Learn More – Design Proofs

Proof your design before going to press. A design proof is a preliminary version or mock-up of a design project created to review and approve before final production. It serves as a visual and functional representation of the finished product's appearance, ensuring all elements meet the client's expectations and project requirements.

Key Components of a Design Proof

• Visual Layout: Displays the design elements such as graphics, text, colors, and spacing.
• Color Accuracy: If applicable, the proof reflects color choices, often using specific color profiles (like CMYK for print) to ensure consistency.
• Dimensions and Formatting: Shows the exact size, shape, and layout of the final product.
• Content Accuracy: Ensures all text, logos, and images are correctly placed and free from errors.
• Bleed and Margins: For print materials, it may include trim lines, bleed areas, and safe zones.

Accurate printed proofs give you the best representation of what your design will really look like on press. The most common elements that appear different between what's on screen and what's on paper are:

• Gradients
• Transparency Effects
• Line Weight
• Textures and Patterns
• Color Accuracy
• Font Legibility 

We proof all kinds of print projects.

Proofing is the best way to make sure you or your customer knows what to expect. The most common print jobs we proof are:

• Publication & Catalog Design
• Photographic Retouching
• Advertising & Collateral Design
• New Branding Concepts
• Poster Design
• Color Selection Tests

Find out what your color really looks like.

We all know color can vary greatly from device to device. Even if you’ve taken the time to calibrate and profile every device, a verified proof is always the surest way to preview color before your job is actually printed. Have confidence in your color before going to press. 

Having color choices is essential.

Not all proofs are the same. And not all clients have the same needs. That's where we can help. At ExpressProof we offer several different proofing options and color specifications for your printing needs. Whether you need a SWOP proof for a magazine or a SNAP proof for newspaper, we've got you covered.

Control your color with contract proofs.

No one likes to guess on color. Sending an ExpressProof verified proof as a contract proof to your printer helps everyone know what to expect. It gives your printer a realistic expectation and a target to run to.

A contract proof is a high-quality, color-accurate printed proof that serves as a legally binding agreement between a client and a printer, confirming how the final printed product should appear. It is used primarily in the printing industry to ensure that the design, colors, and overall appearance meet the client’s expectations before mass production begins.

Key Features of a Contract Proof

• Color Accuracy: The most critical feature. Contract proofs are created using calibrated proofing devices to match industry standards like GRACoL or SWOP.
• Final Design Representation: It reflects the exact design, layout, and content as it will appear in the final printed product.
• Legally Binding: Once approved, the contract proof becomes a reference for quality control and a legal agreement on the final output.
• Printed on Specialized Media: Contract proofs are often produced on high-quality proofing paper with accurate ICC profiles for precise color reproduction.

Applications of Contract Proofs

• Advertising Materials: Brochures, flyers, and posters.
• Packaging: Product boxes, labels, and wrappers.
• Magazines and Publications: Ensuring accurate color representation for images and text.
• Corporate Branding: Business cards, letterheads, and marketing collateral.

Difference Between Contract Proof and Other Proofs:

Feature	Contract Proof	Soft Proof (Digital)	Press Proof
Purpose	Legally binding, final quality check	Quick digital preview	Printed on actual press setup
Color Accuracy	High, calibrated to print standards	Lower, screen-dependent	High, real print output
Cost	Moderate to high	Low	Very High
Use Case	Final approval before mass printing	Initial design approval	Critical for extremely large jobs

Our proofs are accepted as contract proofs at most print facilities across the U.S., so go ahead — print with confidence!

Proof spot colors. 

Would you like a better idea of what your spot colors will look like before going to press? 93% of the Pantone® library gamma is covered with our GMG ColorProof Certified SWOP proofing system. Just about every color except for metallics and neons. So feel free to show your clients what brilliant color choice is all about. 

Want more options? We have them.

Sure, we’re ridiculously awesome at color proofing. But we can be spectacular at the little stuff, too. Check out some of our added benefits:

• Include CD or DVD
• Proof Verification
• Rush Delivery
• Save Multiple Addresses