The Living Name · Field notes

How to check a personalized name-art proof

A proof should show the exact name that will appear in the delivered artwork. Start by comparing it with a written spelling supplied by the person choosing the name. Read the proof slowly, one character at a time, before looking at the overall design.

Check the actual letters

• Compare every letter in order, including repeated letters.
• Check capitalization, accents, apostrophes and hyphens.
• Confirm whether the artwork uses one given name or multiple names.
• Look closely at decorative curls that could resemble a different letter.

A sample with a different name is an art-direction reference, not your spelling proof. A text field that looks correct also does not prove that the final exported artwork contains the same text.

Check spacing at two sizes

Read the image at a small size, then enlarge it. At a small size, letters should remain recognizable. At a larger size, inspect whether flourishes overlap an adjacent letter or whether a long name looks compressed. If a detail makes you hesitate, ask about it before approving.

Confirm which version you approved

Save the final proof and the approval message together. If the name, capitalization or layout changes, request a new proof. Approval of an earlier version should not silently carry over to a changed design.

Check the file and the offer

Confirm the promised print size, included file types and whether you are receiving a download, a print or both. Make sure any image of a frame is explained. If you receive a digital file, open it before sending it to a print service; compare its visible name with your approved proof.

Our planned process

The Living Name’s personalized production process is still being developed. We intend to show an exact-spelling proof before delivery, but that workflow is not available in the current reference gallery. Read what is planned and view the artwork examples.