Artwork Guidelines

Following Printesq guidelines will prevent delays and ensure high-quality prints. Let Printesq customer service know if you need further assistance! 

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Topics:

1. File Format Instructions

2. ​File Resolution & Color System Guidelines

3. Guidelines for Artwork Preparation

4. Bleed & Safe Zone Guidelines

5. White Support Layer Guidelines

6. Gloss Spot UV Varnish Layer Guidelines

7. Barcode Guidelines for Optimal Scanning

8. Variable Data Printing Guidelines

9. Gold and Silver Foil Stamping Guidelines

10. Spot Colors & Pantone® Matching Guidelines

11. Final Artwork Checklist for Print-Ready Files

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Here’s a structured breakdown of the file format instructions for clarity and ease of reference:

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1-File Format Instructions

We accept a wide range of graphic file formats. Follow these guidelines for high-quality results.

1. Adobe Illustrator

• File Format: .AI (native Illustrator file)

• Requirements:

  • Package the job for output (include links, fonts, and all supporting graphics).

  • Outline text if font embedding is restricted.

2. Photoshop

• Accepted Formats:

  • .PSD (native Photoshop file)

  • .TIF (TIFF)

  • .EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)

• Resolution:

  • Minimum 600 dpi (higher resolutions may increase file size unnecessarily).

3. Adobe Acrobat (PDF Export)

• Settings:

  • Job Options: High-Resolution Print

  • Fonts: Embed All Fonts

  • Color: Turn Off Color Management

4. CorelDRAW

• File Format: .CDR (native CorelDRAW file)

• Requirements:

  • Package the job for output (include links, fonts, and all supporting graphics).

  • Convert text to curves if font licensing is an issue.

General Recommendations

• Vector Files (Illustrator, CorelDRAW): Preferred for logos and scalable graphics.

• Raster Files (Photoshop): Use high-resolution (600+ dpi) for print-quality images.

• PDFs: Ensure proper font embedding and color settings.

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2- File Resolution & Color System Guidelines

1. Image Resolution (For Print)

• Minimum: 400 dpi (for CMYK images in AI/ID)

• Preferred: 600 dpi (higher quality, larger file size)

• Avoid: Low-resolution web graphics (72/96 dpi – unsuitable for print)

2. Color System

• Print Standard: CMYK + White (W)

  • All RGB images will be auto-converted to CMYK, causing color shifts.

  • Submit files in CMYK for accurate color reproduction.

• Grayscale/Halftones:

  • Minimum: 600 ppi

  • Preferred: 1200 ppi (for sharper black & white prints)

3. Key Reminders

✅ Always provide high-res (400-600+ dpi) images – low-res (72/96 dpi) web graphics are unusable.
✅ Convert RGB to CMYK before submission to avoid unwanted color changes.
✅ Grayscale images require 600–1200 ppi for optimal print quality.

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3- Guidelines for Artwork Preparation

To ensure smooth processing and high-quality print results, please follow these instructions carefully:

 

1. Font Handling

• Provide all PostScript & TrueType fonts used in the file.

• If fonts cannot be provided, convert text to outlines (curves/paths).

• Avoid small decorative/serif fonts – they may not print clearly.

 

2. Color System

• Use PMS (Pantone) or CMYK for full composite color.

• Do not use RGB – all RGB files will be auto-converted to CMYK, causing color shifts.

 

3. Print Registration Tolerance

• Tolerance: 1/200 inch (0.125 mm)

• Avoid extremely fine details – multi-color small objects or thin lines may appear blurry.

 

4. Minimum Sizes for Text & Lines

Positive (Normal) Text & Lines

• Text: Minimum 4 pt. (Helvetica-style recommended)

• Lines: Minimum 1/3 pt. (0.005”)

Reverse (White/Knockout) Text & Lines

• Text: Minimum 4 pt. (Helvetica-style recommended)

• Lines: Minimum 1/2 pt. (0.007”)

⚠️ Avoid tiny serif/decorative fonts – thin strokes may not print properly.

 

5. Previewing Print Quality

• To check how small text/lines will print:

  • Convert the entire design to a 600 dpi CMYK image and preview.

 

6. Complex Objects & Effects

If your design uses:

• Mesh fills, lenses, color filters, particle effects, etc.
  → Convert them to a 600 dpi CMYK background image to prevent processing errors.

 

Summary Checklist

✅ Fonts: Provide or convert to outlines.
✅ Color: Use PMS or CMYK (no RGB).
✅ Fine details: Avoid text <4 pt. and lines <0.005”.
✅ Complex effects: Rasterize to 600 dpi CMYK.
✅ Preview: Convert to 600 dpi image to check print clarity.

 

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4- Bleed & Safe Zone Guidelines

Printesq offers over 2,000 dies in different shapes and sizes, including rectangle, round, oval, and square. Custom dies are also available to meet your unique shape requirements.

To ensure your labels print and die-cut correctly, follow these specifications:

 

1. Bleed Requirement

• Purpose: Ensures full edge coverage after cutting.

• Minimum Bleed: 1/16” (1.5mm) beyond the die-cut line on all sides.

• Artwork Extension:

  • Backgrounds, images, or solid colors must extend into the bleed area.

  • Do not place critical text/logos in the bleed—they may get trimmed.

 

2. Safe Zone (Inner Margin)

• Purpose: Keeps important content (text, logos) away from cut edges.

• Minimum Safe Zone: 1/8” (3mm) inside the die-cut line.

  • Ensure no essential elements (text, logos, barcodes) are within this margin.

 

3. Die-Cutting Tolerance

• Production Tolerance: 1/100” (0.25mm)

  • Slight shifts may occur during cutting; bleeds and safe zones prevent misalignment issues.

 

Visual Example

Copy

|-----------------------------------------| 

|               SAFE ZONE              | 

|          (3mm from cut line)        |

|                                                 |

|          |------------------------|         | 

|          |  DESIGN AREA  |         | 

|          |------------------------|         | 

|                                                 | 

|                                                 |

|   BLEED (1.5mm extension)    | 

|-----------------------------------------| 

 

• Design Area: Where your main content should stay.

• Safe Zone: Buffer to avoid trimming critical elements.

• Bleed: Extended background for clean cuts.

 

Key Reminders

✅ Extend backgrounds 1.5mm past cut lines (bleed).
✅ Keep text/logos 3mm inside cut lines (safe zone).
✅ Avoid placing barcodes, tiny text, or key details near edges.

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5- White Support Layer Guidelines

To ensure accurate color reproduction on Clear, Metallic (Silver/Gold), and Holographic labels, follow these instructions for White Support Layer preparation:

 

1. When is White Support Required?

White ink acts as an opaque base layer behind CMYK to:
✔ Block transparency (on Clear labels) – prevents see-through effects.
✔ Neutralize metallic/holographic shine (on Silver/Gold/Holographic labels) – ensures colors appear true, not distorted by the reflective material.
✔ Mimic printing on white stock – provides a consistent, solid background.

Without White Support:

• CMYK prints will appear translucent (Clear) or tinted by the metallic/holographic base.

 

2. How to Prepare the White Support Layer

A. File Setup

• Software: Create in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or CorelDRAW.

• Color Mode: CMYK + Spot White (if using a Pantone white channel).

• Resolution: 600 DPI (for sharp print quality).

B. White Layer Requirements

• Coverage:

  • Must extend under all colored areas needing opacity (CMYK graphics, text, logos).

  • Should match the shape of the colored elements (no gaps or misalignment).

• Bleed Edges:

  • Extend 1.5mm (1/16") into the bleed (if applicable) to avoid white gaps on cuts.

C. Exporting & File Submission

• PDF/X-4 (preferred) with high-res images & embedded fonts.

• Native files (AI, PSD, CDR): Include the white layer as a separate channel/layer labeled "White Base" or "Spot White".

• No rasterized white (unless part of a flattened 600 DPI CMYK+W image).

 

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Missing white under vibrant colors → Leads to faded/transparent prints.
❌ White layer smaller than CMYK art → Causes halo effects/unwanted material show-through.
❌ Low-resolution white layer → Appears pixelated or uneven.

 

4. Visual Example (Clear Label)

Copy

[Transparent Material] 

↓ 

[WHITE INK LAYER] ← Blocks transparency, creates solid base. 

↓ 

[CMYK ARTWORK] ← Colors appear true, not washed out. 

 

5. Checklist for White Support

✅ Required for: Clear, Silver, Gold, Holographic materials.
✅ Full coverage under all colored elements.
✅ 600 DPI resolution for sharp edges.
✅ Extends into bleed (if applicable).
✅ Exported as separate layer/channel (or PDF with spot white).

 

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6- Gloss Spot UV Varnish Layer Guidelines

Spot UV varnish adds a high-gloss, raised finish to specific areas of your label, creating tactile and visual contrast (e.g., shiny logos on a matte background). Follow these steps for proper file preparation:

 

1. When to Use Spot UV

✔ Highlight logos, text, or design elements for a premium look.
✔ Create texture contrast (e.g., glossy patterns on matte paper).
✔ Enhance durability (UV coating protects ink from scratches).

 

2. File Preparation Guidelines

A. Software & Color Setup

• Software: Adobe Illustrator (preferred), Photoshop, or CorelDRAW.

• Color Mode: CMYK + Spot Color Channel (for UV layer).

  • Name the Spot Color:

    • Illustrator: "Spot UV Gloss" (Pantone spot color recommended).

    • CorelDRAW: Assign a spot color labeled "Spot UV".

B. UV Layer Requirements

• Resolution: 600 DPI minimum (for sharp edges).

• Coverage:

  • Must be a solid 100% fill (no transparency/gradients).

  • Should precisely align with the areas to be glossed.

• Bleed: Extend 0.5mm beyond the design area to avoid gaps.

C. Exporting & Submission

• PDF/X-4 (with spot color preserved).

• Native Files (AI/PSD/CDR):

  • Keep UV layer separate (labeled clearly, e.g., "SPOT UV").

  • Do not flatten (printer needs editable layers).

 

3. Design Tips for Spot UV

✅ Contrast is key: Use UV gloss over matte laminate for maximum effect.
✅ Avoid tiny details: Thin lines (<0.5pt) may not coat evenly.
✅ Preview first: Simulate the effect by overlaying a semi-transparent black layer (20% opacity) on your design.

 

4. Common Mistakes

❌ Unnamed spot color → Printer may miss the UV layer.
❌ Low-resolution UV art → Blurry or jagged edges.
❌ Overlapping CMYK & UV misalignment → Gloss spills outside intended areas.

 

5. Visual Example

Copy

[Printed Label: Matte Finish] 

↓ 

[Spot UV Layer: Glossy Raised Coating] ← Only on selected areas (e.g., logo). 

 

6. Checklist for Spot UV Files

✅ Spot color channel named "SPOT UV" or "Gloss Varnish".
✅ 600 DPI resolution (vector preferred for sharp edges).
✅ No transparency/gradients in UV layer.
✅ Bleed extended 0.5mm for cutting tolerance.
✅ Native file + PDF submitted with layers intact.

 

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7- Barcode Guidelines for Optimal Scanning

To ensure 100% scannability, follow these specifications when preparing barcodes for your labels:

 

1. Size & Scaling

✔ Minimum Size: Follow the barcode type’s recommended dimensions (e.g., UPC-A, Code 128).
✔ Do Not Scale/Skew: Resizing can distort bars and cause scanning failures.
✔ Larger = Better: Bigger barcodes improve readability.

 

2. Clear Space (Quiet Zone)

✔ Minimum 1/8” (3.2mm) white space on all sides of the barcode.
✔ No text, graphics, or borders in this zone.

 

3. Color & Contrast

✔ Ideal: Pure black (K100, C0/M0/Y0) on white background.
✔ Avoid:

• Colored barcodes (CMYK mixes may reduce contrast).

• Low-contrast backgrounds (e.g., gray, metallic, holographic).

• Reverse barcodes (white on black) unless tested for scanability.

For non-white materials (clear/metallic):
→ Add a white underprint layer beneath the barcode.

 

4. Barcode Types & Settings

✔ Linear Barcodes (UPC, EAN, Code 128, Code 39):

• Resolution: Minimum 600 DPI for sharp edges.

• Bar Width: Follow industry standards (no thinning).

✔ 2D Barcodes (QR, Data Matrix):

• Error Correction: High (30% recommended).

• Module Size: Minimum 0.01” (0.25mm).

 

5. Verification & Testing

✔ Pre-submission Check:

• Test scan with multiple devices (smartphones, industrial scanners).

• Verify with a barcode verifier tool (grades A/B/C pass; D/F fail).

✔ Let Us Help:

• We can generate and pre-verify barcodes for you upon request.

 

6. Common Mistakes

❌ Insufficient quiet zone → Scanners can’t detect start/stop patterns.
❌ Low contrast → Scanners misread bars.
❌ Stretched/skewed barcodes → Distorts bar spacing.

 

Checklist for Barcode Readability

✅ Correct size (not scaled down).
✅ 1/8” (3.2mm) white border on all sides.
✅ Pure black (K100) on white.
✅ No effects (gloss UV, embossing) on the barcode.
✅ Tested with a scanner before final submission.

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8- Variable Data Printing Guidelines

To ensure accurate and efficient printing of your variable data labels, please follow these instructions when preparing your files:

 

1. File Preparation

A. Artwork File (Static Design)

• Provide a print-ready master design (AI, PDF, PSD, or CDR) with:

  • Static elements (logos, fixed text, graphics).

  • Placeholders for variable fields (marked clearly, e.g., "VAR_TEXT" or "VAR_BARCODE").

  • Bleed & safe zones (if applicable).

B. Data File (Variable Fields)

• Format: Microsoft Excel (.XLSX) (preferred) or CSV.

• Structure:

  • Columns = Variable fields (e.g., Name, Barcode, Expiry Date).

  • Rows = Individual labels (one row per label).

  • Headers: Label columns clearly (e.g., "PRODUCT_NAME", "SERIAL_NUMBER").

 

Example Excel Format:

PRODUCT_NAME         SERIAL_NUMBER         EXPIRY_DATE         BARCODE_DATA

      Product A                         SN123456                  2025-12-31                1234567890

      Product B                         SN789012                  2026-06-30                0987654321

 

2. Variable Field Specifications

• Text Fields:

  • Specify font, size, color, and alignment.

  • Indicate if text should auto-adjust (e.g., shrink-to-fit).

• Barcodes:

  • Provide data source column (e.g., "BARCODE_DATA").

  • Follow barcode guidelines (black on white, quiet zones, etc.).

• Images/Logos:

  • Include folder paths or embedded references in the Excel file.

 

3. Label Sequencing & Roll Configuration

• Data Direction: Specify if labels are sequential (1,2,3...) or reverse-ordered.

• Roll Count: Indicate number of labels per roll.

• Duplicates/Repeats: Note if any labels should be reprinted (e.g., for multi-part forms).

 

4. Submission Checklist

✅ Static design file (with placeholders).
✅ Excel/CSV data file (clearly labeled columns).
✅ Fonts/links (if custom fonts or images are used).
✅ Barcode/QR code specs (if applicable).
✅ Roll sequence & count instructions.

 

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Unformatted Excel data (missing headers, inconsistent entries).
❌ No placeholders in the design file.
❌ Low-resolution images for variable graphics.

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9- Gold and Silver Foil Stamping Guidelines

Foil stamping adds a luxurious metallic finish to your labels, creating eye-catching highlights. Follow these steps for proper file preparation:

 

1. When to Use Foil Stamping

✔ Elevate logos, text, or decorative elements with metallic shine.
✔ Pair with embossing for a 3D textured effect.
✔ Enhance premium packaging (wine, cosmetics, limited editions).

 

2. File Preparation Guidelines

A. Software & Color Setup

• Software: Adobe Illustrator (vector preferred) or Photoshop (600 DPI).

• Foil Layer:

  • Create a separate spot color channel named:

    • FOIL GOLD / FOIL SILVER (Pantone spot color recommended).

  • Use 100% solid fill (no gradients/transparency).

B. Design Requirements

• Minimum Line Thickness: 0.5 pt (thinner lines may foil unevenly).

• Text Size: ≥6 pt for readability.

• Bleed: Extend foil area 0.5mm beyond design edges for alignment tolerance.

C. Exporting & Submission

• PDF/X-4: Preserves spot color layers.

• Native Files (AI/PSD/CDR):

  • Keep foil layer editable and labeled (e.g., "FOIL MASK").

  • Do not flatten or rasterize.

 

3. Foil + Printing Combinations

Base Material Recommended Pairing

White Paper    Gold/Silver foil + CMYK print.

Clear Labels   Foil + White underprint (for opacity).

Black Labels   Silver foil (high contrast).

 

4. Common Mistakes

❌ Low-resolution foil art → Blurry edges.
❌ Unnamed spot color → Printer misses foil layer.
❌ Tiny details (<0.5pt) → Foil breaks during stamping.

 

5. Visual Example

Copy

[Printed Label: Matte Finish] 

↓ 

[Foil Stamping Layer: Metallic Gold/Silver] ← Only on selected areas. 

 

6. Checklist for Foil Stamping

✅ Spot color channel named FOIL GOLD or FOIL SILVER.
✅ Vector-based (or 600 DPI raster).
✅ 0.5mm bleed on foil areas.
✅ No gradients/transparency in foil layer.
✅ Physical proof requested (for color/metallic effect verification).

 

Need a template or design advice? Contact Printesq for assistance! ✨

Note: Actual foil color may vary slightly due to material reflectivity. A production proof is recommended.

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10- Spot Colors & Pantone® Matching Guidelines

To ensure accurate color reproduction in your labels, follow these specifications when using PANTONE® Spot Colors:

 

1. Color System & Coverage

✔ Supported Range: We match 96% of PANTONE® Coated colors.
✔ Best for:

• Brand colors (logos, packaging).

• Metallic/specialty inks (e.g., PANTONE® Metallics, pastels).

⚠ Limitations:

• Fluorescent or neon PANTONE® colors may require substitution.

• Uncoated PANTONE® colors will be converted to coated equivalents.

 

2. File Preparation

A. Software Setup

• Design Files: Use PANTONE® Coated libraries in:

  • Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop (PANTONE+ Solid Coated).

  • CorelDRAW (PANTONE® Solid Coated).

• Color Mode:

  • Spot Channels (not CMYK mixes).

  • Label spots clearly (e.g., PANTONE 185 C).

B. Exporting & Proofing

• PDF/X-4: Preserves spot colors.

• Native Files: Keep spot layers editable (do not flatten).

• Production Proof: Strongly recommended for color-critical jobs.

 

3. Critical Reminders

✅ Always specify PANTONE® numbers (e.g., PANTONE 185 C).
✅ Avoid CMYK conversions – spot colors ensure accuracy.
✅ Request a physical proof to verify color match before mass production.

 

4. Pantone® Alternatives

If a PANTONE® color is out of gamut:

1. We’ll suggest the closest match.

2. Provide a custom ink blend (additional cost).

 

5. Checklist for Spot Colors

✔ PANTONE® Coated references in design files.
✔ Spot channels (not process CMYK).
✔ Physical proof requested (for critical colors).
✔ Avoid RGB/HEX values for spot color definitions.

 

Need a PANTONE® color chart or proof? Contact Printesq for assistance! 🎨

PANTONE® is a trademark of Pantone LLC. Our inks are independently matched to PANTONE® standards.

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11- Final Artwork Checklist for Print-Ready Files

To guarantee flawless results and avoid production delays, ensure your files meet all Printesq guidelines:

 

✅ Essential Requirements

1. File Format

   • Vector: .AI (packaged with fonts/links), .PDF/X-4 (high-res, embedded fonts).

   • Raster: .PSD/.TIF at 600+ DPI (CMYK, no RGB).

2. Bleed & Safe Zones

   • Bleed: Extend backgrounds 1.5mm (1/16") beyond cut lines.

   • Safe Zone: Keep critical content 3mm (1/8") inside trim edges.

3. Color System

   • CMYK for process colors.

   • PANTONE® Coated for spot colors (specify numbers).

   • White underprint for clear/metallic materials.

4. Special Finishes

   • Spot UV/Gloss: Separate spot color layer ("SPOT UV").

   • Foil Stamping: Separate channel ("FOIL GOLD"/"FOIL SILVER").

5. Text & Fonts

   • Convert text to outlines OR supply font files.

   • Minimum 4pt size (6pt for foil/UV).

6. Barcodes

   • Pure black (K100) on white.

   • 3.2mm (1/8") quiet zone on all sides.

 

🚫 Common Rejection Reasons

• Low-resolution images (<300 DPI).

• Missing bleeds/safe zones.

• RGB colors or unembedded fonts.

• Unlabeled special finish layers.

 

📦 Submission Steps

1. Final Check: Use Printesq’s Preflight Checklist.

2. Package Files: Include design + fonts/links + Excel (for variable data).

3. Request a Proof: Physical/digital proof for color/finish approval.

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Need help? Contact Printesq Customer Service:

📞 Call: +1 818 653 0778

📧 Email: sales@printesq.com
🌐 Online: https://www.printesq.com/order

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Following Printesq guidelines ensures professional, error-free labels. Let Printesq costumer service know if you need a template or further help!