How To Add Cutlines to My Artwork

Lauren
Lauren
  • Updated

Cutlines tell our lasers exactly where to cut your stickers or labels, ensuring your finished product matches your intended shape.

Don't worry if you don't know how to create cutlines—our Art Team can do it for you. Simply upload your artwork, and we'll create cutlines based on the shape you selected. For custom shapes, we'll follow the outline of your design unless you provide your own cutline.

Create a Separate Layer for Cutlines

Start by creating a new layer specifically for your cutlines. This keeps your cutline separate from the rest of your design and makes it easy for our team to spot.

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  • In your design program (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, etc), create a new layer and name it "Cutline."
  • Place it above your artwork layer.

Keep this layer distinct to make sure the cutlines don't accidentally print along with your artwork.

Use 100% Magenta for Cutlines

To clearly indicate the cut path, cutlines should be set to 100% magenta—this is our standard for identifying cutlines in your design. 

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  • Set your color to Magenta at 100%.
  • Set the stroke to 0.5 pt—this will make the cutlines visible without overpowering the design.

Submit a Layered File

Once you’ve set up the cutlines, save and submit your artwork as a layered file (PDF, AI, or PSD) so we can see the cutlines without printing them.

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Use the Special Instructions Box 

If you have specific cutting preferences, include them in the “Special Instructions” box during checkout. Helpful notes include:

  • Use the supplied cutline exactly as provided.
  • Round corners to a specific radius (for example, 1/8").
  • Smooth or adjust sharp corners.
  • Any custom cutting requirements.

These details help us proof your artwork exactly as you intended.

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Do I Need to Add Cutlines? 

No. Most orders don't require customer-supplied cutlines. Our Art Team creates them for you at no additional cost.

Adding your own cutlines is recommended if you have:

  • A custom shape that doesn't follow your artwork.
  • Tapered or uniquely shaped labels for specific containers.
  • Precise corner radius or cutting requirements.
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If you don't provide cutlines, we'll create them based on your selected product and artwork while ensuring the best possible finished result.

Have questions? Our Customer Service Team is happy to help prepare your artwork for print.

Ready to get started? Upload your artwork and place your order today.

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