Press Check Checklist

Press Check Notes

• Bring a second person and put them on task for proofreading.
• The press sheet cannot exactly match either the original copy or the original proof.
• Bring the original copy, the ink and paper swatches, and the final OK’d proofs.
• Compare color match items.
• Obtain an overall impression: slowly scan the entire press sheet.
• Does the sheet being used match the specified sheet/paper?
• Are spot ink colors correct?
• Is all copy on the sheet?
• Are display and headline type the accurate font, set, and spelling?
• Check all registration.
• Check trapping.
• Study the pictures, type, and screens to make sure they are consistent.
• Look for flaws and imperfections: broken type, pinholes, mottling, hickeys, or ghosting.
• Fold the sheet for correct backups, gutters, and tick-marks (cuts, scores, etc.). Confirm photos are aligned.
• Take a few press sheets, fold into a dummy, and check for stitch, creep, and alignment.
• Weigh the piece if it is to be mailed.

Press Sheet Checklist

What to look for when reviewing a press sheet:

• Number the press sheets as you receive them.
• Verify the paper stock is what you requested in weight and color.
• Check for missing elements and copy changes.
• Check registration of elements.
• Examine four-color images for major color deviations.
• Confirm that color breaks are correct.
• Check type carefully for broken letters and imperfections.
• Examine sheets for hickeys, blemishes, and anything unusual.
• Check color match consistency on elements that cross over from page to page. Fold or cut the press sheet across the image and compare it with the other crossover page. If you radically alter the color on one page, you may not be able to replicate it on the crossover page.
• Remember that color is a matter of personal taste, and each individual’s perception of color is subjective.
• Assume nothing! Read the proofs against your supplied laser visuals to aid the review.
• Check headlines, captions, and body text for type reflow throughout. Make sure italics, bolds, etc. are used where you wanted them.
• Check for character integrity, broken letters, and sharpness of type.
• Check each photo and illustration for proper position, cropping, and scaling.
• Compare illustrations on the proof to originals supplied for color fidelity.
• Check each element for proper color treatment.
• Check each color image and screen build for internal register.
• Verify that bleeds extend beyond the trim marks.
• Verify that finishing elements such as foil stamping, die-cutting, embossing, drilling, and perforations are properly indicated.
• Confirm that all corrections from previous proofs have been made, if applicable.