Native artwork and PDF
Send the editable design file plus a PDF showing the expected appearance. Package linked images and fonts, or convert type to outlines when appropriate.
Artwork guidelines
We check artwork against the approved structure and selected printing method before plates, dies, proofs, or production are approved. The review covers print panels, color references, images, type, barcodes, versions, and finishes.
Before production
Files to send
Send the working files and a PDF showing how the finished package should look. We will confirm any press-specific requirements before production.
Dieline
Keep cut, crease, perforation, glue, window, and print-safe information on separate named layers. Do not resize or reshape the dieline after artwork is placed without structural review.
Images and line art
Use high-resolution raster images at final size and vector line art for logos, type, fine rules, and flexographic work. We confirm exact resolution and minimum line requirements for the job.
Versions and copy
Identify every SKU, language, barcode, ingredient panel, warning, date area, variable field, and common versus changing panel. A version list prevents files from being produced against the wrong quantity.
File transfer
Keep native artwork, linked images, fonts, and the PDF preview in one clearly named folder. Initial files can be attached to the contact form when size allows. We will confirm a shared download or other transfer method for larger folders.
Artwork setup
Color, bleed, and print areas
Final allowances depend on the approved dieline, board, press, and finishing work.
Color references
Use CMYK, Pantone, or GCMI references appropriate to the printing method. Name any required brand standard, target sample, white ink, varnish, coating, or color match.
Bleed and safe areas
Extend artwork beyond cut edges and keep critical type, codes, and logos inside safe areas. Exact allowances depend on the dieline, board, press, and converting registration.
Panels, folds, and seams
Check orientation across front, back, top, bottom, dust flaps, glue seams, inside print, turn-ins, wrap seams, and separate lid or base pieces.
Finishes
Place foil, embossing, debossing, windows, spot coatings, opaque white, cutouts, and specialty applications on separate named layers with clear callouts.
Production artwork
Guidance by print method
We confirm the final tolerances and proof standard for the approved package and print method.
| Print method | Normal preparation | What the selected printer confirms |
|---|---|---|
| Corrugated flexographic | Vector art, spot colors or approved process work, print-safe areas, limited fine detail, and clear board/liner color assumptions. | Plate, trap, screen, line weight, type size, registration, ink, coating, color target, and print tolerance. |
| Corrugated direct digital | High-resolution raster or vector art, CMYK files, white-ink or liner assumptions, version list, and finished-size panel orientation. | File profile, resolution, white ink, gamut, coating, banding or screening limits, proof method, and material compatibility. |
| Litho-laminated corrugated | Offset-ready files, bleed, color references, coating or film callouts, and allowance for the printed sheet to be mounted to corrugated board. | Sheet size, paper, lamination, board, registration, grain, coating, proof, and converting allowance. |
| Folding cartons | Offset- or digital-ready artwork, dieline layers, bleed, safe areas, small copy, barcodes, colors, windows, foil, embossing, and coating callouts. | Paperboard, press profile, trapping, line and type limits, proof standard, finish tolerances, die cutting, creasing, and folder-gluer requirements. |
Before the press run
Proof and approval
Screen or PDF proof
Checks copy, placement, panel orientation, version, and basic separation. It is not an exact color, material, finish, or physical sample unless the quote says otherwise.
Color proof or printed comp
Used when color, imagery, presentation, or an assembled mockup needs closer review. The proofing device and final production press can still differ.
Approved production files
The approved artwork version, dieline, proof, color reference, finish callouts, and production notes are confirmed before production. Later changes can affect price, tooling, and schedule.