How to setup your file
For the best print quality, we recommend submitted files in AI (Adobe Illustrator) or PDF Format. For all custom shapes, a separate file of the trim-line on its own must be provided.
Artwork
Artwork Type
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AI / EPS (Vector)
Delivers sharp, high-definition printing results. Resolution remains consistent at any scale – ideal for large-format projects where clarity is critical.
(Note: This applies to vector-based files like AI/PDF. Raster images [e.g., JPEG/TIFF] may lose quality when enlarged.)
JPEG (Image)
Delivers sharp, high-definition results only at intended sizes. Resolution depends on source quality – enlarging the image may cause pixelation or blurring.
Optional add-on tip:
To minimize quality loss, always submit JPEGs at 300+ DPI and avoid stretching beyond their original dimensions.
(Note: JPEG is a raster format. For large-format prints requiring scaling, use vector files [AI/PDF] to ensure flawless clarity.)
Image Resolution
For professional print quality, use images with a resolution of 300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher.
Why This Matters:
Web images (72 DPI) are optimized for screens, not printing.
Low-resolution artwork (below 300 DPI) will appear blurred, jagged, or pixelated when printed, especially at larger sizes.
Key Guidelines:
Avoid upscaling: Enlarging low-res images (e.g., stretching 72 DPI to 300 DPI) degrades quality further.
Check source files: Ensure photos, logos, and graphics are created or scanned at 300 DPI from the start.
(Note: DPI settings cannot be increased after artwork is created. Always start with high-resolution files!)
Colour Mode
Always design in CMYK colour mode for accurate print results.
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black):
The standard for physical printing – colors are mixed using ink/pigments.
RGB (Red, Green, Blue):
Designed for digital screens (monitors, cameras, TVs) – not suitable for printing.
Why This Matters:
RGB files converted to CMYK may shift colors unexpectedly (e.g., bright neon tones becoming muted). Designing directly in CMYK ensures your stickers/labels match your intended colors.
Before Submitting:
- Confirm your design software is set to CMYK mode.
- Avoid using RGB-only colors (e.g., vibrant greens/blues common in digital designs).
(Note: If your original file is in RGB, convert it to CMYK and adjust colors manually for print accuracy.)
RGB
CMYK
Make Sure Your Text Are Showing Correctly
Font Outline
Always convert text to outlines when using Adobe Illustrator. For Photoshop, ensure text layers are rasterized or embedded.
Why This Matters:
- Un-outlined fonts may be substituted or display incorrectly if the font isn’t installed on our systems.
- Outlining converts text to vector paths, preserving your design’s integrity regardless of font availability.
Steps to Ensure Accuracy:
- Adobe Illustrator: Select all text > Type > Create Outlines (Shift+Cmd/Ctrl+O).
- Adobe Photoshop: Rasterize text layers or embed font files (Layer > Rasterize > Type).
- Verify: Zoom in to confirm text maintains crisp edges after outlining.
Important:
- Save a copy with editable text before outlining, as this process is irreversible.
- Avoid outlined text for editable templates (e.g., future date changes).
How to Convert Text to Outline in Adobe Ilustrator
Step 1: Open Your File
- Open your design in Adobe Illustrator.
Step 2: Select Text
- Click the text you want to outline using the Selection Tool (V).
- For multiple text boxes: Hold Shift while clicking each text object.
Step 3: Create Outlines
Windows:
Right-click the text > Create Outlines (or press Shift + Ctrl + O). Alternative: Go to Type > Create Outlines in the top menu.
macOS:
Right-click the text > Create Outlines (or press Shift + Command + O). Alternative: Go to Type > Create Outlines in the top menu.
Step 4: Verify Outlines
Zoom in to check that text edges are smooth (no editable text cursor). Outlined text will show anchor points/paths instead of a text box.
Important Notes
Save a Backup: Always save a copy with editable text before outlining. Irreversible: Outlined text cannot be edited (font, size, spelling).
For Photoshop: Use rasterized text (Layer > Rasterize > Type) instead of outlines.
Troubleshooting:
If the shortcut doesn’t work, check for locked layers or grouped objects. Missing fonts? Outlining prevents substitution errors!
Font Size & Strokes
Ensure text and design elements remain legible and visible when printed.
Minimum Requirements:
Font Size:
Use 4pt or larger for all text.
Why: Smaller text may appear crushed, blurry, or unreadable after printing.
Stroke/Line Thickness:
Set strokes to 0.25pt or thicker.
Why: Thin lines or details below 0.25pt may vanish or break up during printing.
Recommended Combinations:
Safe for Printing:
Font size ≥4pt + Stroke ≥0.25pt
(Example: 5pt text with 0.3pt outlines)
Avoid:
Font size <4pt + Stroke <0.25pt
(Example: 3pt text with 0.1pt lines – risks illegibility)
Pro Tips:
Test readability by zooming out to 50% – if text/details become unclear, increase size/thickness.
For intricate designs, use 0.5pt+ strokes to ensure crisp results.
Avoid ultra-thin serifs or decorative flourishes below 0.25pt.
Artwork Orientation
Step 1: Background Bleed
Extend solid colors, patterns, or gradients 0.08" beyond the Trim Line to accommodate cutting shifts. Example: For a 2" x 2" sticker, design your background to cover 2.16" x 2.16".
Step 2: Trim Line
This is the final size/shape of your sticker. Anything outside this line will be cut off.
Step 3: Inside Safety Bleed
Keep text, logos, and critical details inside this zone (at least 0.08" away from the Trim Line) to prevent accidental cropping.
Extend solid colors, patterns, or gradients 0.08" beyond the Trim Line to accommodate cutting shifts. Example: For a 2" x 2" sticker, design your background to cover 2.16" x 2.16".
This is the final size/shape of your sticker. Anything outside this line will be cut off.
Keep text, logos, and critical details inside this zone (at least 0.08" away from the Trim Line) to prevent accidental cropping.
Cutting Movement & Border Design
A cutting shift of 0.04–0.08" may occur due to mechanical tolerances during production.
Key Takeaways:
- Borderless designs minimize visibility of cutting variations.
- Bleed setup is critical for seamless edge-to-edge artwork.
- Test visibility: Zoom out to 25% – if borders look uneven, redesign without them.
(Note: All cutting shifts within 0.08" are standard and not considered defects.)
Design with Border
Avoid borders near the trim line.
Example: A 0.1" border may appear visibly misaligned after cutting.
Cutting Movement Effects with Border
Even minor shifts will create uneven edges.
Design without Border (Recommended)
Extend backgrounds to the bleed edge (0.08" beyond trim line) and avoid borders entirely.
Result: Cutting shifts are less noticeable, ensuring a clean, professional finish.
Cutting Movement Effects without Border