Getting Started with Proofed
Install the app, sync your first orders, upload a proof, and send it to a customer for approval.
This guide walks you through installing Proofed and completing your first proof approval — from order sync to customer sign-off.
Step 1: Install the App#
Install Proofed from the Shopify App Store. Once installed, the app opens in your Shopify admin as an embedded app.
Step 2: Sync Your Orders#
New Shopify orders are synced automatically via webhook. To pull in existing orders, click the Sync button on the dashboard.
Each synced order shows:
- Order number, customer name, and email
- Line items with product title, quantity, and variant details
- Any custom attributes the customer provided (personalisation text, colour choices, etc.)
Step 3: Upload Your First Proof#
Open an order from the dashboard and you have two options:
Direct Upload#
Upload proof images (PNG, JPG, or PDF) directly from the order detail page. You can bulk-upload across multiple line items.
Built-In Design Editor#
Click Design/Edit proof to open the interactive canvas editor. You can:
- Upload a new file (PDF, SVG, AI, PNG, JPG — vectors auto-convert to PNG at 300 DPI)
- Use an image already attached to the line item (e.g. customer-uploaded artwork)
- Paste an external image URL
The editor generates three production-ready files simultaneously: a proof PNG, a cut PDF, and a cropped PDF.
If a line item doesn't need a proof (e.g. a plain accessory), click Skip to exclude it from the customer's review.
Step 4: Review and Send#
Uploading a proof does not automatically notify the customer. This is intentional — it gives you a chance to review everything first.
When you're ready, click Send Proofs to Customer. The customer receives an email with a secure link to the approval portal.
You can optionally attach a note using a saved message template, or type a custom message.
Step 5: Customer Reviews#
The customer opens the portal link — no login required. They can:
- View each proof with a full-screen lightbox
- See product details and any designer notes
- Click Approve or Request Revision (with comments)
You're notified immediately by email when they respond.
Step 6: Fulfil the Order#
Once approved, download the production-ready files from the order detail page:
- Proof PNG — screen-optimised preview
- Cut PDF — VersaWorks-compatible with CutContour vector outline
- Cropped PDF — artwork cropped to the cut shape, without the cut line
The order's Shopify tags update automatically to reflect the approved status.
What's Next?#
- Design Editor & Cut File Generator — learn about shapes, bleed, output formats
- Customer Approval Portal — what your customers see
- Plans & Billing — plan tiers, usage limits, and overages
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