FAQ: Design & Artwork

You can upload design files in the following formats:

• PDF (preferred)
• JPEG
• PSD
• AI
• EPS
• PNG

If you’re using a different file type, get in touch first and we’ll let you know if it’s suitable, or we can potentially help you to convert it if not.

For optimal sticker and label printing results, please aim to match these file specs:

• Colour Mode - CMYK
• Resolution - 300dpi
• Bleed and Safe Area - Include a 3mm bleed and keep key elements at least 3mm inside the edge

Not sure if your file is set up correctly? No problem, we manually check every file before it goes to print. If there’s anything that could affect the final quality, we’ll let you know and help resolve it. You can also request a free proof if you prefer, but note that we can’t start printing until you have approved it.

Of course! Our in-house design team can craft a custom design just for you, and this service is completely free with Pro orders. To get started:

1. Select the design service checkout option on our order building calculator.
2. Use the notes box to explain your vision - colours, layout, style and text - to help.
3. Upload any files you want us to use, like logos or photos.
4. It’s optional, but uploading a sketch or mock-up to show your idea can be helpful.

We'll send a proof design for approval before printing, and you're welcome to request changes before the final sign-off.

Yes, we can. Our in-house design team offers a flexible artwork editing service to help get your files print-ready. We can assist with:

• Adding bleed
• Resizing text
• Adjusting layouts
• Tweaking colours
• Making content edits, such as text and images

To request this service, just select the design assistance option when placing your order and include clear instructions in the notes section at checkout. We’ll always send you a proof to review and approve before anything goes to print.

The safe area is a 3mm buffer zone from the edge of your design where no crucial elements (like text or logos) should be located. It protects against misalignment during cutting, ensuring nothing important is accidentally trimmed off your stickers or labels.

Why it matters:

• Cutting machines have minor tolerance differences
• Materials like vinyl can shift slightly during production
• Prevents reprints, waste and unwanted surprises

Any background colours or images can be extended all the way to the edge.

Want to go closer to the edge? Let us know in your notes and confirm you're happy to accept the risk. However, we can’t reprint if things get trimmed too close.

To show your custom cut shape:

• For Vector Files (AI, EPS, PDF) - Add a clearly visible stroke in a standout colour (like red or magenta), and label it as “cutline.”
• For Bitmap/Raster Files (JPEG, PNG) - Submit the cutline as a separate vector layer or file, or provide detailed written instructions.

If you can’t do that - no problem! Send a sketch or diagram - even hand-drawn and photographed - along with a clear description and we’ll help. We’ll always send you a proof before printing so you can confirm the cutline.

Yes, our site can handle files up to 25MB. If your image is larger than that, it’s not a problem, just send us a link via WeTransfer, Dropbox or Google Drive.

Large files can slow down or crash the print software. We’ll help optimise oversized files if needed - just contact us after placing your order.

RGB and CMYK are two different colour models, and they have different uses. Here’s what sets them apart

• RGB (Red, Green, Blue) - Ideal for digital screens
• CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) - Ideal for printing

We print in CMYK, so if you upload RGB artwork, we’ll convert it. For the most accurate colour results, design in CMYK from the start or convert before uploading.

Yes, we’ll send you a design template for your specific label size, complete with bleed, safe area and a cutline. Just ask when placing your order, and we’ll email it over for you to drop your artwork into. If you need help setting it up, our team can check and fine-tune it for you.

The standard bleed area is 3mm, with an optional reduced bleed of 1.5mm, which can be requested by contacting us.

The bleed is important as it provides an extra printed area around your design, which then gets trimmed off during production to achieve the desired final size. It ensures there are no unprinted white edges if the cut shifts slightly (even if it’s a fraction of a milimeter). Think of the bleed area as a safety net for your background.

To check if your text is large enough, print your design at actual size at home. Alternatively, display it on screen at 100%, and zoom in or out until it’s the same size that you want printed. You can then use a ruler to confirm the size.

If it’s hard to read at real size, try increasing the font. We’re happy to review it if you want a second opinion.

You can absolutely use raster images like JPEG or PNG, just try to make sure they’re high resolution (300dpi or higher). Vector artwork is ideal for scalability and precision, but it’s not essential.

Use these CMYK values for best, rich black results:

• Text and Fine Details - CMYK (0, 0, 0, 100) for crisp, clean black
• Large Areas or Backgrounds - CMYK (50, 50, 50, 100) for a deeper, richer black