The Stackhouse 12-Point Inspection Framework

Short Summary

This article explains the 12 checks The Stackhouse uses to review files, print output, finishing, packaging, and order accuracy before a print order ships.

Quick Answer

The Stackhouse 12-Point Inspection Framework is our production checklist for confirming that an order is printable, produced on the correct material, finished cleanly, protected for transit, and matched to the order details before shipment.

How the Framework Is Organized

The framework is grouped into three production phases: file and pre-print verification, print and surface inspection, and finishing, packaging, and final review.

Some checks are supported by upload tools and production scripts. Final quality decisions are still made by trained print specialists who physically review the work before it ships.

The 12 Inspection Points

File and Pre-Print Verification

1. File resolution and print size: We check whether the submitted file has enough usable detail for the selected print size.
2. Color profile and color space: We review whether the file is compatible with our color-managed print workflow.
3. Crop, border, and orientation: We confirm the selected crop, border, and orientation match the order setup.
4. Media selection: We verify that the selected paper, canvas, mounted, or packaged print option matches the order.

Print and Surface Inspection

5. Color accuracy and tonal balance: We review color, neutrals, contrast, and tonal transitions for the selected product type.
6. Ink density and consistency: We check for uneven ink laydown, banding, streaks, or other production artifacts.
7. Surface integrity: We inspect for scuffs, marks, head strikes, handling damage, or surface defects.
8. Edge and border precision: We check edges, borders, bleed, and image placement before the order moves forward.

Finishing, Packaging, and Final Review

9. Final size and squareness: We confirm the finished dimensions and alignment are appropriate for the order.
10. Finish or coating review: When a product includes coating, canvas finishing, mounting, or other finishing work, we review the result before packing.
11. Packaging and protection: We choose packaging intended to protect the product type during transit.
12. Order accuracy and final approval: We confirm the image, size, media, quantity, and order details before the package leaves The Stackhouse.

What Happens If Something Fails Inspection?

If a print does not meet our standards during production, it is corrected, reprinted, or escalated before shipment. Orders are not intentionally shipped when a visible production issue has already been caught during inspection.

What This Framework Does Not Replace

• It does not replace your responsibility to choose the correct file, size, crop, border, media, quantity, and shipping address before checkout.
• It does not guarantee an exact match to an uncalibrated monitor or to every lighting condition where the print may be viewed.
• It does not include automatic file editing, retouching, typo correction, or artwork repair unless we have confirmed that separately.
• It does not turn preference changes after printing into covered free reprints.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every print get reviewed by a person?

Automation helps with consistency, but final quality review is human-led. A print specialist reviews key production, finishing, and order details before shipment.

Does the framework apply to every product?

Yes. The core framework applies to giclee prints, photo prints, canvas and gallery wraps, mounted prints, packaged prints, and fulfillment orders. Some products may have additional product-specific checks.

Can I ask for a file review before ordering?

Yes. If you are unsure about resolution, crop, color, or material choice, contact support before ordering so we can help you choose the best path.

Related Articles

• Quality Assurance at the Stackhouse
• The Stackhouse Promise
• What to Look for in a High-Quality Print
• How to Check Your Image Resolution
• Understanding ICC Profiles and Print Color Expectations

Need More Help?

If you have a quality question before ordering, submit a Help Center request with the product type, target size, file details, deadline, and any specific color or finishing concerns.

If your order has already arrived and you need us to review a possible production defect or Stackhouse-applied order issue, submit a reprint request within 14 days of delivery with your order number, photos, and a short description of the issue. Shipping damage should be reported within 7 days of delivery with packaging photos.