Custom Printed Packaging: 10 Things to Check Before Approving Your Artwork
Before custom packaging goes into production, artwork approval is one of the most important steps. Incorrect dimensions, colors, text, or printing specifications can lead to delays, additional costs, and packaging that does not meet your expectations.
This guide covers ten essential checks to help packaging buyers and brand owners review artwork for bottles, jars, flexible pouches, and labels before production.
Why Packaging Artwork Approval Matters
Packaging artwork affects both the appearance and functionality of the final product. A small error in the design file can become a costly problem when repeated across thousands of units.
Before approving your packaging artwork, review the technical specifications, printing requirements, product information, and final appearance.
10 Essential Artwork Checks
Use the following checklist before confirming your final packaging design.
Check the Correct Dimensions
Confirm that artwork dimensions match the approved packaging specifications and dieline. Check the front, back, sides, and any relevant folding or sealing areas.
Confirm Color Specifications
Check CMYK, spot colors, or other color requirements according to the printing process. Provide approved color references when accurate brand matching is important.
Review Logos and Fonts
Use suitable vector artwork where possible. Confirm that fonts are embedded or outlined as required and that logos remain sharp at their final printed size.
Verify Product Information
Proofread product names, ingredients, directions, quantities, warnings, and other label information. Confirm applicable regulatory requirements for your target market.
Check Image Resolution
Ensure images are suitable for the final print size. A resolution around 300 ppi is common for many printed images, but requirements vary by printing process.
Confirm Bleed and Safe Areas
Keep important text and logos inside the approved safe area. Add the required bleed and avoid placing critical information too close to trimming or sealing edges.
Consider Packaging Materials
Review how the selected material affects color, opacity, adhesion, and print appearance. Clear bottles, colored plastics, and flexible films may require different approaches.
Review Special Finishes
Confirm the placement and specifications for hot stamping, spot UV, matte or glossy finishes, embossing, and other decorative effects where applicable.
Check Every SKU and Variation
If your brand has multiple sizes, fragrances, colors, or formulas, verify each artwork version separately. Confirm that the correct design matches each product.
Approve a Physical Sample
When practical, evaluate a printed sample or production proof. Check color, readability, placement, material appearance, and overall packaging presentation.
Common Artwork Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced brands can encounter printing issues when files are incomplete or specifications are unclear.
- Using an outdated dieline or incorrect dimensions.
- Submitting low-resolution images or missing font files.
- Assuming screen colors will exactly match printed colors.
- Placing text too close to trimming or sealing areas.
- Forgetting to update information across multiple SKUs.
- Approving artwork without checking the final production file.
Artwork Requirements for Different Packaging Types
Different packaging formats require different artwork preparation methods.
| Packaging Type | Important Artwork Checks |
|---|---|
| Plastic Bottles | Printing area, bottle curvature, material color, and logo placement. |
| Plastic Jars | Label dimensions, curved surfaces, lid decoration, and readability. |
| Flexible Pouches | Dielines, gussets, seals, zipper positions, and print alignment. |
| Labels & Stickers | Label size, bleed, adhesive compatibility, and finishing. |
Digital Printing vs. Gravure Printing
The printing method can influence artwork preparation, color control, setup requirements, and production costs.
Digital printing may offer flexibility for shorter runs and multiple designs, while gravure printing can be suitable for larger repeat production volumes. The right method depends on your packaging format, artwork, materials, and quantity.
Discuss the intended printing process with your supplier before preparing final production files.
Final Artwork Approval Checklist
Before authorizing production, confirm that all applicable items have been reviewed.
Custom Printed Packaging from UNALILIA
UNALILIA provides packaging solutions for skincare, hair care, body care, cosmetics, household cleaning, food, supplements, and other applications.
Our product range includes plastic bottles, jars, caps, pumps, sprayers, flexible packaging, labels, and stickers. Custom colors, printing, and decoration options can be discussed according to your project requirements.
Ready to Start Your Custom Packaging Project?
Send UNALILIA your packaging specifications, artwork or reference images, required quantity, and customization details. Our team can discuss suitable packaging and decoration options for your project.
Request a Packaging Quote →Frequently Asked Questions
What is packaging artwork approval?
Packaging artwork approval is the process of reviewing and confirming the final design and technical files before printing or production begins.
What file format is best for packaging printing?
Suppliers commonly request print-ready PDF or vector-based artwork files. The exact format depends on the printing process and supplier requirements.
Should packaging artwork use CMYK?
CMYK is commonly used for many printing applications, but some projects require spot colors or other color specifications. Confirm the requirements with your printer.
Is a printed sample necessary?
A printed sample is often useful for checking color, placement, readability, and material appearance, particularly for new designs or important brand launches.
Can artwork changes delay production?
Yes. Changes after final approval may require revised files, additional proofs, or production adjustments, potentially affecting cost and lead time.