Artwork Guidelines for Custom Sticker Printing

Accepted File Formats

We accept a variety of file formats. Vector files are strongly preferred for the sharpest results:

Format	Type	Recommended	Notes
AI (Adobe Illustrator)	Vector	✅ Best	Preferred for all die cut work
EPS	Vector	✅ Best	Universal vector format
PDF	Vector/Raster	✅ Best	Save with bleeds included
SVG	Vector	✅ Good	Web-standard vector format
PNG	Raster	⚠️ Acceptable	Must be 300 DPI minimum at print size
JPG/JPEG	Raster	⚠️ Acceptable	300 DPI, no compression artifacts

Resolution Requirements

• Minimum resolution: 300 DPI (dots per inch) at final print size
• Recommended resolution: 300–600 DPI for photos and gradients
• Vector files: Resolution-independent — always print at maximum quality
• Screen resolution (72–96 DPI) is NOT acceptable — do not use screenshots or web images

Color Mode

• Use CMYK color mode for all print files (not RGB)
• RGB colors will be converted to CMYK during production, which may cause color shifts
• For precise Pantone color matching, specify the Pantone (PMS) color codes in your file notes
• Black text should be set to 100% K only (not rich black) for crisp results
• For large solid black areas, use rich black: C:60 M:40 Y:40 K:100

Bleed & Safe Zone

All artwork must include a bleed area to prevent white edges after cutting:

Setting	Requirement	Why
Bleed	0.125" (3mm) on all sides	Prevents white borders after cutting
Safe Zone	0.125" inside the final edge	Keeps text/logos from being cut off
Cut Line	Provide as a separate path or layer	Used for die cutting your shape

Die Cut Shape Requirements

1. Provide your cut line as a separate spot color layer named "CutContour" or "Die Line"
2. The cut line should be set to overprint and use a spot color (e.g., Pantone 032 C in Magenta)
3. Add 0.125" offset from your design edge to ensure all artwork is visible after cutting
4. Avoid extremely thin cuts (under 1/8") that may not cut cleanly
5. For intricate shapes, keep all detail paths at minimum 2pt stroke width

Font Guidelines

• Outline all fonts before sending — this prevents font substitution issues
• In Illustrator: Select all text → Type → Create Outlines
• Minimum readable text size: 6pt (8pt+ recommended)
• Avoid very thin or hairline font weights for small sizes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Low-resolution images (under 300 DPI)
• ❌ RGB color mode instead of CMYK
• ❌ Missing bleeds and safe zones
• ❌ Fonts not outlined (converted to paths)
• ❌ Transparency effects not flattened in raster files
• ❌ Die cut line not provided as a separate layer
• ❌ Gradient mesh objects (convert to raster before submitting)

File Upload & Submission

You can submit your artwork in several ways:

• Upload directly via the quote form on any product page
• Email files to info@thecustomstickers.co
• Share via a Dropbox, Google Drive, or WeTransfer link in your message

Our design team will review your artwork for free and contact you with any issues before printing begins.