Proofs & Approvals
Every custom order gets a digital proof, and nothing prints until you approve it. Most proofs arrive within 24 to 48 hours and include 2 free revision rounds. Here is how the review and approval process works, from upload all the way to production.
Proofs & Approvals
How the proof review and approval workflow works.
What is a proof?
A proof is a digital preview showing exactly how your product will look before we print it. It includes your uploaded artwork, colors, layout, and final dimensions. We don't print until you approve it!
Do all orders require proof approval?
Yes! All custom-printed orders require your approval before production, so you see it before we print it. Blank products (no printing) don't require proofs.
How long does it take to receive my proof?
Your first proof comes the same day when you order by 11am Pacific, and the next business day after that. You'll get an email the moment it is ready to review.
Where do I review and approve my proof?
Log into your dashboard and go to Projects, then open the project. You'll see the proof with buttons to Approve or Request Changes, and you can drop a pin on the exact spot you want changed. Proofs are also emailed to you.
What should I look for when reviewing a proof?
Check: 1) Spelling and grammar, 2) Colors look correct, 3) Logo/images are clear, 4) Layout and alignment, 5) Contact info is accurate, 6) Nothing is cut off.
Can I request changes to my proof?
Yes! Click "Request Changes" and describe what needs fixing. We'll make revisions and send a new proof. Changes are included until it is right. If the job turns into a different job, we say so and quote the extra before doing it.
How many revisions am I allowed?
As many as it takes. We keep going until it is right, and we do not count rounds. If the job changes into a different job along the way, we say so and quote the extra first.
What happens after I approve the proof?
Your order moves to production immediately! We'll print/produce exactly what you approved. You'll receive tracking info once it ships. Approval is final, no changes after this point.
Can I cancel my order before approving the proof?
Yes, for a full refund! Before proof approval, you can cancel anytime. After approval, the order is in production and cancellation isn't possible.
What if I don't respond to my proof?
We'll send reminder emails. If we don't hear from you after 7 days, the proof will auto-approve and move to production. Respond promptly to avoid auto-approval!
Will the colors on my screen match the printed colors?
Close, but not exact. Every screen displays colors differently. Printed colors (CMYK) have a narrower range than screens (RGB). If exact color matters, order a small quantity first and check it in your hand before the big run.
Can someone else on my team approve the proof?
Whoever has the account login can review and approve proofs, so plenty of teams share one login for exactly this. Separate team member logins with their own permissions are on our roadmap.
What if I approve the proof by mistake?
Contact us immediately! If production hasn't started, we can revert the approval. Once production begins (usually within hours), we can't stop it. Time is critical!
Can I download my proof for team review?
Yes! Click "Download Proof" on the review page. You'll get a high-res PDF. Share it with your team, clients, or anyone who needs to review before approval.
How do I request specific changes to my proof?
Click "Request Changes" and be specific: "Change phone number to 555-1234" or "Make logo 20% larger." Include screenshots with markups if helpful. Clear instructions = faster revisions!
Can I see multiple proof options before choosing?
Yes, with design services! Request "multiple concepts" when ordering. We'll create 2 to 3 design options for you to choose from. LiveDesign customers see options in real-time during the session.
What if my proof looks different than my uploaded file?
This may be due to: 1) RGB to CMYK color conversion, 2) Font substitution (didn't outline fonts), 3) Missing bleed. Request changes and we'll fix it!
Can I approve part of my order and change other parts?
Yes! If your order has multiple items (front/back, multiple designs), you can approve some and request changes to others. We'll produce approved items first.
How long do I have to review and approve my proof?
7 days before auto-approval. We recommend reviewing within 24 to 48 hours to keep your project on schedule. Production time doesn't start until you approve.
What if I need more time to review?
Contact us! We can extend the review period. Just let us know you need more time before the 7-day deadline. Your order will stay on hold until you're ready.
Can I see a proof before placing my order?
Not typically. Proofs are created after ordering. However, you can request a mockup or use LiveDesign to see designs before committing to an order.
What's the difference between a proof and a mockup?
Proof: Actual print-ready file showing exactly what will be printed. Mockup: Visual representation (often 3D) showing the product in use. Proofs are for approval; mockups are for visualization.
Do you send proofs for reorders?
If reordering the exact same design with no changes, proofs aren't required (but available on request). If you've made ANY changes, you'll receive a new proof to approve.
Can I request a video walkthrough of my proof?
Yes! For complex projects, request a proof review call. Our team will walk you through the proof via video chat, answer questions, and document any changes needed.
What if I find an error after approving?
If it's our error: We'll reprint free. If you approved an error in the proof: Unfortunately, you're responsible. This is why we urge careful review before approval!
Can I approve via email instead of logging in?
Yes! Reply to the proof notification email with "APPROVED" to approve. For changes, reply with your revision requests. Dashboard approval is preferred for tracking purposes.
Do you keep a record of approved proofs?
Yes, forever! All approved proofs are stored in your account under Order History. Download them anytime for your records or to reference for future reorders.
What if I need to compare my proof to previous versions?
All proof revisions are saved with version numbers (v1, v2, v3). You can view and download all previous versions from your order page to compare changes.
Can I request a proof for products I haven't ordered yet?
Use LiveDesign or request a mockup! These services let you see designs before committing to an order. Standard proofs are only available after placing an order.
What format are proofs provided in?
Proofs are displayed as high-resolution images (PNG/JPG) in your dashboard and downloadable as PDF. This ensures you can view them on any device without special software.
Can I get a proof that shows bleed and trim marks?
Yes! Request a "print-ready proof with marks" when ordering. This shows the full bleed area, trim lines, and safe zones, helpful if you want to see the technical layout.
What's your proof accuracy guarantee?
What you see is what you get! If the printed product doesn't match your approved proof (and it's our error), we'll reprint for free or issue a full refund.
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