Short answer: A digital proof is your last chance to fix errors before production locks. Check spelling, logo scale, colours (PMS codes noted), product colour, and placement (approval usually means no free changes afterward.
Australian promotional suppliers send proofs as PDF or email mock-ups showing your artwork on product photography or templates). Treat approval seriously: “looks fine on my phone” has caused thousands of misprinted units.
Proof checklist
- Company name. URL, phone, tagline spelled correctly
- Logo proportions not stretched or squashed
- Logo size within print area, not illegibly small on pens
- PMS or colour callouts match brand sheet
- Product colour matches what you ordered (navy vs black)
- Decoration location (left chest, wrap seam, etc.)
- Quantity. SKU, and delivery address on order confirmation match proof package
Colour expectations
Screen mock-ups are not contractually exact colour matches (lighting and monitors vary). PMS matching on physical products depends on substrate (fabric vs metal vs plastic). For critical brand launches, order a pre-production sample.
Remote team sign-off
Use a single authorised approver after marketing, legal, and leadership review) multiple conflicting approvals delay production. Document approval email with timestamp; suppliers rely on it for remake disputes.
After approval
Production starts. Changes may incur remake fees or full re-run cost. If logo files change mid-order, stop production immediately (do not assume factory will notice.
Frequently asked questions
How many proof rounds are included?
Often one–two revisions; excessive changes may be billable) confirm upfront.
Proof shows wrong thread colour for embroidery?
Request thread chart match to PMS before approving, embroidery thread libraries differ from print inks.