When I coordinate printing for a client, I always make sure I attend the press check. It doesn’t matter how much I trust the printer. The press check is usually the first time you’ll have the opportunity to see exactly how your artwork will turn out. Here’s a quick look at the process and things I look for when attending a press check.
Before the press check can even be scheduled, your printer should have supplied you with high-quality proofs. Be aware that your proofs were most likely not printed using the same materials or color process that will be used to run your job. Evaluate the proofs for placements of the design elements and for color.
Also make sure to PROOFREAD everything carefully. The press check is not the time to catch a typo. Printers have the ability to adjust color and registration on press, but if a serious mistake is found on a press check, your job will have to be pulled to have the artwork corrected. Once you have approved the proof the printer will schedule your press time.
When you attend a press check, make sure to arrive on time and be prepared to do a lot of waiting. If you are running multiple jobs, there will often be a several hour wait between print runs. The wait is always worth it when you first see your artwork printed
Press check for Enjoy Life Foods
The first thing I evaluate is the printing registration. Make sure to take a very close look at all of the graphic elements to ensure that everything lines up correctly. Often times, elements with a small line weight or drop shadows can be slightly out of register. If you notice something that isn’t lining up quite right, tell your printer and they can usually make a minor adjustment to correct the problem.
Next, I take a close look at the color. As mentioned, you are probably seeing your artwork printed on its final material for the first time. Different materials absorb ink in different ways. It’s not unusual for color to seem brighter or more subdued on different paper stock.
If you are trying to match a color to the proof or another printed piece, make sure you have a sample with you. Your printer can adjust color on press only to a certain degree. If you make one area darker or lighter, it will usually affect the other colors around it. Don’t be afraid to ask for the color to be adjusted more than once. Your printer will let you know when they’re out of options.
When you’re comfortable with the final version, your printer will ask you to sign the form and then they’re off! Some printers have the technology to digitally image the version you approved and compare it to every form as it’s being printed. Even a piece of dust landing on the paper will let the pressman know it found a flaw.
Good luck on your next print job. I hope these tips help. I’d love to hear your experiences on press checks in the comments!
Nature’s Hand press check