Welcome to our new series, where we share quick technical tips for better label design! This post will walk you through creating a simple rectangular or circular label template in Adobe Illustrator, including bleed and safety margins. Check out the embedded video below for a step-by-step demonstration or read below for a quick tutorial.
Key Steps and Tips
- Document Size and Bleed
- Create a new document (e.g., 4″ wide × 3″ tall).
- Set bleed to 1/16 inch (0.0625″).
- This 1/16″ bleed applies no matter the overall label size.
- Inside Safety Margin
- Create a guide 1/16″ inside the label to mark your “type limit” or “die safety margin.”
- In Illustrator, you can do this by drawing a box the same size as the label and then using an Offset Path at –1/16″. Convert it to a guide so it won’t print.
- Shape Options
- Rectangles: Use the desired dimensions (e.g., 4″ × 3″).
- Circles: Set your artboard to the size of the circle (e.g., 1″ × 1″).
- Tell your CSR (Customer Service Representative at Rose City Label) the shape and size so it’s clear whether you’re printing a circle, rectangle, or any other shape.
- Background and Bleed
- Extend your background color or imagery beyond the bleed line.
- The red line (or outer border) marks where the label will be cut. Make sure your background or any non-critical design elements continue past this line.
- Safe Zone for Text and Critical Graphics
- Keep all important text and images within the 1/16″ safety margin inside the label.
- This ensures important elements won’t be trimmed off or look misaligned if the label shifts slightly during cutting.
Why This Matters
- Prevents Trimming Errors: Setting up bleed and safety margins ensures your label designs come out crisp and professional without unwanted white edges.
- Maintains Legibility: Keeping text within the safe zone avoids accidentally cutting off important info.
- Simplifies Production: Printers have consistent guidelines to follow, reducing back-and-forth corrections.
That’s all there is to it! Embedding a proper bleed, creating clear safe zones, and specifying the correct shape upfront will help your labels print perfectly every time.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your label designs, feel free to contact our team. We’re here to help you get the best results possible!
Happy designing!