Press Check Checklist

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Press checks can be intimidating with someone standing over your shoulder waiting for the final approval to print. While the main purpose of a press check is usually to make sure that the color on press comes as close as possible to the color proof, there are other areas that need to be reviewed.

Following the checklist below can ensure nothing is missed and your print project is perfect.

· The first thing to check is that the correct paper stock is being used. Check the color, weight and texture to make sure it is the stock that was ordered.

· Check that the content is consistent with the proof. Look for missing elements.

· Fold down the press sheet or cut out trimmed pages and check for correct back-ups. If the job included crossovers make sure these are consistent in quality, density and alignment.

· Check the overall color balance and flesh tones (which can be tricky) and that the colors of corporate logos are correct.

· Check registration including sharpness, color overlapping, edges of images and screened type.

· Look for physical defects including broken type, odd scratches, hickeys (small white circles from stray spots), or ghosting.

· Number the pages as you receive them and check page count for books.

What not to look for during a press check are typos or other layout issues. These should have been taken care of during the proof-reading phase and significant expense can be occurred if a job needs to be re-plated. Significant expense and impact to delivery can result from major color changes as well. There is a limit to what the pressman can do on press.

When in doubt, though, ask the pressman questions. This is his area of expertise and he wants the project to look good just as much as you do.