progressive proofs (progs)

Set of proofs made during the four-color printing process; also called color proofs. Typically, there are seven different impressions in a set of progressive proofs: one for each color alone and then the combinations as succeeding colors are added. The final proof will show the finished color reproduction. An example of a progressive sequence follows: (1) impression of the red plate; (2) impression of the yellow plate; (3) impression of the yellow plate on the red plate; (4) impression of the blue plate; (5) impression of the blue plate on the yellow and red plate; (6) impression of the black plate; (7) impression of the black plate on the yellow, red, and blue plate. The progs serve as a guide and are used by the printer to match up inks in the four-color printing process. They also permit the customer to make any changes or corrections the need for which may become apparent as a result of the process.