How to Prepare Artwork Files for Custom Packaging Printing

You may have already confirmed the product, packaging structure and quotation. Then, just when the project seems ready to move forward, the supplier asks one more question:

“Can you send us the print-ready artwork?”

This is where many custom packaging projects suddenly slow down.

Correct custom packaging artwork files help prevent missing fonts, blurry logos, incorrect colors, misplaced hot stamping, outdated dielines and unnecessary sample revisions. More importantly, good artwork allows the packaging supplier to understand exactly how your box or tube should be printed and finished.

So, before you send that final AI or PDF file, it is worth checking whether the artwork is actually ready for production—not simply whether it looks good on your screen.

What Is This Packaging Type?

In this article, we are not talking about one particular box or paper tube. Instead, we are talking about the technical artwork required to manufacture custom paper packaging.

Custom packaging artwork files are production files built on the approved packaging dieline.

Unlike a JPG mockup, they tell the factory where to:

• Print
• Cut
• Fold
• Glue
• Apply foil
• Emboss
• Deboss
• Apply spot UV
• Create a window
• Position regulatory text

In other words, the mockup explains the visual idea, while the technical artwork explains how that idea becomes a physical package.

Common Artwork Components

A packaging production file may contain:

• Dieline
• Cut line
• Crease line
• Glue area
• Bleed
• Safe area
• CMYK artwork
• Pantone colors
• Product text
• Barcode
• Hot-stamping layer
• Embossing layer
• Debossing layer
• Spot UV layer
• Window line
• Insert artwork

Therefore, the final artwork should always be created around the approved production structure rather than an estimated size.

Preferred Artwork Formats

For many packaging projects, editable formats such as these are practical:

• AI
• Editable PDF
• EPS

Meanwhile, high-resolution PSD or TIFF files may be used for photographs or raster artwork.

Vector graphics are especially useful for logos, text, dielines and finishing areas because Illustrator vector artwork can be scaled for print without the pixelation associated with low-resolution raster graphics.

Why JPG or PNG Is Usually Not Enough

A JPG may show the design clearly. However, it normally does not contain editable:

• Dielines
• Spot colors
• Foil paths
• Embossing paths
• Cutting paths
• Separate finishing layers

Therefore, a JPG is better treated as a visual reference rather than the only production file.

If you only have a JPG, tell the packaging supplier early. The design or prepress team can then determine whether the artwork needs to be rebuilt.

Common Applications

The preparation of custom packaging artwork files varies according to the product category.

Perfume Packaging

Perfume packaging often looks visually simple but may involve several premium finishing processes.

For example, a rigid perfume box or paper tube may require separate layers for:

• Dark green Pantone printing
• Gold foil logo
• Embossed brand mark
• Matte lamination
• Insert branding

If the gold logo must also be embossed, the supplier needs to know whether the embossing follows exactly the same shape.

Therefore, separate the layers clearly.

A practical Illustrator layer structure could look like:

• DIELINE
• CMYK PRINT
• PANTONE
• GOLD FOIL
• EMBOSS
• SPOT UV
• INSERT

This makes communication much easier.

Skincare and Cosmetics

Cosmetic packaging often contains more written information than perfume packaging.

Typical content may include:

• Product name
• Ingredients
• Directions
• Net contents
• Warnings
• Manufacturer details
• Barcode
• Batch information

Consequently, typography and safe areas become especially important.

Before sending the artwork, check whether small text is too close to:

• Fold lines
• Cutting edges
• Windows
• Glue flaps
• Tube seams

Tea and Coffee

Tea and coffee packaging frequently combines branding with detailed product information.

This may include:

• Country of origin
• Flavor notes
• Brewing instructions
• Ingredients
• Net weight
• Barcode

If the artwork is printed on natural kraft paper, keep in mind that the brown paper base will affect how colors appear.

Therefore, do not assume that a color shown on a white monitor will reproduce identically on kraft paper.

Chocolate and Candy

Chocolate and confectionery packaging often combines:

• CMYK illustrations
• Photography
• Gold foil
• Windows
• Product information

A window introduces an additional technical area.

Therefore, the artwork should clearly show the window die-cut line while keeping text and important graphics outside the required production tolerance.

Candle Packaging

Candle packaging often uses simpler, more premium artwork.

A typical design might combine:

• Dark background
• Brand logo
• Scent name
• Botanical illustration
• Gold foil
• Product weight

However, dark surfaces can make small printing or finishing inconsistencies more visible.

Therefore, physical sampling is especially valuable for premium candle packaging.

Gift Packaging

Gift packaging gives designers more creative freedom.

However, structures such as drawer boxes, magnetic boxes and telescopic packaging have several visible surfaces.

Consequently, the designer should consider the entire unboxing sequence rather than designing only the front panel.

Material Options

The paper selected for production affects how custom packaging artwork files will reproduce in real life.

Kraft Paper

Natural kraft paper has a brown base tone.

Therefore, bright colors may appear more muted compared with printing on white coated paper.

Suitable design directions include:

• Black printing
• Dark green
• Brown
• White ink where supported
• Copper foil
• Matte gold foil

In fact, the natural material itself can become part of the artwork.

Art Paper

Coated art paper provides a smooth surface for:

• CMYK printing
• Pantone
• Photography
• Fine typography
• Gradients
• Detailed illustrations

Afterward, it can receive:

• Matte lamination
• Gloss lamination
• Soft-touch lamination
• Anti-scratch lamination

Specialty Paper

Specialty papers may include:

• Linen texture
• Leather texture
• Metallic paper
• Pearlized paper
• Dyed-through paper
• Embossed texture

However, deeply textured surfaces can reduce the visual clarity of very fine details.

Therefore, extremely thin logo lines or small foil details may need to be simplified before production.

Food-Grade Paper

Food packaging may require approved food-contact materials or internal barrier components.

However, these technical materials are generally specified separately from the outer decorative artwork.

For example, the external design may be printed on art paper, while the inside uses:

• Food-grade paper
• PE-coated paper
• Grease-resistant paper
• Foil liner
• Inner pouch

Foil Liner

Tea, coffee, nuts and snack tubes may use an aluminum foil or multilayer liner.

Usually, the exterior artwork file still controls only the outer branding.

However, if an internal component also requires printing, provide separate artwork and clearly identify the part.

Structure Options

Packaging structure should be finalized before the designer completes custom packaging artwork files.

Otherwise, a structural change may force the artwork to be redesigned.

Paper Lid Tube

A standard paper tube normally contains:

• Main body
• Lid
• Bottom
• Seam area

Avoid placing the main logo directly over the vertical seam.

Instead, define the primary viewing area.

Shoulder-Neck Tube

A shoulder-neck tube contains an inner neck that becomes visible after the lid is removed.

This creates another branding opportunity.

For example:

• Dark green exterior
• Gold inner neck
• Cream interior

However, all visible components should be included in the approved material and production specification.

Telescopic Structure

A telescopic tube may use:

• Long upper lid
• Short lower base
• Inner insert

Therefore, the designer should confirm:

• Upper-section height
• Lower-section height
• Overlap
• Front orientation

Do not guess these dimensions.

Window Packaging

Window artwork must use the approved die-cut position.

The design should consider:

• Window shape
• Window size
• Film area
• Product position
• Safe area

Moreover, the real product should remain aligned behind the window.

Paper Tube With Insert

An insert may use:

• EVA
• EPE
• Paperboard
• Molded pulp
• Plastic tray

If the insert includes printed paper or a branded card, provide a separate artwork file.

Push-Up Tube

Push-up paper tubes contain moving internal components.

Therefore, critical graphics should stay away from areas where movement or seams may affect visibility.

Twist-Up Tube

Twist-up packaging requires precise dimensions.

For this reason, the final dieline should be approved before artwork production begins.

Sleeve Packaging

Sleeves can be very useful for multiple SKUs.

For example, one base package may be used for five different products while each product receives a different sleeve.

As a result, brands can reduce structural complexity while maintaining product differentiation.

Printing & Finishing Options

This is where custom packaging artwork files become especially important.

Different printing and finishing processes should not be merged into one unidentified artwork layer.

CMYK Printing

CMYK is commonly used for process printing involving:

• Photography
• Gradients
• Illustrations
• Multicolor graphics

Adobe’s Illustrator print documentation instructs users to switch RGB documents to CMYK mode when preparing color separations for process printing.

However, printed color can still be influenced by the paper, ink, coating and finishing.

Therefore, do not approve critical brand colors solely from a phone or monitor.

Pantone / Spot Colors

Spot colors are useful when a brand requires a particular signature shade.

For example:

• Brand green
• Burgundy
• Navy
• Orange

Clearly identify the required Pantone or spot color in the artwork.

Do not simply write:

“Please match this green.”

In addition, request a physical proof when strict color matching is commercially important.

Hot Stamping

Hot stamping should normally be provided as a separate vector layer.

For example:

GOLD FOIL

Do not create a gold gradient in Photoshop and assume that it communicates metallic foil production.

Instead, provide a clean vector shape showing exactly where the foil should be applied.

Embossing

Embossing raises the surface.

Therefore, provide a separate vector layer showing the exact embossed area.

A simple label could be:

EMBOSS

If foil and embossing must register together, make that clear in both the artwork and production instructions.

Debossing

Debossing creates a recessed surface.

Like embossing, it should be supplied as a separate, clearly labeled vector area.

Spot UV

Spot UV creates glossy contrast over selected areas.

Therefore, create a separate layer called:

SPOT UV

Do not merge the effect into the CMYK artwork.

Matte Lamination

Full matte lamination normally applies across the entire printed surface.

Therefore, it usually does not need its own artwork layer.

Instead, specify the film in the finishing requirements.

Gloss Lamination

Gloss lamination follows the same principle.

However, if only one logo or pattern needs gloss, the process may actually be spot UV rather than full gloss lamination.

How to Prepare Custom Packaging Artwork Files

Before sending custom packaging artwork files to the factory, go through the following workflow.

Step 1: Use the Final Approved Dieline

Never design final production artwork on an early structural drawing.

If the package dimensions change, request a new dieline.

Step 2: Keep the Dieline at Actual Size

Do not resize or stretch the dieline.

A production dieline should represent the actual package dimensions.

Step 3: Add Bleed

If background colors, photographs or illustrations reach the trim edge, extend them beyond the final trim line.

Illustrator supports document bleed and printer marks through its Marks & Bleed controls.

Many commercial projects use approximately 3 mm, but the packaging supplier’s specification should always take priority.

Step 4: Respect the Safe Area

Keep important elements away from trim and fold tolerances.

These elements include:

• Logo
• Barcode
• Product name
• Ingredients
• Small text

Step 5: Prepare the Correct Print Color Mode

For process printing, prepare the file using the agreed CMYK workflow.

If Pantone colors are required, identify them separately.

Step 6: Check Fonts

Missing fonts can change text layout.

Therefore, either outline the fonts where appropriate or package the required font resources according to the agreed workflow.

Adobe Illustrator’s Package command can collect the Illustrator file together with linked graphics and eligible font resources for handoff.

Always keep an editable master version before converting text into outlines.

Step 7: Check Linked Images

One of the most common handoff problems is missing linked images.

Illustrator’s Links panel shows placed linked and embedded files, while the Package function can gather linked assets for transfer.

Before sending the project, check that every required image is included.

Step 8: Keep Logos Vector Where Possible

Vector logos produce cleaner results for:

• Printing
• Hot stamping
• Embossing
• Scaling

Avoid extracting a small logo from a website screenshot.

Step 9: Separate Special Finishing Layers

A good file structure could be:

• DIELINE
• CMYK
• PANTONE
• GOLD FOIL
• EMBOSS
• DEBOSS
• SPOT UV
• WINDOW

This makes the intended manufacturing processes obvious.

Step 10: Check Overprint

Overprint settings can change how overlapping objects reproduce.

Illustrator includes dedicated overprint and color-separation controls, so these settings should be reviewed during prepress when relevant.

Step 11: Export a Print-Ready PDF

Along with the editable file, export a high-quality PDF reference.

Illustrator supports PDF creation for print workflows, including PDF/X-related options.

The supplier can use the PDF to compare the intended layout against the editable artwork.

Step 12: Include a 3D Mockup

A 3D rendering is not the technical production file.

Nevertheless, it is very useful because it shows:

• Front orientation
• Opening direction
• Logo position
• Expected finished appearance

In other words:

Artwork tells the factory how to produce it.

Mockups tell the factory how you expect it to look.

Providing both reduces ambiguity.

Packaging Artwork Preflight Checklist

Before sending your file, check:

• Correct dieline
• Correct packaging size
• Bleed included
• Safe zone checked
• CMYK workflow confirmed
• Pantone colors identified
• Fonts supplied correctly
• Linked images included
• Logos are vector
• Image quality checked
• Barcode checked
• Text proofread
• Foil layer separated
• Embossing layer separated
• Debossing layer separated
• Spot UV layer separated
• Window position confirmed
• Dieline kept separate
• PDF exported
• Mockup supplied
• Final internal approval completed

Acrobat Pro’s Preflight tools are specifically designed to analyze PDFs for print-production problems before output.

How Artwork Affects Sampling and Production Time

Poorly prepared custom packaging artwork files can delay a packaging project before manufacturing even starts.

For example:

The supplier receives a JPG.

Then the editable artwork is requested.

Next, the AI file arrives but linked images are missing.

After that, the correct images are supplied.

However, the dieline is outdated.

Once the dieline is corrected, the designer discovers that the foil layer has not been separated.

Another revision is required.

At this point, several days may have passed—even though no mass-production machine has started.

Therefore, good artwork preparation can directly improve the efficiency of the packaging development process.

Planning Your Packaging Lead Time?

Artwork approval is only one part of the overall project.

If you are also planning sampling, production and delivery, read our Custom Paper Tube Production Time: Complete Lead Time Guide.

That guide explains how:

• Artwork approval
• Sampling
• MOQ
• Material availability
• Inserts
• Special finishing
• Multiple SKUs

can influence the complete production schedule.

Together, these articles answer two important purchasing questions:

Is my artwork ready for printing?

and

How long will production take after it is approved?

Common Artwork Mistakes

Sending Only a Screenshot

A screenshot may show the design direction, but it usually cannot provide the editable technical information required for production.

Therefore, supply editable artwork whenever possible.

Designing Before the Structure Is Final

If the dieline changes, artwork positions also change.

Consequently, finalize the packaging structure first.

Missing Linked Files

Check all linked photographs and graphics before sending the project.

Low-Resolution Logos

A logo copied from a website may look acceptable on a monitor but reproduce poorly in print.

Instead, ask for the original vector version.

Using Too Many Unidentified Layers

Clear layer names reduce communication problems.

For example:

Layer 17 Copy 2

is much less useful than:

GOLD FOIL.

Merging Foil Into CMYK

The printer needs to know what should be printed and what should be foil stamped.

Therefore, keep those processes separate.

Ignoring the Tube Seam

For cylindrical packaging, avoid placing important branding on the spiral or vertical outer-wrap seam whenever the structure makes that area visually sensitive.

Designing on Hidden Areas

Some artwork can disappear beneath:

• Lid overlap
• Glue flaps
• Inner folds
• Sleeves

Therefore, check the assembled package before approving the design.

Compliance & Sustainability

Packaging artwork can also contain regulatory or compliance information.

Depending on the product and market, this may include:

• Product name
• Ingredients
• Net contents
• Warnings
• Manufacturer information
• Batch area
• Barcode
• Recycling information

The brand, importer or responsible party should confirm the exact regulatory requirements for the destination market.

FSC

If an FSC trademark is used, its use should comply with the applicable certification and trademark-approval requirements.

Therefore, do not simply download an FSC logo and place it on packaging without confirming authorization.

Food Contact

Food-contact safety depends on the approved packaging materials and full construction, not simply the exterior graphics.

Depending on the application, buyers may request:

• Food-contact reports
• Migration reports
• Material declarations
• Ink information
• Adhesive information

BRC and IFS

BRCGS Packaging Materials and relevant IFS systems may support supplier-quality or food-packaging requirements.

However, certification references and logos should only be used appropriately.

EUDR and EPR

For applicable markets and supply chains, packaging buyers may also need to consider material due diligence and producer-responsibility requirements.

Therefore, regulatory review should happen before the final artwork is locked whenever these requirements affect printed information.

Sustainable Artwork Choices

Luxury packaging does not automatically require the maximum number of finishing processes.

For example, good typography combined with textured paper and one small foil logo may create a stronger premium effect than:

• Full lamination
• Large foil areas
• Several metallic colors
• Multiple UV coatings

Therefore, good design can sometimes reduce production complexity as well as material use.

How to Customize

A smooth custom packaging artwork files workflow starts before the designer opens Illustrator.

Step 1: Send Product Information

Provide:

• Product name
• Product size
• Product weight
• Photos
• Physical sample if possible

Step 2: Choose the Packaging Structure

Select:

• Paper tube
• Rigid box
• Folding carton
• Drawer box
• Sleeve box
• Window packaging
• Telescopic packaging

Step 3: Confirm the Size

Approve final dimensions.

Do not finalize the artwork before this step.

Step 4: Choose the Material

Select:

• Kraft paper
• Art paper
• Specialty paper
• Food-grade material
• Foil liner

Step 5: Confirm the Insert

Options may include:

• No insert
• Paperboard
• EVA
• EPE
• Molded pulp
• Plastic tray

Step 6: Confirm Printing

Choose:

• CMYK
• Pantone
• One-color printing
• Combination printing

Step 7: Select Finishing

Possible choices include:

• Hot stamping
• Embossing
• Debossing
• Spot UV
• Matte lamination
• Gloss lamination
• Soft-touch lamination
• Anti-scratch lamination

Step 8: Request the Final Dieline

Once the structure and size are approved, request the final production dieline.

Step 9: Prepare the Artwork

Supply:

• AI
• Editable PDF
• EPS where appropriate

Also provide a PDF reference and, ideally, a 3D mockup.

Step 10: Confirm MOQ

Provide realistic quantities.

For example:

• 500 pcs
• 1,000 pcs
• 3,000 pcs
• 5,000 pcs
• 10,000 pcs

Step 11: Confirm Lead Time

Share the required:

• Launch date
• Factory completion date
• Delivery date
• Destination

Step 12: Approve the Sample

Finally, check:

• Size
• Structure
• Color
• Artwork
• Foil
• Embossing
• Insert fit
• Product positioning

Once these points are approved, mass production can proceed more efficiently.

Related Products: Custom Paper Tubes / Food Packaging / Cosmetic Packaging

Why Choose Pack Packaging?

Pack Packaging supports custom paper tubes and paper boxes from structural development through mass production.

Our manufacturing facility covers 20,000㎡, including a 2,000㎡ food-grade workshop. In addition, monthly paper tube production capacity exceeds 10,000,000 pieces.

Our 20+ member design team can assist with:

• Dieline development
• Product fitting
• Artwork checking
• Material selection
• Insert design
• CMYK printing
• Pantone printing
• Hot stamping
• Embossing
• Spot UV
• Sampling
• Production preparation

When customers send custom packaging artwork files, our team reviews the graphic layout together with the actual structure rather than treating the design as an isolated image.

Our OEM and ODM capabilities include:

• Custom sizes
• Paper tubes
• Rigid boxes
• Folding cartons
• Drawer boxes
• Sleeve boxes
• Kraft paper
• Art paper
• Specialty paper
• Food-grade materials
• Cardboard inserts
• EVA inserts
• EPE inserts
• Molded-pulp inserts
• CMYK
• Pantone
• Hot stamping
• Embossing
• Debossing
• Spot UV
• Matte lamination
• Gloss lamination
• Soft-touch lamination
• Anti-scratch lamination
• Structural samples
• Printed samples
• Quality inspection
• Export packing

Depending on the final materials, product application and destination market, supporting documentation may include FSC-related documentation, food-contact reports, BRC-related information, IFS-related information, RoHS 2.0, REACH-SVHC and EPR support.

The exact documentation should always be confirmed against the final approved specification.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What file format should I send for packaging printing?

Editable AI, PDF or EPS files are commonly useful for packaging production. A PDF reference and 3D mockup can also make the intended finished appearance clearer.

2. Should packaging artwork be CMYK or RGB?

For standard process printing, artwork is typically prepared in a CMYK print workflow. Illustrator provides CMYK document mode and separation controls specifically for print output.

3. Do I need bleed?

If artwork reaches the trim edge, bleed is generally required. Illustrator supports defined bleed areas and bleed marks, while the exact amount should follow the packaging manufacturer’s specification.

4. Do fonts need to be outlined?

Fonts can be outlined where appropriate or supplied through an agreed packaged workflow. Always keep an editable master file because outlined text is no longer normal editable type.

5. Do foil, embossing and spot UV need separate layers?

Yes. Clearly separated vector layers make it much easier for the prepress and production teams to identify each special process.

6. Can I send a Canva, JPG or PNG file?

You can use them as references. However, the packaging supplier may still require editable production artwork containing dielines, vector logos and special-finishing information.

7. Why does the printed color look different from my monitor?

Screen display and physical printing use different output processes, while paper, ink, coatings and lighting can also influence the final appearance.

Therefore, physical approval is recommended when exact brand color matters.

8. Can you help check my artwork before printing?

Yes. The design and prepress team can review the artwork against the approved structure and identify potential production issues before sampling.

Explore More Custom Packaging Solutions

Looking for more packaging options? Discover our complete range of custom packaging products designed for different industries and applications.

Folding Boxes – Lightweight and fully customizable cartons for retail packaging.

Rigid Boxes – Premium rigid gift boxes for luxury brands.

Corrugated Boxes – Durable shipping and e-commerce packaging solutions.

Child Resistant Boxes – Secure packaging for regulated products.

Accessories – Custom inserts, tissue paper, ribbons, labels, and more.

Paper Tubes – Explore our dedicated collection of custom paper tube packaging for tea, coffee, cosmetics, candles, spirits, and other premium products on our specialized website.

Need custom packaging? Contact our team today for a free quote and expert consultation.