Label Submission Final Checks: Ensuring Your File is Print-Ready
When submitting your label design, a few last-minute checks can save you from costly errors and reprints. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through essential final checks—from clipping masks to text placement—so you can be sure your design is ready for press.
Watch the video below for a step-by-step demonstration, and read on for a concise overview.
1. Verify Your Die Line & Clipping Masks
- Check shape alignment. If you’re using a custom shape, offsetting the path Object > Path > Offset Path (for example, by 0.2 inches) helps reveal any misalignment.
- Clean up your clipping masks. Make sure your image and die line match perfectly. If there’s a stray or incorrect mask, remove it and create a correct clipping mask with the right object.
2. Maintain a Safety Margin
- Offset the die by 1/16″ (0.0625″). This margin is your die “safety zone.” Any critical text or artwork that crosses this line risks being cut off.
- Move the text inward. Keep important details inside the safe area so the final cut won’t clip your design elements.
3. Align & Center Your Elements
- Use alignment tools. Double-check that text or graphics are centered and look balanced on the label.
- Watch for off-center text. Even small shifts can be noticeable when printed, so take a moment to make it perfect.
4. Remove Extraneous Objects
- Path Clean Up. In Illustrator, use Object > Path > Clean Up to get rid of unwanted points or stray elements.
- Check your links. Ensure there aren’t any hidden images or random objects hanging around that you don’t actually need.
5. Final Review
- Hide/unhide layers. Temporarily hide layers to see if there’s anything still lurking on the artboard that shouldn’t be there.
- Set up for success. With everything cleaned up and properly placed, you’ll avoid surprises once the job hits the press.
Watch the Video
Curious about how it’s done in real-time? Check out our quick demonstration of these final checks. You’ll see exactly how to offset paths, manage clipping masks, and keep your design safe and tidy.
Have Questions?
If you’re still unsure about your file setup or need help finalizing your design, feel free to reach out to Rose City Label. We’re here to help make your label printing process as smooth as possible!