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.
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 imagerybeyond 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 imageswithin 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!
At Rose City Label, we know that a great product deserves a show-stopping label—and the Good Tide Vodka label from Northwest Natural Spirits is proof of that. This label is more than just eye-catching; it’s a testament to how design, technical precision, and creativity make a product irresistible on the shelf.
Good Tide Vodka’s label is a perfect blend of elegance and tropical charm. The vibrant leaf and floral pattern immediately transports you to a lush paradise, while the bold, gold-accented “Good Tide” logo draws the eye and exudes sophistication. This isn’t just a label—it’s an experience waiting to happen.
So, how did we help bring this label to life? Here’s a peek behind the curtain:
The Material Matters: Printed on HP005b Metallized Bopp. The metallic base adds a shimmer and depth that makes the design pop.
Precision Presswork: We ensured unparalleled color accuracy and detail by Utilizing the HP Indigo and Delta presses.
Challenges Turned Opportunities: To achieve the stunning gold effect without actual foil, we printed in CMYK with white ink, creating a luxurious look while keeping the label production efficient and cost-effective.
This label showcases the power of thoughtful design and expert execution. It doesn’t just complement the vodka—it amplifies its story, inviting consumers to pick up the bottle and “Make Waves,” as the tagline suggests.
At Rose City Label, we believe every label has a story to tell. For Good Tide Vodka, the story is one of craftsmanship, quality, and a touch of the exotic. Whether you’re designing your next big label or need help making your product shine, we’re here to make your vision a reality.
Here’s what you should take away: A label isn’t just a sticker; it’s your product’s first impression. Make it bold, make it beautiful, and make it unforgettable—just like Good Tide Vodka.
Ready to create a label that stands out? Let’s talk!
We are beyond excited to announce that Rose City Label has won First Place for Best Classic Design Format in the 2024 PACK Design Awards, hosted by WineBusiness Monthly!
The award was for our work on the stunning label for MB by Momtazi Bachinsky, a biodynamic Pinot Noir from Oregon. This elegant label, designed in collaboration with Rachel at Graphic Lime Creative, showcases the true artistry and attention to detail we pour into every project at Rose City Label. We’ve enjoyed working with Rachel on many projects; her creativity and vision always shine through. Her ability to capture the essence of a brand and translate it into a standout label is unmatched. This partnership allows us to deliver top-notch, award-winning designs for our clients consistently, and we’re proud to work alongside her. Cheers to many more shared successes!
The judges praised this label, calling it “beautiful, simple, and eye-catching,” and commended its pastel plate as one of the best they’ve seen. They also noted how the abstract art, which celebrates the flora and fauna of the vineyard, tells a story—creating an appeal that spans from a formal dinner table to a casual picnic. One judge remarked that the luxurious wax top and overall design make this $25 bottle feel like a much higher-end product. Another pointed out the back label’s attention to farming practices, adding to its credibility and appeal.
“This packaging is pure luxury with the artsy label and wax capsule and would be a standout in a $25 and under section. Other $25 bottles don’t look like this. I like how the back label explains the idea behind the label as well as shares their farming practices which are very important. Sold!”
– Comment from a judge
At Rose City Label, we take immense pride in supporting small businesses—whether they’re wineries, breweries, retailers, or food producers—with labels that tell their stories and help their products stand out on the shelf. This award is a testament to our entire team’s creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication. Every label we create is a team effort, and we love collaborating with amazing brands like Momtazi Bachinsky.
Winning this award reinforces our commitment to pushing the boundaries of label design while staying true to the timeless, classic formats we love. We’re honored to be recognized for this work and look forward to helping more small businesses shine with their packaging.
Here’s to more creative projects and award-winning designs! Cheers!
