About Proof

What Proof?

A "proof" is a preview of your press-ready file, allowing you to examine and confirm layout, text and content before your order goes to press. We rely on your thorough inspection of the proof to detect and correct errors. Orders will not go to press until we receive your proof approval.

What proof options are available in printedinchinaonline.com

Online PDF proofs are optimized for fast web downloads, and as a result, may appear "pixelized". It should be noted that the final printed pieces will not appear in this manner, provided that the customer supplied artwork complies with our Artwork Guidelines. Furthermore, due to the variation in monitor colors and adjustments, PDF proofs may not provide an accurate color representation of the final printed work. It is recommended that a hard copy proof be purchased for all.

Digital Hard-copy proofs/color proofs are produced by digital printer. without trimming and binding. Because of differences in equipment, paper, inks, and other conditions between color proofing and production pressroom operations, a "pleasing color" variation between color proofs and the completed job [as determined by generally accepted trade technical methods] is to be expected. When such a variation occurs, it will be considered acceptable performance.

Press proofs/ wet proofs are produced by offset press, and same equipment, paper and process as mass product. However, we print to industry-wide "pleasing color" standards using standard ink densities. Also, paper brightness, paper type, applied coatings and ambient light can and will affect color. A sample is 85% - 95% color accurate

When will my proofs be ready?

Online PDF proofs are usually available in 48 hours after we receive the files
Digital Hard-copy proofs/color proofs are usually shipped out in 48 house after we receive the files
Press proofs/ wet proofs are usually shipped out around 5-10 days after we receive the files

Proofing Tips

Here are some tips and guidelines to help you in finding potential errors in your file, BEFORE it goes to press

Check proofs for accuracy against hard-copy proof and samples:

• Are all pages included in the proof?
• Are the pages in the proper order & page numbers correct?
• Are all images/photos included and in proper placement?
• Measure the final trim size and check folds for accuracy.

Check for image quality and color accuracy

• Are photos cropped correctly? Are all photos facing the proper direction?
• Do photos & graphics have good contrast?
• Check color placement & color consistency throughout the pages. If you have received a color accurate proof, are the colors correct?

Check general accuracy of fonts, bleeds, and crossovers:

• Are all fonts correct?
• Is the text crisp & spaced properly?
• Are the margins & page alignment(s) correct?
• Are there any missing characters or broken type?
• Verify that bleeds extend beyond the trim marks.

Double check set-up and print specifications:

• Verify any finishing elements like die-cuts, embossing, foils, varnishes, etc.
• Confirm the weight and color of the final paper stock.
• Check indicia for accuracy (if item is used for mailing).

View this proof as if it was your finished product. Once this proof has been approved there is no turning back!

More Questions:

Why are "L's" and "I's" appearing bold and thick on my proof? This is only the low-resolution proof and is a result of converting fonts to outlines. If you zoom in on your proof, they will appear as usual. The letters will print normally.

What should I know about viewing files on my monitor? You might notice that the colors on the printed piece may not exactly match the colors you see on your monitor. The age and or calibration of your monitor can affect the colors in comparison to the printed product.

CAUTION:
Screen colours are never accurate; please check your CMYK or Pantone (PMS) specifications. Any files received in any other colour format (i.e.: RGB, Lab, HSB) will still be printed and may not reproduce as your expectations; Printedinchinaonline.com will not be responsible for any colour variations/errors.