What Is A Printed Proof?

A printed proof can be run out digitally (Digital Proof) or on the printing press (Wet Proof). A Digital proof can be printed on an Inkjet, Bubble Jet or Laser printer, the best quality and most widely used being an Inkjet proof (Cromalin).

On the other hand a wet proof is printed on the actual printing press using the machine, printed plates, paper and inks that will be used to produce the final job. This way you can see exactly how the job will come out. Due to the fact the plates have been created if you were to change something at this late stage it will probably cost you money to get new plates made so be careful and ask your printer for advice.

Commonly a digital proof will be used to check text and alignment whereas a wet proof will give you an accurate run out to check images and colours.

In print the need for accuracy on the press is key to a successful job. An approved printed proof gives the printer something to match and compare with how it's printing on the day. The last thing a printer wants is for the customer to look at the finished work and be unhappy.

It's always recommended to get some form of proof for a job no matter how small the print run. Quite often the printer will include a proof with the job so don't be afraid to ask.

As I mentioned a wet proof is the best way to check how imagery or colours will come out and crucial for accuracy. There are far too many variables from the depth of colour in an image to the way they run out on the chosen paper on press. Believe me it's worth the extra cost!

As they say on Crimewatch, "Don't have nightmares, get yourself a printed proof and do sleep well". Maybe it was just me that heard that?!