Who does your printed ads?

[mamaMAMAma]

I'm really glad to find this new forum. I've been a wahm for about 1 1/2 years now, selling waldorf-inspired toys, children shoes, organic baby clothes and other baby products (no dipes! )
I'm looking into printed ads and was attempting to do the ad myself. Unfortunately, I don't think I have the correct software to do it. I'm looking into small/tiny ads (1/8 - 1/6 of a page). I can't quite get the fonts "viewable". I'm using PaintPro software. What kind of software do you use if you're creating your own ads? And if you're hiring someone to do the work, how much should I expect to pay? I have the design and layout already, I just needed someone to create the actual ad (ie if the software is too expensive to buy).

[LaLa]

We use photoshop and Image ready for the ads we make for SleepingBean.
The key is having a high enough resolution and high enough dpi for print. Always follow the specs for whom you are advertising with to get a good looking ad!
Also, I"ve found many people willing to trade work for product. For example, we are getting a wooden kitchen for trade for a catalog.

I usually just email people I'm interested in trading with and offer whatever services I have/can. Maybe you could try that?

[mamaMAMAma]

I'm looking at Photoshop and Digital Image Pro 7 (I assume thats what Image stands for). Is Image sufficient to create ads? I have a 1/6 page and then a 1 inch ad on Mothering. Image is half the price of Photoshop, and from the descriptions might be more user friendly. I just wanted to check with you gals before buying it. Also, any other software I should be looking at?

[LaLa]

Adobe Image was the other one I use, but that is for banner stuff.

For print ads I just use Photoshop

Many people use Quark, but I've never used it.

Photoshop can be a very powerful tool with a lot of tricks. It would be worthwhile to get some good instructional books or classes! There is way more then you could probably stumble upon!

I am just now learning about layer masks...ooooo.....look out! LOL

There is just so much TO the program.
I really like it, but I don't know if it is the best.
I do get good results. Do you have a Mothering Subscription>? You could look at the Jan/Feb issue to see a color ad that we did on photoshop to see how it turns out once it goes to print.
I did 300dpi for that ad.
I think the b&w ads we did at 300dpi also.

[veganmamma]

I just did a print ad with a WAHM ad co-op. The ad was 600 dpi and I had the woman who designed my website do it for me. She is also doing my banner ad. I think she did it in adobe photoshop. If you want her to do yours, her website is www.sextondesign.com and you can email her through there. I think she is going to start doing more WAHM stuff.
Lauren