Setting up your artwork correctly helps ensure your custom labels print cleanly, apply smoothly, and showcase your brand at its best. Follow these guidelines before uploading your files. 

Choose the Right Label Size

Start by measuring your product to determine the best label size. If you're labeling bottles or containers with curved or beveled edges, keep the label within the flat application area to help prevent bubbling or edge lift. 

Keep Important Artwork Inside the Safety Margin 

The safety margin (or inset) keeps text, logos, and other important design elements away from the cut line.

• Labels larger than 1" × 1": 1/8" inset (standard) or optional 1/16" narrow inset
• Labels smaller than 1" × 1": 1/8" inset required

We'll automatically proof your artwork with a 1/8" inset unless you request a narrow inset in the “Special Instructions” during checkout.

Learn more about Safety Margins here.

Add Bleed 

Bleed extends your background beyond the final cut line, preventing unwanted white edges if slight cutting variations occur.

• Extend all background colors, images, and patterns 1/8" beyond the trim line.
• If bleed is missing, our Art Team may be able to add it during proofing, but including it in your artwork provides the best results.

Learn more about Bleed here.

Use Print-Ready Files 

For the highest print quality:

• Design in CMYK color mode.
• Use 300 DPI resolution for raster images or submit a vector file. 
• Outline all fonts to prevent substitutions. 

• Embed linked images if you're using Adobe Illustrator so all graphics are included with your file. 

  After linking your images, go to the Window menu and select Links.

In the Links panel, select the images you want to embed. Click the menu icon and choose Embed. Once embedded, all selected images will be included directly in your file. 

Note: If your artwork is submitted in RGB, we'll convert it to CMYK during proofing, but slight color shifts may occur.

Choose Readable Fonts 

We recommend using text 5 pt or larger for readability. Some industries have additional labeling requirements, so be sure to verify any minimum font or icon size standards that apply to your product.

Learn How To Outline Font in Adobe Illustrator. 

Save a Reusable Template 

If you plan to create multiple product variations, save a template of your finished design. This makes it easy to update product details, ingredients, or branding while maintaining a consistent look across your product line. 

Ready to Print?

Our Art Team reviews every file before production and provides a free digital proof to ensure your labels are ready to print. Taking a few extra minutes to prepare your artwork helps ensure a smooth proofing process and professional-looking labels every time.

Still have questions? Reach out to our Customer Service Team!