Artwork Standards – Custom Boxes Lab
8 Steps of Preparing Artwork Files
File Formats
Submit files in Adobe Illustrator (AI) or PDF formats
Color Profiles
Ensure all colors are in the CMYK color space.
Text
Outline all text objects and size them appropriately
Additional Printing
Prepare separate layers for any additional printing elements
Make An Impact Through Striking Artwork
File Formats
At Custom Boxes Lab, we accept a variety of file formats to ensure a seamless and hassle-free customization process for your packaging needs. You can submit your design files in the following formats:
- Adobe Illustrator (AI)
- Adobe Photoshop (PSD)
- Adobe InDesign (INDD)
- Encapsulated PostScript (EPS)
- Portable Document Format (PDF)
- Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG)
- CorelDRAW (CDR)
- High-resolution JPEG (JPEG)
- TIFF (TIFF)
- PNG (PNG)
These file formats cover a wide range of design software and ensure that we can work with your artwork effectively. If you have any specific questions or need assistance with file preparation, our experienced design team is always here to help you create the perfect custom packaging for your products.
To save a print-ready PDF in Adobe Illustrator:
- Open your file.
- Check and set CMYK color mode.
- Define bleed if needed.
- Outline fonts.
- Embed high-resolution images.
- Adjust overprint settings.
- Save as PDF with High-Quality Print” preset.
- Enable crop marks and bleed settings.
- Confirm color conversion settings.
- Run a preflight check for issues.
For personalized help, contact BoxesGen.
At BoxesGen, we understand that not everyone has access to Adobe Illustrator for their packaging design needs. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! You can still create stunning custom packaging designs with our help. Our expert design team can work closely with you to bring your ideas to life, even if you don’t have Adobe Illustrator. We accept a wide range of file formats, so whether you have a sketch, a rough concept, or an image, we can work with it. Just contact us, and we will guide you through the design process, ensuring your packaging is exactly as you envision it, without the need for any specific software.
Color Profiles
RGB and CMYK
Certainly! Converting your document to CMYK color mode is an essential step, especially when preparing artwork for printing. Follow these steps to make the conversion:
- Open Your Document: Begin by opening the document in the graphic design software you’re using. Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign are common choices for this purpose.
- Select the Image: If your document contains images, make sure to select and open them individually, as they may need separate adjustments.
- Check Color Mode: In most graphic design software, you can check the color mode of your document by going to the “Image” or “File” menu and selecting “Mode.” Ensure it’s currently set to “RGB” or whichever mode it’s in.
- Convert to CMYK: To convert to CMYK, go back to the “Image” or “File” menu and choose “Mode” again. This time, select “CMYK Color” or “Convert to CMYK.” The software will handle the conversion for you.
- Review and Adjust: After converting, closely examine your document. Colors may appear differently in CMYK mode than in RGB, so make any necessary adjustments to ensure the desired look is maintained.
- Save Your Document: Once you’re satisfied with the conversion and adjustments, save your document. It’s essential to save it in a format that supports CMYK color, such as TIFF, PSD, or PDF.
- Check Printing Guidelines: Before sending your document for printing, double-check the printer’s guidelines or specifications to ensure your document meets its requirements..
By following these steps, you’ll have successfully changed your document to CMYK color mode, making it print-ready for vibrant and accurate color reproduction. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us at BoxesGen. We’re here to help you with all your packaging and design needs!
At Custom Boxes Lab, we understand the importance of making informed choices when it comes to your packaging design and printing. Opting for 100% K value, or using pure black ink, in your printing can offer several advantages:
Enhanced Contrast and Clarity: Printing in 100% K value ensures deep and rich black tones, which can significantly improve the contrast and clarity of your design. This makes your text and graphics stand out, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your packaging.
Consistency: Using 100% K value helps maintain color consistency throughout the printing process. This is particularly important for branding and ensuring that your packaging looks the same across various print runs.
Cost-Efficiency: Pure black ink is often more cost-effective than using a combination of CMYK inks to create black. This can help reduce printing costs while achieving the desired results.
Reduced Ink Saturation: Pure black ink can minimize ink saturation, which is beneficial for fine details and small text. It prevents bleeding or smudging, resulting in a cleaner and more professional look.
Environmentally Friendly: Using less ink can be more environmentally friendly as it reduces ink consumption, which can be a significant factor in the environmental impact of printing.
Quick Drying: Pure black ink tends to dry faster than a combination of inks. This can speed up the printing process, reducing production time.
Printing in 100% K value offers improved visual aesthetics, consistency, cost-efficiency, and environmental benefits. It’s a choice that can contribute to creating high-quality packaging that leaves a lasting impression on your customers while being mindful of your budget and the environment. At Custom Boxes Lab, we can help you make the right decisions for your packaging needs, including the choice of ink and printing techniques.
Text Profiles
Explore Our Additional Printing Options
PMS Colors
Spot UV
Inkjet Printing
Varnish
Lines
Images
Graphics
Our commitment to delivering top-notch custom packaging solutions in the USA is driven by the belief that eye-catching graphics are essential for successful branding and product presentation. Whether it’s designing custom logos, incorporating vibrant colors, or creating intricate patterns, our team of skilled designers ensures that every packaging box tells a unique story. Graphics not only enhance the visual appeal of your product but also convey important information about its contents. We take pride in our ability to transform your vision into captivating packaging, making your products stand out on the shelves and leaving a lasting impression on customers. With Custom Boxes Lab, your packaging becomes a canvas for creativity, branding, and effective communication.