Introduction
Welcome to ePac’s packaging design submission guide. To ensure a smooth and efficient process, follow these three simple steps to submit your artwork and dieline for custom pouches or rollstock. To avoid any delays in the approval process, please review the instructions carefully.
Step 1: Understanding the Documents
In your quote, the zip file you received contains all the necessary documents for your packaging design. Take a moment to familiarise yourself with each one:
1.1 Rollstock:
Overview: This is a single-layer depiction of the Dieline for reference purposes only.
Dieline:
Photo: Example of a rollstock dieline
Import this file into your image editing tool to design your custom pouch or roll stock. Ensure your artwork is on a separate layer within this file.
Eyemarks: This layer contains Eyemarks.
Measurements: This layer includes only the Measurements.
1.2 Pouches:
Overview: Similar to the Rollstock’s Overview, this is a single-layer depiction of the Dieline for reference purposes only.
Dieline:
Photo: Example of a stand up pouch dieline
Import this file into your image editing tool for your custom pouch design. Remember to place your artwork on a separate layer within this file.
Zipper: If applicable, this layer contains the Zipper design.
Tearline: If applicable, this layer includes the Tear Line design.
Eyemarks: This layer contains Eyemarks.
SealLines: If applicable, this layer contains the Seal Line design.
Measurements: This layer includes only the Measurements.
Illustration: Provide an illustration showcasing the different components of the Rollstock and Pouches, highlighting the Dieline and its various layers.
Step 2: Preparing Your Artwork
Before submitting your artwork, ensure it meets ePac’s specifications to avoid any delays in the approval process:
2.1 Artwork Specifications:
Save Each SKU Separately: Ensure each design or SKU is saved as a separate file.
Child Resistant Zippers: If your pouch has a Child Resistant Zipper, include an instructional image within the artwork.
Templates: While ePac doesn’t require their templates, there are guidelines for using non-ePac templates.
2.2 File Setup:
Separate Layers: Artwork and Dieline MUST be on separate layers in the file.
Clear Definitions: Clearly define all features and seals in your design.
Artwork Left on Dieline Layers: Avoid leaving any artwork on dieline layers as ePac is not responsible for it.
2.3 Colour and Text Requirements:
CMYK Color Mode: Set up the file in CMYK mode without ANY RGB elements. Use SPOT colours for Pantone colours.
Black vs. Rich Black: Use 100% black for black swatches and reserve Rich black for Soft Touch Matte PET.
Outline Text: Convert all text to outlines.
Resolution: Raster images must have a minimum of 300dpi.
Embed All Images: Artwork must be set up in Illustrator with all images embedded.
Illustration: Include an illustration demonstrating how to set up the file correctly with separate layers and outlining text.
Step 3: Submitting Your Artwork
After ensuring your artwork complies with ePac’s specifications, it’s time to submit your design:
3.1 Bleed and Overprint:
Bleed: A minimum of 0.125in/3.175mm bleed is required on all sides of the document.
Overprint: Avoid setting any artwork (text, images, etc.) to overprint.
3.2 Accepted File Types:
Adobe Illustrator or PDFs: Submit files in these formats. InDesign-generated PDFs are not accepted unless the packaged InDesign file is also provided.
3.3 White/Clear/No White Areas/Metallic Features:
White Separation: Provide a white separation and clear definition for any white, clear, or metallic areas.
ePac’s White Separation Proof: ePac will provide a white separation proof for approval.
Metallic Inks: ePac doesn’t print metallic inks, but the look can be achieved by laminating to a metalized material without backing it with white.
Illustration: Add an illustration showcasing the correct bleed, overprint, and the acceptable file types.
Conclusion
Following these three steps will ensure a seamless packaging design submission process at ePac. Remember to review the instructions and specifications carefully before uploading your artwork through the provided secure Custom Dropbox Link. ePac’s Prepress team will validate your artwork and prepare it for production upon completion. For any corrections or inquiries, feel free to contact ePac. Happy designing!
Click here to email our prepress team for extra help!
