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. Online & hard proof options are available.

• We recommend the PDF proof, as it provides the most accurate view of your file. When your proof is ready, we will send you an email with a link to your PDF proof, as well as attempt to contact you by phone. If you don't have the necessary Acrobat Reader software, Adobe offers it as free download.
• We can also provide a JPEG proof if you don't have Acrobat Reader and are not interested in using it. We will post a webpage containing a preview of your file that you can easily view with your favorite web browser. We will email you the address to this private website when the JPEG proof is ready, as well as attempt to contact you by phone.

We offer two "hard" proof options-hard copy mock-ups & hard copy proofs.

• Be aware that hard proofs add time and cost.
• While hard proofs provide a better sense of color than online proofs, they are not intended to be, and cannot be, a precise color match to your final printed piece.
• When placing your order specify in "Special Instructions" which hard proof you prefer and that you agree to pay the additional charges. Once we receive your order, we will update your preferences and email you a revised receipt.

The hard copy mock-up should be used to verify composition and content of your piece. It is NOT intended as a color guide.

• The mock-up will be sent via Next Day Air and does not need to be returned. Prices are the same for one or two sides and include cutting, folding, stitching and any other work necessary to produce an accurate mock-up.

The hard copy proof has good color accuracy; however it should be considered a close approximation. When you approve and return the hard copy proof, we will strive to match the color of the proof when printing your final piece. 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.

• The hard copy proof will be sent via Next Day Air. Return slips are sent with the proof as it must be returned prior to printing. Prices are the same for one or two sides and include cutting, folding, stitching and any other work necessary to produce an accurate mock-up.

Proof Approval- Yes, It's Required
You should receive your online proof within two business days after we receive your electronic files. (If you are paying by check, we will not post a proof until we receive payment of the initial $39 processing fee.)

• Hard copy mock-ups and hard copy proofs will be overnighted via Next Day Air generally the same day we post your online proof.
• When your online proof is ready, we will email you a link to the proofing page. We will also try to reach you by phone. In addition to the email link, proofs can be accessed through the Order Status page.

There are two versions of your proof on the proofing page:

• Proof PDF or JPG Image: A low-resolution version of your file at final trim size, down-sampled for shorter download times. Includes fold line indicators when appropriate. Recommended for dial-up connections.
• Press-Ready PDF: This is the full-resolution file which will be used to create your plates. Includes .125" bleed margins, order number and printer's marks which will not appear in the finished trimmed piece.
  - Your text may falsely appear jagged in the full-size (zoomed out) PDF. The inability to accurately preview
    vector text is a known weakness of Adobe Acrobat.
  - Select the magnification tool and zoom in to the text. It should now preview clear and crisp; this is how it will
    print. If it still appears jagged when zoomed in, contact us.
  
  
  

The speed of your proof download is dependent on file size, Internet connection speed and the volume of Internet traffic.

It's easy to make changes to your order attributes-quantity, paper type, ink, coating and folding.

1. Click on the "Change Your Order" link, found in either the upper left or right corner of your screen. You can also go directly to the Change Order Request page. Enter your 8- or 9-digit order number in the left-hand column.

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

1. Print out a "hard copy" of the online proof and compare it to a printout of the original file you sent to us. We have found that it is much easier to proofread and catch minor changes on paper than on a computer monitor.
   • Keep in mind that most desktop printers will cause significant inaccuracies in panel sizes and margins. This resizing is NOT part of your file-be assured that we have checked and adjusted your project so that it has proper bleed and panel dimensions.
2. Have a friend or co-worker give the proof a quick review; a second set of eyes will often notice things that you overlook.
3. Look at these common problem areas particularly carefully: