When it comes to printing your design on packaging like boxes, bags, or garment covers, properly prepared artwork is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know to ensure your files are set up correctly, from file types to colour accuracy.
A vector file is a type of image made from paths and points, not pixels. This means it can be scaled up or down without any loss of quality – a vector ensures the design stays crisp and clear.
Raster images, like JPEGs or PNGs, are made of pixels. These can appear blurry or pixelated when resized, so they’re not suitable for most packaging print applications unless used for photography at high resolution.
If you’re sending your logo or brand assets, always provide them as a vector file.
Here are the file types we accept and recommend:
.AI — Adobe Illustrator file, ideal for editing and artwork setup
.EPS — A flexible file type used across many design programs
.PDF — Print-ready and widely used, as long as the original artwork is vector-based
.SVG — Used mainly for web graphics, but can work if the content was created as vector
Please note that saving a JPEG or PNG as a PDF does not make it a vector file. The original artwork must be created as a vector from the start.
PMS stands for Pantone Matching System. These are standardised colours used in the printing industry to ensure consistency. Each Pantone colour has a unique code, making it easy to reproduce the same colour across different materials and print processes.
Using PMS colours helps keep your branding consistent. If your logo uses a specific red or blue, a Pantone colour ensures it will look the same across all of your printed packaging.
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black. It’s the colour mode used in full-colour (also called “process”) printing. While it offers a broad colour range, it isn’t always precise. Some colours can print looking dull, muddy, or different from what you see on screen.
It’s also worth noting that CMYK uses four inks, which can make it more costly than a single Pantone (PMS) colour, especially if your design uses just one or two solid colours.
We recommend using a CMYK to PMS conversion tool if you’re unsure about how your colours will print. It helps you find the closest Pantone match to your current CMYK values.
If you’re not sure which colours to use, feel free to ask us — we’re happy to help you choose the best options for your packaging.
When choosing Pantone colours, you’ll often see a “C” or a “U” after the code. This refers to the type of material the ink is printed on.
Coated (C) is used for glossy or coated surfaces. Colours printed on coated stock appear more vibrant and sharp.
Uncoated (U) is used for matte or uncoated materials, such as recycled paper. Colours will look more muted or softer.
Knowing which finish your packaging will have helps us choose the right Pantone references, so your design prints as expected.
Getting your artwork print-ready doesn’t need to be complicated. If you provide your logo or design as a clean vector file and specify Pantone colours, you’re already most of the way there.
If you’re ever unsure about file types, colour profiles, or print finishes, just reach out. We’re here to help you get the best possible result.
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