· AutomatePrint
Spot colors and separations: what to check before approving print
Use separation views to find unexpected plates, missing finishing inks and overprint problems before output.
A composite preview shows how artwork looks together. A separation view helps explain what each plate or ink contributes. Both views matter when a PDF contains spot colors, white ink, varnish or other finishing elements.
Count the expected inks first
Write down the intended process and spot inks from the job specification. Then compare that list with the PDF. Two names that look similar may represent separate spot plates; a cut line may also appear as an ink even though it should not print.
Do not merge or convert inks simply to make the list shorter. Confirm the intended output with production, particularly when a name identifies a finishing operation.
Inspect one separation at a time
Turn off unrelated inks and inspect the contribution of each remaining plate. Check small text, logos, fine lines and areas where white or varnish should appear. A finishing layer that is visible in the design application may still be absent or incorrectly defined in the delivered PDF.
Next, restore the composite view and inspect overlaps. Overprint and knockout behavior can change the result where objects meet. White objects set to overprint deserve particular attention because the intended white appearance may not survive output.
Keep technical lines separate from artwork
Cut, crease and fold lines describe production geometry. Their presence is useful, but their purpose must be clear. Check how those lines are classified before exporting the print and cutting files.
AutomatePrint's Advanced proof and prepress inspection tools let the team examine print separations alongside the artwork. Preflight adds checks for unexpected color conditions and ink coverage, using the selected profile.
Make approval instructions specific
Ask the customer to review appearance and content, while the production team checks plates and technical details. Those responsibilities can overlap, but they should not be assumed. Record any changes and approve the version that will actually move forward.
Read the separations guide for inspecting individual inks in AutomatePrint.