Preparing reliable artwork for print and packaging

Print quality depends on more than the press itself. Final dimensions, bleed, safe margins, fonts and colour space must be agreed before sending artwork. Offset, digital and flexographic production may require different output settings.

Context and objectives

For packaging, align the artwork with die-lines, folds, glue areas and mandatory product information. A proof helps reveal differences between screen colour and final substrate. Agree on material, coating and finishing before mass production.

Action checklist

• Confirm trim size, bleed and safe margins with production.
• Check embedded fonts and linked images in the delivery PDF.
• Use the colour profile requested for the press and substrate.
• Approve a proof and record specifications before large runs.

Key takeaway

Use a preflight checklist and proof approval to prevent avoidable reprint costs.