Proof Approval
The Reason we ask for approval is because we tend to use the approval to understand If you understand what you have orderdered, then feel free to make any edits once we sent you mock ups, with this new website, you give us an approval on what you want and we do the effort of checking how close we got to what you were looking for!
A proof is your opportunity to catch typos, incorrect placement, wrong colors or graphics issues before printing. Screen printing, embroidery, DTG, etc., all have setup costs; catching errors early saves time and money.
Ensures Alignment with Your Brand & Vision
Logo size, artwork placement (chest, sleeve, back, etc.), and font/image resolution all matter. Proofs clarify these so things aren’t misaligned or poorly scaled.
Builds Trust and Clear Communication
You see exactly what we see. If anything seems off when you review the proof, you can request changes, so there are no surprises, we are more than happy to make changes.
It helps both sides (you and our production team) have a shared understanding of what will be made. This reduces miscommunication.
How Merchy’s Handles Approvals!
Types of Proofs We Provide
Soft Proof (Digital Proof):
A digital mock-up (usually PDF) showing how your design will look on the apparel. It shows things like layout, text, logo, approximate colors. We always put a size on the top of the image to show you the real life size of the design, sometimes the size is only a reference, and might actually look bigger or smaller on the pocket but the size will look the same.
Hard Proof (Sow-Ons):
Talk about sow ons
What’s Included in Our Proofs
When you get a proof, you’ll see:
Artwork in place (logo/design) on the specific style (T-shirt, hoodie, hat, etc.) in the exact size it will be printed.
Color specs or thread colors, especially for embroidery.
A reminder that once you approve, production begins and changes may be limited.
The Approval Process
You submit your design and select style, sizes, colors, placement.
Our design/prepress team creates a proof (soft or hard, depending on your needs).
We send the proof to you for review.
You approve it, or you request changes.
If changes are needed, we update and send a revised proof.
Once you finally approve, we begin production.
This will repeat until approval!
What Happens if Changes are Needed
Minor changes (typos, slight placement adjustments, color shifts) are typically included in the proof revision free of additional setup, provided they’re within reason and submitted promptly.
Major changes (new artwork, entirely different design, switching printing method) might require additional design/setup fees.
Time delays: changes extend the timeline; so we encourage reviewing proofs thoroughly and responding in a timely manner.
What You Should Check in Your Proof
Before approving, make sure to:
Check spelling, grammar, numbers.
Check design placement: is it centered, aligned, scaled the way you intended?
Review colors: are thread / ink colors matching your brand or sample?
View on the correct garment style, color, and sizing. Design might contrast differently depending on fabric color.
Examine logo/image resolution: nothing should look pixelated or blurry.
For embroidery: ensure fine detail is appropriate for stitching; small text or thin lines may need simplification.
Confirm you’re happy with printing method: screen printing, DTG, or embroidery has different textures/finish.
Best Practices for Smooth Proof Approval
Provide high-quality artwork (.svg, .ai.).
Be very clear about your expectations: exact colors (Pantone or thread codes), placement, sizes.
Plan ahead: allow time for proofs and revisions, especially for large or complex orders.
Get feedback from others (team, brand stakeholders) before approval. A fresh set of eyes catches overlooked details.
Approve quickly if everything is correct, so production isn’t delayed.
FAQs
Question | Answer |
Q: Do I have to approve a proof before production starts? | Yes. We won’t begin printing until you’ve given proof approval. This ensures what we print is exactly what you want. |
Q: What happens if I see a mistake after I approve the proof? | After approval, we consider the details final. While we’ll do our best to accommodate urgent corrections, changes after approval may not be possible. |
Q: Is there a charge for proof revisions? | Minor corrections (typos, placement tweaks) are usually free of charge if submitted in a timely manner. Major revisions (new artwork) may require additional fees. |
Q: Can I get a physical proof if I only received a digital one? | Yes—if your order requires very precise color matching, special materials, or you prefer seeing a sample, we can arrange a physical proof. It may take extra time and sometimes an extra cost. |
Q: How long do I have to approve my proof? | We’ll specify a deadline when we send your proof. Delayed approval may push out your delivery date, especially for large or custom orders. |
Merchy’s proof approval process is all about making sure your custom apparel printing—including screen printing, embroidery, and other methods—turns out just right. If you have questions at any point, or want to ensure your proof covers something specific (thread color, finishing, etc.), we’re here to help!
