How to Prepare Artwork for Custom Packaging
A practical preparation checklist for packaging artwork, references, dimensions, color intent, and structure approval before custom production.
Prepare final packaging artwork only after the project structure is sufficiently defined and an approved dieline is available. Send editable source files, linked assets, fonts or outlined text as requested, brand-color references, finish callouts, required copy, and a clear version. Open details should be labelled for review.
Confirm the structure
Artwork should follow the reviewed packaging format instead of forcing a generic template.
Prepare production layers
Separate artwork, structural lines, and finish callouts using the project file requirements.
Check every panel
Review copy, orientation, codes, color intent, version, and production notes.
Confirm the structure first
Share the product type, finished dimensions, quantity, and intended use before final artwork is locked. UPG coordinates the applicable dieline after the structure is sufficiently defined.
Send what you already have
Useful starting files include:
- Brand artwork and logos
- Packaging references or mockups
- Product dimensions
- Existing packaging files
- Notes for foil, spot UV, embossing, debossing, windows, inserts, zippers, valves, or other selected features
Use the approved dieline
Final artwork should be prepared on the approved project dieline. Keep structural lines and feature areas clear so the final review can match the intended pack.
Keep production callouts separate
Identify spot colors, white ink, foil, spot UV, embossing, debossing, windows, and other production layers clearly where they apply. Use consistent names across the artwork, proof, and written specification.
For RGB, CMYK, Pantone/PMS, and CMYK-plus-spot choices, use the CMYK vs. Pantone packaging printing guide before finalizing color callouts. For dimensions and structure orientation, use the product measurement guide before placing artwork on the approved dieline.
Check every panel before approval
- Product name, claims, ingredients, warnings, and required market copy supplied by the buyer
- Barcode, QR code, batch, date, and variable-data areas where applicable
- Opening direction and panel orientation
- Correct language, SKU, and artwork version
- Color intent and physical reference where one exists
- Finish and structural callouts
Does a small text change count as another design?
Yes. A changed word, punctuation mark, SKU, language version, barcode, or other artwork change creates a different artwork version, even when the dieline, size, and shape stay the same. List every artwork version and the quantity required for each one when requesting a quote.
The same dieline does not automatically mean one print setup. In offset production, a changed version can change color separations, and affected plates may need revision. Setup or run planning may also change. UPG confirms the exact production route, run plan, and written price after reviewing the artwork versions, quantities, and specification.
Ask before rebuilding files
If artwork is still in progress, state that in your project enquiry. It is better to confirm the structure before spending time adapting a design to the wrong template.
