Introduction

Graphic designers and others responsible for preparing printed materials frequently refer to a variety of diagrams, swatches, templates, conversion tables, and other resources that help them do their job. However, few designers have all the resources they need at their fingertips. Those who work independently, or in small studio environments, often find themselves wasting time searching the Web or seeking out other sources for the information they need. Others in large studio or agency environments may have access to a vast library of resources but find themselves spending just as much time looking through volumes of materials before they find the information they need.

The Graphic Design Reference and Specification Book is a compilation of essential information—a reference manual that provides designers with information they need on a daily basis, from consulting a library of type samples, to identifying a specific font, to checking the style and dimensions of a specific type of envelope, to under-standing when it is appropriate to abbreviate a state or country name in the acceptable format. There’s even a bibliography at the end of the book to help, if additional information is needed.

The Graphic Design Reference and Specification Book was created to answer the questions that designers ask most often and to deliver this information in a concise, understandable, and easy-to-access way. No frills, no excess—just bottom-line information to help you produce your projects.