To get the best print results, your artwork should match the size and shape you order. When your file proportions don't match your selected dimensions, it can delay proofing and may require cropping, resizing, or a new artwork file.
Setting up your artwork correctly helps ensure your stickers or labels print exactly as you expect.
What Happens If the Size Doesn't Match?
If your artwork is larger or smaller but has the same proportions, we'll resize it to fit your order.
If your artwork has a different aspect ratio—for example, a square design for a rectangular sticker—we'll contact you to determine the best solution. Depending on your design, we may recommend:
- Cropping the artwork
- Adjusting the order size
- Uploading a new file with the correct proportions.
If we don't receive confirmation, we may resize the order to match the artwork.
Tips to Match Your Artwork Size and Shape Correctly
Before uploading your file:
- Build your artwork at the same proportions as your ordered size.
- Add 1/8" bleed beyond the final cut size if your design extends to the edge.
- Keep important text and graphics inside the safe area (1/8” from the cut line) to prevent trimming.
- Use a minimum resolution of 300 DPI for sharp, high-quality printing.
Learn more about artwork set up here.
Example: Matching Artwork for a 3" x 2" Sticker
- Your final sticker size is 3" wide by 2" tall.
- Design your artwork on a canvas sized 3.25" x 2.25" (including 1/8" bleed on each side).
- Keep all important content within a safe area of 2.875" x 1.875" to avoid trimming. (1/8" safety area)
- Ensure your artwork’s proportions are rectangular, not square.
Common Sizing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake |
Result |
How To Fix It |
| Uploading a square design for a rectangular sticker | Design gets stretched or cropped | Adjust canvas to match ordered size and proportions |
| Artwork smaller than order size without scaling | Sticker looks pixelated or blurry | Create or resize artwork to at least the ordered dimensions at 300 dpi |
| Not including bleed in artwork size | White border added to artwork | Add 1/8" bleed on all sides of your artwork |
| Didn't account for insets | Text too close to edge and cut off | Move all important text and design elements at least 1/16" in from the cutline |
Need Help?
Our Art Team reviews every file before printing and provides a free digital proof. If you're unsure about sizing, upload your artwork and include any questions or instructions in the “Special Instructions” box. We'll help make sure your design fits your order correctly before production begins.
By matching your artwork's size and proportions to your order, you'll avoid unwanted cropping, distortion, and print quality issues—helping your stickers or labels look exactly as intended.
You can also reach out to our Customer Service Team with any questions!
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