Prepress vs design
Design defines how the catalog looks and communicates. Prepress verifies that the approved layout can be reproduced by the selected printing process. It is a distinct technical phase with clear inputs, checks, corrections, and output files.
What the technical audit covers
We compare the document with the printer specification: final trim size, bleed, safe zones, binding allowance, page count, color profile, PDF/X version, marks, and any special production instructions. Images are checked for effective resolution and color space; fonts and transparency are verified; overprint, rich black, hairlines, and small reversed text are reviewed for production risk.
The cover receives additional attention because spine width, folds, flaps, and finishing layers depend on the physical specification. For saddle-stitched publications, creep and page sequence may need coordination with the printer. For perfect binding, important content must remain clear of the glue and inner margins.
Correction and printer handoff
When editable source files are available, we correct the layout and links before creating the final package. If only a PDF is supplied, we explain which issues can be repaired safely and which require the original document. The goal is not to hide warnings but to give the printer a predictable, approved file.
The final handoff can include the print PDF, a packaged source folder where agreed, special-color or finishing separations, and a short note describing profiles and export settings. If the print shop returns a RIP warning or proof comment, we can review it and prepare a corrected revision.
