Strike-off (Print Approval Sample)

A strike-off is the printed fabric sample that bridges design intent and production reality. Before committing to bulk yardage, buyers need to see exactly how their artwork will render on the target fabric—the precise colors, the print sharpness, the pattern registration. The strike-off provides that proof, serving as both approval checkpoint and production reference standard.

The strike-off process begins when the buyer provides design files and color references, typically Pantone numbers or physical swatches. The mill prepares printing screens or digital files and develops color formulas to match the targets. A sample length gets printed on the actual production fabric—this matters because the same ink formulation can look different on polyester versus cotton, or on satin versus twill.

Different printing methods produce different types of strike-offs. Digital printing offers the fastest turnaround, typically 3-5 days, since no screens need preparation. Rotary screen printing strike-offs take longer, usually 7-14 days including screen engraving time, but represent exactly what bulk production will deliver. Lab-scale strike-offs work for initial color matching before investing in production tooling.

When evaluating a strike-off, buyers should examine color accuracy against their references under proper lighting conditions (D65 daylight simulation is the industry standard). Print sharpness and detail reproduction matter, especially for fine lines or small text. Pattern alignment across the fabric width and repeat registration between colors indicate production capability. The hand feel after printing reveals whether the ink system affects the fabric's drape or softness.

Industry practice typically allows 1-3 strike-off rounds before approval, with each revision potentially incurring additional charges. Written approval—whether by email confirmation or signed sample—establishes the production standard. Both parties should retain approved strike-offs as reference for quality control during bulk production.

Buyers should specify acceptable color tolerance upfront, often expressed as Delta E values. Requesting strike-offs on the actual production fabric rather than a substitute ensures the approval reflects real production conditions.