Packaging Artwork and Dieline Preparation: Factory Requirements

Submitting artwork that a packaging factory can use immediately—without extensive back-and-forth—reduces lead time and sampling errors. This guide explains what a factory needs from a designer or brand manager when ordering custom packaging.

What Is a Dieline?

A dieline (also called a die template or cutting die) is a 2D flat pattern showing exactly where the packaging will be cut, scored, glued and folded. Every box, bag and pouch has its own unique dieline. For printing, artwork is placed on the dieline so it lines up exactly with the physical die-cuts when produced.

If you do not have a designer, BestPackFactory provides free dieline templates for all standard sizes and custom dieline creation for non-standard sizes. Simply provide the required internal dimensions and we send you the template.

Required File Formats

• PDF (preferred): Vector PDF with fonts embedded or outlined. All colours in CMYK mode.
• AI (Adobe Illustrator): Native Illustrator file with all linked images embedded. Fonts outlined.
• EPS: Acceptable for simple designs. Ensure all colours are correctly defined.
• PSD (Photoshop): Acceptable for photographic artwork but must be at 300dpi at print size. Not suitable as the primary file for designs with text or fine lines.

Do not submit JPG, PNG or low-resolution files as final artwork. These cannot be printed at press quality.

Bleed and Safe Zone Requirements

Colour Modes and Pantone Specification

All artwork submitted for offset printing should be in CMYK colour mode, not RGB. RGB colours will be converted by the prepress operator and the result may differ from what appears on your screen.

If you need a specific brand colour (corporate blue, specific green, metallic), specify a Pantone Matching System (PMS) code rather than a CMYK value. A Pantone code like PMS 2747 C or PMS 376 C will be mixed by the printer as a single-colour ink, giving much more accurate colour reproduction than CMYK blending.

Common Pantone-related mistakes to avoid:

• Specifying PMS "U" (uncoated) for a coated substrate, or vice versa—always match the paper coating type
• Using metallic Pantone (8xx series) without confirming the factory can apply hot stamping or metallic ink—these are different processes
• Providing a Pantone code but also including a CMYK equivalent—the factory will use CMYK and the result will differ from the Pantone reference

Printing Resolution Requirements

• Raster images (photos): minimum 300 DPI at final print size
• Line art / logos: use vector formats; if raster, minimum 600 DPI
• Minimum positive text size: 5pt (7pt recommended for best legibility)
• Minimum reversed-out (white text on dark background) size: 7pt minimum

Foil Stamping and Embossing Artwork

If your design includes hot stamping or embossing, these require separate spot colour layers in the file:

• Create a new spot colour layer named "Foil Gold" or "Emboss" etc.
• Apply the foil/emboss as a 100% solid shape in the spot colour—no gradients, no transparency
• Minimum foil element size: 0.3mm line, 1.5mm text height (for hot stamping)
• Emboss die will be made from this layer—ensure it has a clear, closed outline

What to Submit to BestPackFactory

To receive an accurate quotation and begin sampling, please submit:

1. Completed artwork file (PDF or AI) with dieline layer showing cut/score/fold lines in a separate non-printing colour
2. Confirmation of all finishing (lamination type, foil colour, emboss elements)
3. Any reference sample photo showing the finished look you want
4. Quantity, destination country and required delivery date