Approving a print proof is one of the most important steps in the custom printing process. The short answer is simple: before approving your proof, carefully check spelling, design placement, colours, sizes and all personalised details. Taking a few extra minutes can help prevent costly mistakes and delays later on.
Whether you're ordering custom clothing, stickers, posters or event merchandise, reviewing your proof properly helps ensure the finished product matches your expectations.
Why Print Proofs Matter
A print proof gives you the opportunity to review your design before production begins. Once an order moves into production, changes may no longer be possible, so it is important to check everything carefully.
Proofs are designed to help spot mistakes early and avoid problems that might only become obvious after the products have been printed.
Review Design Placement
Check that logos, artwork and text are positioned where you expect them to be. Placement can make a big difference to the overall appearance of the finished product.
For example, on custom clothing, make sure you are happy with front prints, back prints and chest placements before giving approval.
Keep in mind that digital previews are intended as visual guides, and slight adjustments may be required during production depending on the garment and print area.
Confirm Sizes and Quantities
Before approving your order, double-check that all quantities and product selections are correct.
Ask yourself:
- Have I chosen the correct garment sizes?
- Is the quantity accurate?
- Have I selected the right colours?
- Are all product options correct?
Correcting these details before production starts is much easier than trying to change them afterwards.
Check Artwork Quality
Low-resolution files, unwanted backgrounds or poor-quality images can affect the final result.
Zoom into the proof and look carefully at:
- Blurry edges
- Pixelation
- Transparency issues
- Unexpected outlines
- Background remnants
If something doesn't look right, it is always worth raising the question before approving the proof.
Understand Colour Differences
Colours displayed on screens do not always appear exactly the same when printed. Different devices display colours differently, and some variation between digital previews and physical products is normal.
The goal is to reproduce your artwork as accurately as possible, but exact colour matching cannot always be guaranteed unless special arrangements have been made.
Think About the Final Use
A design that looks great on a screen may behave differently when printed on clothing or promotional materials. Consider how the product will be used and viewed in real life.
For example, merchandise for festivals and club nights often needs to be bold and easy to read from a distance. If you're planning a launch or event, our Event Merch service can help you create products that work together as part of a complete package.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Approving the proof too quickly.
- Not checking spelling properly.
- Ignoring artwork quality issues.
- Assuming colours will appear exactly the same as on screen.
- Forgetting to verify quantities and sizes.
- Overlooking small details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after I approve a print proof?
Once approval has been received, production can begin. Depending on the product and workflow, changes may no longer be possible after this stage.
Can I request changes to the proof?
Yes. If something needs adjusting, it is always better to raise it before approving the proof.
Will the finished product look exactly like the proof?
The proof is intended as a visual guide. Small differences in colour, scale or placement may occur during production.
Do all orders require proofs?
Not necessarily. Some products and workflows may not require a proof, while others may involve additional review steps.
Need Help With Your Artwork?
Whether you're ordering clothing, stickers or promotional print, taking the time to review your proof carefully can help avoid unnecessary problems. You can browse our full range of services through our services page or explore our custom clothing and custom sticker options.
If you have any questions or would like advice before approving your artwork, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.