Presto Labels Blog

Why do I need a proof?

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When printing an order for the first time, or changing your label printer, it is difficult to imagine what the final printed product will look like. Every press prints a bit differently and different presses use different types of inks, which look different when applied to different substrates. All these variables will affect how your label will look when printed. To alleviate the unknown before you invest in a full label run, Presto Labels offers a variety of proofing options. Let’s look at the different types of proofs, and why Presto Labels offers each type.

Digital PDF Proof

Digital-PDF-Proof

After submitting your artwork, the pre-press department will email you a digital PDF proof, free of charge. Digital PDF proofs are for layout proofing purpose only. They are not an accurate representation of color or quality. When you receive this digital PDF proof, check it carefully. Most of the time, this will be the last chance you have to make any changes or corrections before your labels are printed.

Here are things to check when you receive your digital PDF proof:

  1. Sometimes fonts and graphics are linked to artwork. Check to make sure the fonts and graphics look correct and confirm all pieces of the artwork are there.
  2. Make sure the size of your label is specified correctly.
  3. If you need us to match a color, make sure that it is specified on the proof.
  4. Confirm that the correct material is specified on the proof.
  5. Confirm that the unwind direction will work with your equipment and is correctly specified on the proof.
  6. Make sure the maximum outside diameter of the label roll (OD) will work with your equipment and is correctly specified on the proof.
  7. If you are printing white ink, make sure the white layer is correct.
  8. Check that the dieline (cut line) is the shape and size you specified.

Press Proof

Printed-Proof

If you have apprehension about how your labels will look when printed, especially if you want to match a color or spot PMS color, if you are printing your labels for the first time, or if you are using a new material, it is a good idea to order a press proof. Press proofs are provided at your request, for a cost. They allow you to see what your label will look like before you spending money on a full print run. Press proofs are printed directly from our press, on specified material, and with varnish as specified on your order. Press proofs are not cut to size, but we do print the dieline (cut line) so you can see the size and shape of your label. Press proofs represent accurate print, material, color, and quality and are shipped to you overnight.
Spot PMS colors cannot be matched 100%. PMS colors must be converted into 4-color process colors on our digital press. The press proof will show you how close we can get to the sample you submitted, or to the PMS color you requested.

Here are things to check when you receive your press proof:

1) The label looks like you wanted it to.
2) Colors are acceptable.
3) The text is clear and easy to read.
4) The material provides the look and feel you wanted to achieve.
5) The dieline shows how you want your label cut.
6) Double check your spelling and grammar. Don’t let a typo go to press!

Press Proof & Laser Cut

Print-&-Laser-Cut

If you would like your press proof to be printed and cut to size, you want to order a press proof & laser cut. Press proofs are printed directly from our press, on specified material, and with varnish as specified on your order. These press proofs are also cut to the size and shape specified on your artwork with our lasers. Press proof & laser cut represents accurate print, material, color, cut and quality, and are shipped to you overnight. Press proof & laser cut will cost more than a press proof that has not been cut.

Press Proofs for Labels

Press proofs, and press proofs that are laser cut, tell you a lot more about how your label will look than a digital PDF file. By investing in a printed proof, you will be able to confirm that what we print is what you want–before spending money on a full production run.
Have additional questions about our proofs or artwork requirements? Give us a call at: (877) 830-3851 or email customerservice@prestolabels.com and we’ll happily help to answer your questions.