Creating Custom-Shaped Labels: Tips from Rose City Label
Custom shapes are a fun way to make your labels stand out, but the process can be trickier than working with standard shapes. Below are our tips to help you set up a file for a custom die line—so you can get the exact shape you want without any surprises.
Watch the Tutorial
1. Set Up Your Artboard to Match the Desired Label Size
- Size matters. Make sure your artboard size matches the final label size you want. In the example, we used a 3″ x 4″ artboard.
- Align carefully. Position your shape to align perfectly with the artboard’s boundaries. This positioning will help ensure accurate cutting and printing.
2. Watch for Sharp Corners & Tight Curves
- Die limitations. If your design has extremely sharp corners or tiny details, the die-maker may be unable to produce them. It’s best to avoid tiny or delicate shapes or simplify them so they can be cut cleanly.
- Adjust as needed. If a corner is too sharp, remove or smooth it out so it meets manufacturing requirements.
3. Use a Dedicated Die Line Layer
- Keep the die line separate. Place your die line on its own layer named something like “Die Line.”
- Stroke only. Set the die line as a stroke rather than a filled shape to differentiate it from the rest of your design clearly.
4. Create a Spot Color for the Die Line
- Define a spot color. Name it something like “Die Cut” in your swatches. This should be set as a Spot Color, not CMYK or RGB.
- Check separations. In your Separations Preview (if you have one), you’ll see your new die line spot color listed alongside the usual CMYK inks.
- Overprint. Set the stroke to overprint so it doesn’t knock out or alter the artwork underneath.
5. Don’t Forget Bleeds
- Set bleed values. If your design extends to the label’s edge, ensure you have the proper bleed (usually around 0.125″ beyond the cut line).
- Avoid white slivers. Proper bleeds ensure there aren’t any thin white edges after cutting.
Why All This Matters
Following these tips will save you time and headaches. The die line is crucial for telling our manufacturing equipment exactly where to cut the label. Clear setup and proper spot color designation mean fewer revisions, lower costs, and a quicker turnaround for your project.
Need More Help?
Check out the video for a step-by-step demo of creating a custom die line. Or reach out to our team here at Rose City Label for guidance—we’re always happy to help you get the perfect shape for your project.
Thanks for reading, and happy label designing!
