Sticker Sheet Artwork Requirements

 

Creating artwork for sticker sheets is easy once you understand some basic rules. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to follow when preparing your artwork for print.

 

1. Digital Image Types: Vector vs. Raster

Vector Images: Vector images use shapes, paths, and text, giving them sharp, clean edges. They can be scaled up or down without losing quality. Typical file types are `.ai`, `.eps`, `.svg`, and `.pdf`.

Best for: Logos, shapes, and text-based designs.

Created with: Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw.

Raster Images: Raster images are made of tiny coloured dots called pixels. These images lose quality if resized. File types include `.jpg`, `.tif`, `.png`, `.psd`, `.pdf`, and `.eps`.

Best for: Photos or complex images.

Created with: Adobe Photoshop, PaintShop Pro.

 

 2. File Format

Preferred Format: PDF (fonts are embedded). If submitting multiple designs, please save each design as a separate PDF.

Other Accepted Formats: AI, EPS, PSD, JPG, TIFF. (Fonts must be connected to paths/outlines).

 Not Accepted:
Word, PowerPoint, or Excel. If you need to use these, export as PDF first, but note the quality may not be high enough for print.

 

3. Colours

CMYK Format: For print accuracy always set your artwork colours in CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) for print accuracy.

RGB Colours: These are suited for screen, not print. RGB images will convert to CMYK, which can sometimes change the colours in unexpected ways.

Spot Colours: If your design uses Pantone colours, be aware these will also convert to CMYK for digital printing.

 

4. Fonts & Text

Embed or Outline Fonts: To ensure fonts print correctly, either embed them in your PDF or convert them to outlines (paths).

Tip: Keep an original version with editable text in case you need to make changes later.

 

 5. Avoid Overprinting

Do Not Use Overprints: Overprints can cause colour issues that might not show up on screen but will appear on the printed sticker.

 

6. Black Elements

Use 100% Black (K): For black areas, set the K (black) to 100%. In digital printing, we may add some extra colour for depth, but you don't need to do this yourself.

 

7. Shaped Cuts

Cut Lines: If your stickers need a custom cut shape, supply the cut line as a vector file with as few nodes (points) as possible. Please send the cut line as a separate file and include instructions or a visual of where it should go.

 

8. Bleed and Safety Margins

Bleed: For artwork that reaches the edge of your stickers, include a 3mm bleed (extra space around the edges).

  - Small prints (up to A4): 2mm bleed is OK.

  - Large prints: At least 5mm bleed.

Safe Zone: Keep important details away from the edges or areas affected by holes, cuts, or other finishing needs.

 

9. Scale

Design at Actual Size: Try to create your artwork at the actual size you want it printed.

 

10. Resolution for Raster Images

Recommended DPI:

  - 300 dpi at print size.

 

11. File Naming and Organization

Descriptive Names: Use clear, short, descriptive file names to avoid mix-ups, especially if sending multiple files.

By following these guidelines, your sticker sheets will print clearly, with vibrant colours and perfect shapes!