The Purpose of the Proof
If you ever get just a little nervous whenever you finalize a printing project, a proof is for you! A proof is a sample of the final print that allows you to review and approve the design before it is printed in large quantities. Printing proofs are important because they allow us to ensure that the final printed product matches your intended design. As a result, you can avoid costly and time-consuming errors.
If that’s not enough convincing for you, we’ve rounded up the top four reasons to get a proof before final printing! Here are our top four reasons why you should get a proof before final printing, plus more tips on the creation process.
1. CATCH ERRORS
Sending a proof allows you to catch any errors in the design or layout, such as typos, incorrect colors or misaligned text and images. Catching these errors early can save time and money by avoiding the need to reprint the entire order – that’s never fun!
2. ENSURE ACCURACY
A proof ensures that the final print matches the intended design, including the size, color and placement of images and text.
3. CONFIRM SATISFACTION
Reviewing a proof before printing ensures you are satisfied with the design and layout. If changes are needed, they can be made before the final print is produced.
4. AVOID MISUNDERSTANDINGS
A proof provides a clear record of what was approved for printing, which can help to avoid misunderstandings.
Now that you know why a proof is important, let’s talk about the process. Sending a proof for printing is an essential step in the printing process that can help ensure the quality and accuracy of the final product. On our end, we send the proof but it is equally important for you to take the time to review and approve a proof.
Need some tips for your artwork to be its best? See our Printing Guidelines Here
Is there ever a time that we don’t send a proof? Yes! Unless requested, we do not send proofs for repeat orders or with a new order when the design has been declared final. Skipping the proofing process helps get your order on the press more swiftly and ensures your timeline is met.
Swift Says – When you get your proof in your email, print it on your home or work printer or ask us about a printed proof sample. Colors can vary depending on your printer, but seeing it IRL can give you a fresh look. Another tip? Read the copy backwards to catch typos.
Lastly, grab a friend and get a fresh set of eyes to review. Someone is on their way to the water cooler or between meetings? Show them the proof without explaining anything! You may be surprised what they’ll find. Even better, do this step before you send us your files. A second look at artwork during any stage of the process is (almost) always a good thing!
We know you needed these printed yesterday, but this is the part where you need to take a deep breath and S-L-O-W down. Stand five feet back from your document and ask yourself the five W’s: who, what, where, when and why.
Who is invited? Try and think like your target audience.
What is it? If the event has a name, theme or overall purpose, make it clear!
Where is it? Don’t forget the address (including special instructions or parking details!).
When is it? Include the date, time, and RSVP details if necessary.
Why is this important? Include a call to action and offer access to more information. At Swift, we love QR Codes because they help blend print and digital. QR codes also give you analytics so you’ll know how many times it was scanned!
