
Major Mistakes to Avoid when Proofing Print Projects (Part 1)
Part 1 of 2
Success in creating and delivering a compelling marketing campaign or outstanding print project starts before any of the ink hits the page. This is because before printing begins, there is a multi-layered process known as proofing that is meant to ensure everything that a client expects from their project is exactly what they will receive.
During this process, a designer takes a client’s design and creates what is known as a proof, or an exact replica or example of the finished product. It is up to the client to carefully inspect this proof to ensure it adheres to their particular specifications. Below are several key tips for avoiding costly mistakes in the print proofing process:
Mistake 1: Proofreading
One of the most important details to look out for and inspect in a proof is also seemingly the most simple: checking a proof for any and all spelling and grammar mistakes. It often goes without saying, but spelling, punctuation, and grammar mistakes in signs, graphics, and printed materials are some of the most common mistakes that can slip under the radar during the proofing process. To ensure that this doesn’t happen, it is recommended to slow down, read every word and phrase, and even show another individual the text and content that is to be printed. Spelling and grammar mistakes have the potential to negatively impact a client’s credibility in the eyes of the consumer or end-user by portraying them as being without care, organization, or precision.
Mistake 2: Layout and Alignment
There are two layout guidelines that should be considered with every print project: bleeds and cut lines.
Cut lines: This is where the printed piece will be cut after printing. It is important to design all important text, content, and graphics far enough away from the cut lines to ensure that they will not get cut off during the print production process. Similarly, if a printed piece folds, it is highly important to consider where the folds will go so that all content can align to the panel it will be folded within. Panels on the front and the back of a folded piece will need to align as well.
Bleeds: The backgrounds, borders, and fields of color of any printed piece should extend beyond the cut lines to ensure that there is no unintended white space around the edges of a printed piece. For instance, if you would like a design element to appear right at the edge of a piece, it will need to be extended beyond the cut line to ensure a seamless look and consistency amongst print pieces within the same project.
Check back next week for more tips on what to avoid when proofing out your print project! Ready to start your next project? Let us know!