A practical print-ready artwork checklist

By Victoria Qiu · 7 October 2026 · 2 min read

Use the agreed dieline

A dieline is the flat drawing that marks the cuts and folds of a pack. Confirm that it matches the approved dimensions before placing artwork. Keep essential text clear of folds, cuts and glue areas. Never resize a finished dieline casually to make a design fit.

Check trim, bleed and safe areas

Bleed extends artwork beyond the trim edge so small cutting variations do not leave an unwanted white line. The required amount and safety margins should come from the production specification. Check every panel and page, not just the front face.

Prepare images and fonts

Use suitable-resolution images at the size they will print. Confirm font handling with the supplier: embedded fonts or outlined text may be requested. Keep an editable working file as well as the approved output file, and review the final export visually.

Clarify colour expectations

A backlit screen is not a printed sheet. Confirm the colour setup and proofing route, especially for brand colours. Different papers and finishes can change the appearance. State which colours are critical and agree how the result will be evaluated.

Separate finishing artwork

Foil, spot coating, embossing and other finishing areas may need distinct layers or files. Ask how they should be named and supplied. Very fine details may not reproduce in the same way as ordinary ink, so review limitations before approving the artwork.

Approve content and version together

Check spelling, translations, product information, warnings and barcodes under your own approval process. Add a clear revision name and confirm the final file list. Production-readiness review does not replace responsibility for technical, legal or regulatory content.

General guidance only. Discuss the product-specific materials, process, market requirements and testing before approving production.

About the author

Victoria Qiu 邱思婕

Victoria Qiu is a printing and packaging professional with extensive industry experience. She manages two factories and brings a factory management perspective to the XINXIN journal.

Her articles explore material selection, packaging structure, printing processes, sample approval and production preparation. She shares practical guidance to help brand owners, buyers and product teams develop clearer packaging briefs and make informed purchasing decisions.