Use the correct template
Confirm the box structure and dimensions first, then place the final artwork on the supplied dieline.
PACKAGING ARTWORK & SAMPLE APPROVAL
Make the creative work production-ready.
Packaging artwork needs to do more than look right on screen. It needs to match the approved structure, show each finish clearly and give everyone a shared reference before the order moves into production.
Artwork review sheet
CutCreaseSafe areaFoil / finish
FOUR CHECKS BEFORE YOU APPROVE
Good artwork is clear in the file and clear on the finished box.
These are starting checks, not a substitute for a project-specific dieline or production specification. The structure, material and finishing route determine the final requirements.
Keep vital content safe
Keep text, logos and barcodes away from cut and crease areas; extend background artwork as required by the approved template.
Separate special finishes
Foil, embossing, debossing and spot UV need separate, clearly named artwork layers or instructions.
Approve the whole system
Review not only the graphic file, but also the structure, material, insert and visible surface finish in the relevant sample.
Start from the approved box direction
Box style, size, opening direction, product fit and insert requirements affect the final dieline. Avoid treating a visual mock-up as the final production template.
- Confirm product dimensions
- Confirm inside and outside orientation
- Identify insert and accessory space
Keep the structural layer intact
The dieline is the production blueprint for cutting and creasing. Keep it separate from the artwork so the cut, fold and glue information remains visible for review.
- Do not scale an approved dieline
- Do not merge structural and art layers
- Mark inside / outside clearly
Prepare colour, images and type for review
Discuss the relevant colour route, image resolution and text treatment for the print method. A review PDF is useful, but editable source artwork may also be needed for prepress.
- Confirm colour expectations
- Embed or supply linked imagery
- Outline or package fonts as agreed
Show every finish as a separate instruction
Special processes need an unambiguous location. A separate named layer or a clear specification helps distinguish foil, embossing, debossing, spot UV and other details from the base print.
- Mark foil areas
- Mark raised or recessed areas
- Confirm finish position on the sample
Review the object, not only the screen
A physical sample can reveal fit, opening, material feel, foil contrast and how artwork travels across panels. Record changes before the next version or production release.
- Review product fit
- Review appearance and handling
- Confirm the approved reference version
WHAT A USEFUL APPROVAL RECORD CONTAINS
One agreed version. Fewer avoidable revisions.
For a custom project, a strong approval record connects the visual file with the physical packaging choices. It helps both sides identify what is approved and what still needs discussion.
- 01Project identificationBox style, size, product, quantity and the reference version or date.
- 02Artwork directionInside/outside panels, copy, logos, colour direction and any barcode or regulatory content supplied by the brand.
- 03Material and finish routePaper or board direction, lamination, foil, embossing, spot UV and other visible choices.
- 04Sample observationsFit, structure, opening, insert and appearance notes—plus any agreed changes before the next step.
A USEFUL RULE OF THUMB
Keep important brand elements inside the safe area. Let non-critical backgrounds carry the bleed.
Cutting and creasing have practical tolerances. The final project template will show the relevant cut, crease, bleed and safe zones. If a logo, fine rule or colour transition sits exactly on an edge, flag it during review so the risk can be assessed before sampling.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Before you send the file.
Share what you have, even if it is early. We can help establish the most useful next document or sample step for the packaging route.
- Should I make final artwork before receiving a dieline?
- It is best to establish the packaging structure and dimensions first, then apply final artwork to the supplied dieline. This helps avoid artwork being placed on the wrong panel, fold or glue area.
- What files are useful for an artwork review?
- Editable vector artwork and a review PDF are usually useful starting points. The required format and prepress settings should be confirmed for the specific project and printing route.
- Why should foil, embossing or spot UV be separated from the main artwork?
- A separate, clearly named layer helps show exactly where a finishing process is intended. This makes artwork review and production communication clearer.
- What should I check on a packaging sample?
- Review product fit, finished dimensions, opening and removal experience, material feel, print direction, visible finishes and the final version of artwork. The relevant checks depend on the product and packaging type.
NEED A PACKAGING REVIEW?
Send the artwork, the product—or simply the idea.
We can discuss the suitable structure, materials, insert direction and the information needed before a physical sample or production quote is prepared.