Nadia Petrov
Nadia Petrov Customer Education Writer at 4OVER4.COM
Question

What is the difference between a proof and print-ready files?

Answer

A proof and a print-ready file serve two different purposes. A proof is a downsized file your graphic designer sends so you can review the design easily on screen. A print-ready file is the final artwork, prepared to the specs required to go to press. 4OVER4 requires print-ready files to proceed with production.

ProofPrint-ready file
Downsized for quick, easy reviewFinal file used to produce the job
For checking design, text, and layoutMust meet full production requirements below

A print-ready file needs to be:

  • Set in CMYK color mode
  • Built with the correct bleed
  • High resolution
  • The correct final size
  • For items with dies, such as custom shapes, include a vector-format die line

If you supply files that are not print-ready, resulting quality issues or improper cuts cannot be reprinted or refunded, so it is worth getting the file right up front.

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