in the face of looming deadlines, unforeseen editorial changes and a stressed-out editor!”
Sarah Adie, Editor,
Crafty Magazine
“Michelle from Squark Design has worked with Practical Publishing over the last 2 years across our key titles and has done an excellent job on what has been generally short notice. I would recommend Michelle 100%.”
Danny Bowler, Managing Director,
Practical Publsihing
"We are dedicated to building long-term relationships with our clients, supporting them through the growth and success of their brand. When you choose Squark Design, you’re not just getting a service provider; you’re gaining a partner committed to your brand’s success."
