Articles

Anyone who has ever had anything printed through printing services knows you must ensure the designs come out looking exactly like you see on your screen. And for some scenarios, the best way to do it is through press checks. 

WHAT ARE PRESS CHECKS, AND WHEN DO YOU DO THEM?

A press check is a proofing process where the client checks proof on the actual material off the press on-site of a printing services provider. Foote Printing has done several press checks over the years, although they do not do them as frequently these days because digital printing has dramatically evolved over the years. However, press checks are necessary for the following scenarios:

• When matching important corporate colors,
• When your design contains spot colors, which you cannot afford to look like something else, and
• When you are using stock, uncoated sheets because some colors look different printed on gloss stock than on uncoated paper 

WHAT HAPPENS DURING PRESS CHECKS? 

• 1. Make Ready. Make Ready, which takes about 30 to 60 minutes, is the process where the printer prepares the following before the client arrives on site: 
• Getting the plates on the press,
• Readying the inks, 
• Getting the water and ink balance ready, 
• Make sure the color density is correct, 
• Matching the sample proof, an old sample, or the design on the screen, and
• Double-checking the spot colors on the job versus the printer’s spot color book, etc.

1. 2. The client comes and checks the press test proof. The client then looks at the press test proof and compares the test proofs with their designs, old samples, or whatever they have as a reference. They can also check for errors, if any. 
   3. The client and printer work together to get the product as close to desired output as possible. The printer will perform plate changes or design adjustments with the client’s input to match the printed product with the client’s expectations. 

If you require printing services, note that Foote Printing does press checks and many more. Check out our site, or contact us to learn more about our printing services.