Great labels start with great files. A few simple steps make the difference between a label that looks professional and one that looks blurry or gets cut off. Here’s what to check before you upload.
1. Design at the actual size
Set up your file at the exact label size you’re ordering, such as 3″ × 4″. Scaling a design later can stretch it or make text too small.
2. Use high resolution
For sharp printing, images should be at least 300 DPI at full size. A logo copied from a website or social media is usually too low-resolution and will look blurry. If you can, use vector artwork (PDF, AI, EPS or SVG) for logos and text. It stays crisp at any size.
3. Add bleed
If your background color or image goes to the edge of the label, extend it about 1/16″ to 1/8″ past the edge. This is called bleed, and it prevents thin white slivers around the edge after cutting.
4. Keep important things in the safe zone
Keep text, logos and anything important at least 1/16″ to 1/8″ inside the edge. Small cutting variations are normal, and this keeps your content from getting trimmed.
5. Make text readable
- Keep body text, like ingredients and directions, at about 6 pt or larger.
- Use strong contrast: dark text on light backgrounds or light text on dark backgrounds.
- Avoid very thin fonts at small sizes.
6. Think about colors
Screens and printers show color differently, so bright screen colors may print slightly different. Designing in CMYK gives you a closer preview of printed color. If a brand color is critical, mention it when you order.
7. Double-check every word
Proofread product names, ingredients, net weight, contact info and barcodes. Ask someone else to read it too. Fresh eyes catch mistakes.
We check before we print
Every PrintedGo order includes a free digital proof. Nothing prints until you approve it. Don’t have a design yet? Contact us, and we can help. When your files are ready, start your custom label order.