File Format
AI, editable PDF or EPS
Resource centre
Artwork Guidelines
for Custom Packaging
Everything you need to prepare print-ready artwork that helps us deliver perfect packaging, every time.
Not sure whether your artwork is print-ready? Send what you have. We’ll check it free and advise what happens next.
Free artwork checkbefore production
Expert supportat every step
Production startsafter your approval
Get the essentials right
Quick-Start Artwork Checklist
Colour Mode
CMYK, not RGB
Resolution
300 dpi at final size
Bleed
Use the dieline value
Fonts
Outline or embed all fonts
Dieline
Use the approved template
Start where you are
Choose Your Design Route
03
Download Your Packaging Template
Start with the correct dieline
A packaging dieline is the flat technical drawing used to position artwork before a box is printed, cut, creased and assembled.
The correct template depends on the box style, dimensions, material and construction. Never resize an existing dieline to fit another product; panels, flaps and tolerances must be recalculated.
04
How to Set Up Your Dieline
Keep every production element on a clearly named layer. Do not delete, move, redraw or flatten structural elements unless agreed with our packaging team.
- Cut lineFinal cutting edge
- Crease lineFold or score area
- Bleed areaArtwork extends past trim
- Safe areaKeep critical content inside
- Glue areaNo printing unless agreed
- Non-printing marksProduction reference only
Important: Use the bleed measurement supplied on your approved dieline—never estimate it.
05
File Format Requirements
Editable vector artwork gives us the greatest control when preparing files for packaging production.
Preferred Formats
- Adobe Illustrator (.AI)
- Editable PDF (.PDF)
- EPS with fonts outlined
Supporting Files
- PSD or TIFF (300 dpi)
- JPEG or PNG (high resolution)
- Linked assets and brand guidelines
Avoid as Final Artwork
- Word or PowerPoint files
- Low-resolution web graphics
- Screenshots or flattened designs
Only have one of these reference files? Send it to us—our team can advise on the best next step.
06
Colours, Images & Print Quality
Colour Mode
CMYK only. RGB colours can shift in print.
Pantone Colours
Specify exact references for brand-critical colours.
Rich Black
Fine text and large areas may need different builds.
Image Resolution
300 dpi at the final printed size.
Linked Images
Embed images or include every linked asset.
Transparency
Keep editable originals for effects and gradients.
Colour Variation
Digital proofs confirm content—not exact colour.
07
Fonts, Logos & Fine Details
Fonts
Outline or include permitted font files.
Logos
Use vector AI, EPS or PDF wherever possible.
Font Size
Ask us to check very small or reversed type.
Fine Lines
Minimum weight varies by finish and process.
Barcodes
Keep proportionate, clear and away from folds.
QR Codes
Allow clear space and test at final print size.
08
Artwork Requirements by Print Method
Production method changes how artwork must be prepared. Open a method for the key requirement.
Digital Printing
Supply high-resolution artwork in the requested colour space. Digital is well suited to detailed graphics, variable designs and flexible quantities.
Lithographic Printing
Correct colour separation, image resolution and treatment of spot colours are particularly important for high-quality reproduction.
Flexographic Printing
Fine lines, reversed text, screens and trapping may need adapting to the material and press specification.
Foil
Create foil elements as named vector artwork on a separate layer. Never represent production foil as an ordinary CMYK colour.
Embossing & Debossing
Supply separate vector elements. Fine detail and proximity to folds may need adjustment for the board and tooling.
Spot UV
Identify Spot UV on a separate layer and allow for registration tolerances around fine text and borders.
White Ink
Set white ink as a clearly named spot colour or separate layer when printing on kraft, coloured or transparent materials.
09
Preflight & Approval Process
Submit Artwork
Send your latest files and quote details.
Technical Check
We verify the dieline, bleed and image setup.
Digital Proof
You receive a positioned proof to review.
Your Approval
Check copy, colours, codes and orientation.
Production
Manufacturing starts after approval.
Your proof confirms artwork, positioning and content. It is not a guaranteed physical colour match because screens, materials, inks and finishes all affect colour appearance. See How It Works for what happens next.
10
Common Artwork Problems
Avoid these issues to prevent delays.
Missing Bleed
Can leave white edges after trimming.
Extend artwork past the cut line.RGB Artwork
May cause colour shifts in print.
Convert to the required CMYK setup.Low Resolution
Produces blurry or pixelated graphics.
Use a high-resolution original.Flattened Dielines
Cannot be separated or checked.
Keep technical layers editable.Missing Fonts
Can change text unexpectedly.
Outline fonts or package the files.Outside Safe Area
Content may be cut or folded.
Move key details further inside.11
Artwork Guidelines FAQs
What file format do you prefer for printing?
Editable AI, vector PDF and EPS files are preferred because vectors, colours and technical layers can be checked properly.
What resolution should packaging artwork be?
Raster photographs and graphics should normally be 300 dpi at their final printed size. Vector artwork is resolution-independent.
Should my artwork be CMYK or RGB?
Conventional process-print artwork should normally be CMYK. RGB colours may change when converted for printing.
What is bleed on packaging artwork?
Bleed is artwork extending beyond the final cutting edge. It prevents unintended unprinted edges when slight movement occurs during cutting.
Can you check my artwork before I order?
Yes. Send your existing files for a free artwork check and we’ll identify common technical issues before production.
Can you create a dieline for my box?
Yes. Share the box style, dimensions and product details so the correct structure can be prepared.
Can you help if my artwork is not print-ready?
Yes. Send what you have and we’ll advise whether technical adjustments or additional design work are needed.
Does a digital proof guarantee exact printed colour?
No. It confirms content and placement. Materials, inks, finishes, print processes and display settings can affect colour appearance.
We’re here to help you get it right.
Free artwork check • Expert advice • Print perfection guaranteed