Short answer: Compare the exact proof version with the confirmed garment and artwork brief. Check wording, dates, names, dimensions, locations and which garments use each variant. Resolve open questions and record one authorized approver and date. A screen proof communicates layout; it is not a physical colour-match guarantee.
Part of Artwork, production and ordering. Planning an order? Explore Custom Apparel in Calgary.
Check six parts of the proof
| Part | Compare against | Do not approve until |
|---|---|---|
| Version | The latest requested artwork revision | The file or proof identifier is unambiguous |
| Wording | Confirmed names, dates, spelling and approved logos | Every content owner has resolved their part |
| Garment | Exact style, colour and fit ranges | The proof represents the intended garments |
| Dimensions | Proposed physical artwork width and height, with units | The measurements are stated and understood |
| Locations | Each front, back or other approved location | Position references and construction questions are resolved |
| Assignments | The current quantity and artwork-variant record | Each garment row has the correct design |
Record the exact proof, unresolved items, requested corrections and final approver in an editable checklist.
Download the proof-approval checklist (Markdown)No form or email required.
Read the dimensions, not only the picture
A generic garment mockup may not show the exact scale on every size. Confirm the written dimensions and position references, especially when a hood, pocket or smaller garment changes the usable area. Ask about anything the proof leaves unspecified.
The STAHLS artwork specification distinguishes screen appearance from its printed output and identifies product-specific artwork limits. Do not infer an exact physical colour match from a monitor preview. If colour expectations are critical, discuss how they will be assessed before approval.
Illustrative example: the logo is right, the date is old
A correction requires a new version
Illustrative example · Not a documented customer order
A coordinator sees the correct logo on a proof but notices the previous event date. They list the date correction and withhold final approval. The revised proof receives a new version identifier.
The coordinator then checks the complete revised proof—logo, date, names, dimensions, garment and locations—rather than looking only at the corrected date. Approval names that new version so an earlier image in the conversation cannot be mistaken for the accepted file.
Keep an editable artwork master for revisions. Adobe's outline-text explanation notes that converted text becomes paths. Correcting the editable source is different from typing a note over a preview image.
Make the approval traceable
- Name one person authorized to approve the order.
- List unresolved questions separately and clear them before final approval.
- Record the proof version, approval date and approver.
- Keep the approved garment breakdown with the proof.
- Treat a later change as a new request and ask whether it can be accommodated.
- Retain the approved record for any future reorder.
Use this checklist when working through an ANCO custom-apparel order. It prepares a clear decision; it does not define a cancellation, revision or production policy.
If the original file is still uncertain, return to artwork file preparation. Reconcile the final garment assignments with the group-size CSV worksheet before signing off.
Sources and scope
Manufacturer examples explain specific products and do not confirm ANCO stock, equipment or suppliers. ANCO reviews the proposed garment, artwork and order before confirming suitability.