How do I design packaging artwork?

Designing packaging artwork is a multi-step process that combines creative design with precise technical requirements. Here's a complete guide:

Step 1: Get the dieline
Request the structural dieline (template) from your packaging supplier. This is the blueprint that shows where to place your artwork.

Step 2: Set up your document correctly

• Software: Adobe Illustrator (preferred), Photoshop, or Affinity Designer


• Colour mode: CMYK (not RGB)


• Resolution: 300 DPI minimum for raster images


• Include dieline layer as a guide

Step 3: Design principles for packaging


• Hierarchy: Main message visible at a glance (product name, brand)


• Readability: Text minimum 6pt, avoid script fonts at small sizes


• Bleed: Artwork must extend 3mm beyond cut lines


• Safe zone: Keep critical content 5mm inside cut lines


• Panel continuity: Background patterns/colours must align at fold lines

Step 4: Technical requirements


• Convert all fonts to outlines/curves (prevents font substitution)


• Embed or link all images


• Remove hidden layers and objects


• Ensure rich black for large black areas: C:60 M:40 Y:40 K:100


• Standard black for small text: K:100 only

Step 5: Prepare for export


• Export as PDF/X-1a or PDF/X-4


• Include 3mm bleed and printer marks


• Turn off the dieline layer in your export

Common mistakes to avoid:


• Designing in RGB (colours will shift when converted for print)


• Using thin fonts at small sizes (will become illegible when printed)


• Ignoring the fold lines (design elements cut mid-panel look broken)


• Low-resolution logos (always use vector AI/EPS logos for print)