Preferred
- Adobe Illustrator artwork
- Vector PDF files
- Editable vector logos
- Outlined type when practical
Label Artwork Preparation Guide
Good artwork preparation helps reduce avoidable prepress revisions and supports clearer, more consistent label production. This guide outlines preferred file formats and technical setup recommendations for customer-supplied label artwork, especially for flexographic printing.
Every project should still receive a production-specific review. Label size, material, print method, color requirements, barcode use, finishing, application surface, and end-use conditions can all affect the final specification.
- Use vector artwork whenever possible.
- Build process-color artwork in CMYK mode.
- Supply images at 300 dpi minimum at final print size.
- Include 1/8-inch bleeds and 1/8-inch safe zones.
- Outline fonts or include font files and support files.
Artwork Submission Checklist
| Artwork Element | Recommended Setup |
|---|---|
| Preferred file format | Adobe Illustrator file or vector PDF whenever possible. |
| Color mode | CMYK for process-color artwork. |
| Image resolution | 300 dpi minimum at final print size; 600 dpi or more is preferred when available. |
| Bleed | Extend bleeding artwork at least 1/8 inch beyond the trim line. |
| Safe zone | Keep important text and critical elements at least 1/8 inch inside the trim edge. |
| Fonts | Outline fonts or include font files with the artwork package. |
| Support files | Include linked images, placed graphics, and other required support files. |
| Reference proof | Provide a color proof or PDF for reference with the submitted artwork. |
Preferred File Format: Vector Artwork
Use vector graphics whenever possible. Adobe Illustrator files and vector PDF files are preferred because vector artwork can scale without the pixelation associated with low-resolution raster images. It also helps preserve clean edges for text, logos, line art, and other graphic elements.
Include With Artwork
- Linked or placed images
- Support graphics
- Required fonts, if not outlined
- Reference PDF or color proof
Review Before Sending
- Correct label dimensions
- Current artwork version
- Required variable information
- Barcode data, if applicable
Color Setup for Label Printing
Create process-color artwork in CMYK color mode. RGB artwork is intended for screen display and can produce unexpected color changes when converted for print production.
Avoid using process colors for text when a solid color is appropriate. If the project includes specified brand colors, spot-color requirements, or critical color expectations, identify those requirements during quoting and artwork review so the production approach can be evaluated.
Color Expectations Require Project Review
Monitor displays, office printers, digital proofs, materials, inks, and production methods can produce different visual results. A PDF or color proof is useful as a reference, but final production requirements should be confirmed before release.
Image Resolution and Support Files
Save images at a minimum resolution of 300 dpi at final print size to support sharp, clear printed output. Higher-resolution images, such as 600 dpi or more, are preferred when available.
Resolution should be evaluated at the final size used on the label. An image that looks large enough on a screen may be too low in resolution for print if it has been enlarged beyond its original dimensions.
- Use images that are at least 300 dpi at final print size.
- Use 600 dpi or higher when available for the best potential image quality.
- Include linked images and placed graphics with the artwork package.
- Do not rely on screen appearance alone to judge print quality.
- Provide the current, approved version of every required artwork file.
Bleed, Trim, and Safe Zone Requirements
Label trimming and die-cutting require artwork to account for the trim edge. Background colors, patterns, and other elements intended to reach the edge of the finished label should extend beyond the final trim line.
| Area | Artwork Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bleed area | Extend artwork that reaches the finished edge by at least 1/8 inch beyond the trim line. |
| Trim line | Represents the intended finished edge of the label. |
| Safe zone | Keep important text, logos, barcodes, and other critical content at least 1/8 inch inside the trim edge. |
Safe-zone spacing helps reduce the risk that important content appears too close to the finished edge. Final requirements may vary when label size, shape, material, die-cutting, print registration, or application needs require additional consideration.
Fonts, Proofs, and Final Content Approval
Outline fonts whenever practical. If fonts are not outlined, include the required font files with the artwork package. This helps avoid missing-font substitutions or unintended changes during prepress review.
Include a PDF or color proof with artwork as a reference. The proof should help identify the intended layout, artwork version, content, and general color expectations. It does not replace the need for final review and approval of production-ready files.
Customer Approval Responsibilities
Customers are responsible for approving the accuracy, spelling, dimensions, product information, barcode data, version control, and regulatory suitability of all supplied label content before production.
Artwork Requirements Can Vary by Label Application
Artwork is only one part of a successful label program. The correct material, adhesive, print method, finish, roll format, and barcode setup depend on the product, application surface, environment, application method, and production requirements.
Flexographic Printing
Review flexographic label-printing capabilities for repeat production programs and established label artwork.
Explore flexographic printingDigital Printing
Explore digital production for shorter runs, multiple SKUs, testing, seasonal work, and product launches.
Explore digital printingBarcode Labels
Plan barcode labels around data requirements, print quality, application needs, and intended scanning environments.
Explore barcode labelsMaterials & Adhesives
Consider label facestock, adhesive, surface, environment, handling, and expected service conditions.
Explore materials and adhesivesTest Before Full Production
Before full production, test labels on the actual surface and in the intended operating environment whenever possible. This is especially important for durable applications, curved containers, textured surfaces, refrigerated or frozen products, moisture exposure, chemical exposure, and automated application.
For barcode projects, test printed barcodes with the intended scanners, software, lighting, scanning distance, and actual operating conditions. Barcode readability can be affected by artwork, print contrast, symbol size, material, finish, scanner configuration, and application conditions.
Artwork Preparation FAQ
What file format should I submit for label artwork?
Vector artwork is preferred whenever possible. Adobe Illustrator files and vector PDF files are recommended because vector graphics can scale cleanly and help maintain clarity in the printed result.
Should label artwork be created in CMYK?
Yes. Artwork should be created in CMYK color mode for process-color printing. Avoid using process colors for text when a solid color is appropriate. Any requested spot colors, brand-color requirements, or color expectations should be identified during quoting and artwork review.
What image resolution is required for label printing?
Images should be saved at a minimum of 300 dpi at final print size. Higher-resolution images, such as 600 dpi or more, are preferred when available for the best potential image quality. Include linked or placed support files with the submitted artwork.
How much bleed and safe zone should label artwork include?
Extend background artwork and other bleeding elements at least 1/8 inch beyond the trim line. Keep important text, logos, barcodes, and other critical elements at least 1/8 inch inside the trim edge.
Should fonts be outlined or included with the artwork?
Yes. Outline fonts whenever practical, or include the font files with the artwork package. This helps prevent missing-font substitutions or unintended text changes during prepress review.