Packaging artwork guide

How artwork works with us

1. Step 1

   Send what you have

   A logo, a finished design or just an idea. You don't need print-ready files to request a quote.

2. Step 2

   We make your dieline

   A dieline is the flat, unfolded template of your packaging, showing where it is cut, folded and sealed. Ours are free.

3. Step 3

   You approve a proof

   We place your artwork on the dieline and send a proof so you see exactly what will be printed. We revise it until you're happy.

4. Step 4

   Production starts

   Nothing is printed until you approve the proof. Typical turnaround is 10–14 days from approved proof to delivery.

Files we accept

Vector files (AI, PDF, EPS, SVG) print sharpest. Photos and textures should be high resolution. You can attach files up to 25 MB to your quote request.

• AI
• PDF
• PSD
• EPS
• SVG
• High-resolution PNG or JPG

Print terms in plain words

Bleed

Extra background beyond the cut line, so no white edge shows if the cut is slightly off.

Safe zone

The area well inside the cut line. Keep text and logos here so nothing important is trimmed or lost in a seal or fold.

CMYK

The four ink colours used in printing. Screen colours (RGB) can print differently, so set your file up in CMYK.

Pantone

Named spot colours used to match a brand colour exactly. List your main ones so we can match them.

Outlined text

Text converted to shapes, so the printer doesn't need your fonts and nothing changes.

Artwork checklist

If you're setting up your own file on one of our dielines, check that you have:

• Extend the background to the bleed line
• Keep all text inside the safe zone
• Put specialty effects (window, spot UV, foil) on their own layers in the template's spot colours
• Save the file in CMYK and list your main Pantone colours
• Outline all text and embed all images
• Name the file with your company, product and bag size
• Send it as an editable PDF

Dielines

Mylar bag dielines in 3.5 g, 7 g, 14 g and 28 g are free to download from the mylar bag size guide. For every other product, ask for a dieline with your quote and we'll send one sized to your order. You can also try your design on a template on our design page.