File Preparation Guidelines
IN-HOUSE ART DESIGN FACILITIES
Our graphics department will pre-flight your artwork and make adjustments before production begins. Following this guide should eliminate most common problems. We encourage our clients to use our in house design team in order to avoid changes after the artwork has been designed. If you already have your own artist, please have them read over the following technical details before submitting original label artwork.
ELECTRONIC FILE GUIDELINES:
- Adobe Illustrator is preferred for setting up art files. We accept other software types (ex. InDesign and Photoshop) but may require conversion for our output software. Depending on the extent of the work, an artwork change will apply.
- The best way to save your art from Illustrator is File > Package.
- Print quality PDF files exported from Illustrator are accepted. Check that fonts are outlined.
- Always outline text to eliminate font issues. When this is not possible, include all supporting fonts.
- Set your document colour mode to CMYK and not RGB.
- Ensure files contain only label art and nothing more. Delete unused colours and extra or hidden layers and objects.
- Supporting images must be minimum 300 dpi, at print size. Include supporting images (even if embedded) in case editing is necessary.
- Do not trap files, we will trap to our own specifications.
- Please make sure art contains correct Pantone colour names PMS ###. Special Colours will require a sample sent to us for colour matching.
- Bleed: A minumum of .0625" bleed beyond the die line.
Labels to be butt-cut should not be designed with a background bleed. - Type and artwork safety: A minimum of .0625" from inside edge of the die line. Please take into consideration the corner radius of the die.
FLEXOGRAPHIC ART REQUIREMENTS:
- Avoid setting small text in Photoshop. Photoshop should be used only for CMYK images.
- 4 pt. minimum for positive type, 6 pt. minimum for reverse type.
- White text over 4 color process background should include black or spot colour outline to keep the type edges clean and increase legibility.
- Line Weight: Minimum 1/2 point (0.007") and 1 point (0.014") for reverse rules.
- Barcodes: Must maintain a minimum of 0.25" quiet zone at either side. Bar Width Reduction is -0.0025" to compensate for press gain. Alternatively, allow the required space for the UPC and note the barcode number. We can generate one for you. Scan reports can be provided on request.
- Gradients / Shadows: May range from 100% to 0%. Going to 0% will be featured with our hybrid screening.
HOW TO SEND
By email
If your files are small enough, then put all your files into a single archive attached to an email.
Online file transfer or sharing site of your choosing.
Through our FTP
You will need an FTP Software as well as a USER NAME and PASSWORD in order to submit your files. Please request this information by contacting us.
Copyright 2024, Perflex Label Inc.