Why It’s Important to Check In On Your Press Check
In the past, press checks for litho printing or large format printing were essential.
Modern technology has allowed for many improvements in handling certain aspects of press checks remotely. And during Covid we certainly explored creative ways to check work from a distance. However, nothing beats an in person check at press to ensure the final result is what you want. A press check is a critical step, perhaps you’re wondering why.
So, What is a Press Check?
A press check is your final chance to sign off on your project, onsite at the printer.
At this stage, the press is set up for the production run but, before everything is printed, a review of the first sheets on the actual paper stock allows for final review and adjustments.
This is where details need to be examined with an eagle’s eye. This is also where you approve of color accuracy.
Press checks are especially important when it comes to matching brand colors, having large areas of solid color, registration, being sure the bleeds are pulled, double-checking that the paper is the correct stock, weight, and confirming that all content, photos and graphic elements are in place.
A Check List For Your Press Checks
While attending your press check is important, you may be unsure of what to expect, or what to look for. The pressman will pull your sheet and that is when you roll up your sleeves, get out that Pantone book if Pantone colors are being used, and meticulously inspect your project. Here are a few things to look for:
Is the correct and approved version of your approved proof on-hand at press?
Is the paper being used for the production run the stock you ordered?
Is the press running the job properly calibrated?
Are the colors precise and correct?
Is the consistency, trapping, and registration as expected?
Are there any imperfections?
Does it align perfectly when folded?
At Bigger Dot, we’ve done more press checks than we can count, and we will gladly be there to walk you through this important process.
Why is a Press Check So Critical?
You can always request to check a PDF on your home or office monitor, but colors, for example, can appear much differently on a monitor than at press. While the review of the proof online is convenient an in-person review insures color and print quality matches your expectations. This is just one of the reasons why we suggest putting some final eyes on a project that you’re fully invested in.
We understand that your time is valuable. Because this process is so important, we always strive to be flexible and accommodating when it comes to scheduling your press check. With Bigger Dot attending the press check alongside you or on your behalf, you can be assured to achieve the best possible results.
We’ve been producing print for decades, so we know a thing or two about press checks. We know what questions to ask, what surprises to anticipate, what to look for. The goal is that your brand will be well represented in print and be noticed for all the right reasons just like you envisioned it.
Press on with Bigger Dot.
