What is a proof in printing?
In short
A proof is a preview of how your printed item will look, which you check and approve before it is printed. Nothing is printed until the proof is approved.
A proof is your last look at the job before it is printed: a preview of the artwork at the size and layout it will print, for you to check and approve. Once you approve it, that is what goes to print, so the proof is the moment to catch mistakes.
The proofs we offer
| Proof | What happens | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| On-screen proof | Your uploaded design is shown with the trim line, bleed and safe area marked, and you approve it before you pay | Included with every order |
| Manual proof | A person checks your file and sends you a proof to approve | Fee shown in the basket |
Every upload also gets a free automatic check for size, bleed, colour mode, resolution and fonts before you see the proof. Dispatch is counted in working days from the moment you approve.
What to check on a proof
The checks look at how the file is built, not at what it says, so read every word yourself:
- names, job titles and spellings;
- phone numbers, email and web addresses;
- dates, times, prices and postcodes;
- that nothing important sits outside the safe area;
- that the right file is on the right side or page.
Colour on screen
An on-screen proof shows layout and content accurately, but screens light colours from behind and print doesn't, so printed colours can look slightly different. See proofs and checks for what each check covers.