Color Profiles
For accurate printing results, all artwork files should be prepared using the CMYK color mode (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black). RGB color mode is typically used for screens and digital displays, but it does not translate accurately to print. Converting your design to CMYK ensures that the colors printed on your premium boxes match the intended design as closely as possible. If your packaging requires Pantone (PMS) spot colors, metallic inks, or special finishes, these should be specified separately in the artwork file.
File Formats
To maintain design accuracy and support smooth production, artwork files should be submitted in print-ready vector formats such as AI, PDF, and EPS. For photography or image-based artwork, high-resolution JPEG, PNG, and TIFF files are also accepted. Vector files are preferred because they keep graphics and text sharp at any size without losing quality. Before submission, make sure all images are embedded, all fonts are outlined, and the file is not compressed or exported in low quality.
Text and Fonts
Text elements must be prepared properly to avoid font issues during printing and ensure clear readability on the final packaging. Convert all text to outlined fonts before submitting the file so the typography appears exactly as designed without missing font errors. Use a minimum font size of 9pt for readability, avoid overly thin or decorative fonts that may lose clarity when printed, and keep all text within the safe area of the dieline to prevent trimming issues.
Finishing Options
Luxury packaging often includes special finishing techniques such as foil stamping, embossing, debossing, Spot UV, matte or gloss lamination, and Pantone spot colors. If your design includes any of these effects, they should be prepared on separate layers within the artwork file and clearly labeled for accurate production. For example, foil stamping and Spot UV areas should be created as separate vector layers and properly named to ensure they are applied exactly as intended.
Dieline
A dieline is the packaging template that shows where the box will be cut, folded, and glued during production. When designing your artwork, always use the provided dieline template, do not modify its structure, do not flatten the dieline layer, and place your artwork beneath it. Most dielines include color-coded cut lines, fold lines, and glue areas, so it is important to keep artwork clear of restricted zones and place all important design elements within the safe area to avoid trimming during production.
Images and Graphics
All images and graphics used in your packaging design should be high-quality to ensure sharp and clear printing results. Images should have a minimum resolution of 300 DPI, be embedded in the file, and should not be stretched or scaled from low-resolution sources, as this can cause blurry or pixelated printing. For graphics, vector artwork is preferred because it remains crisp and scalable at any print size. Make sure thin lines or strokes are at least 0.25 pt thick and maintain consistent graphic quality across the entire design for a clean, professional finish.