Artwork & File Prep Guide

Want your stickers to come out crisp, clean, and perfectly cut? This page is the “do this, not that” guide to setting up files the right way.

If you ever feel stuck, send what you have—we can usually help.

Best File Types (In Order)

  • Vector (best):AI, PDF, EPS, SVG
    • Perfect for logos, text, and sharp edges
  • Raster (fine if high-res):PNG, PSD, TIFF, JPG
    • Great for illustrations/photos (as long as resolution is strong)

Avoid: screenshots, tiny web images, heavy compression JPGs.

Resolution Requirements (Raster Files)

For PNG/JPG/PSD/TIFF:

  • Target: 300 DPI at final print size
  • Example: a 3″ x 3″ sticker should be ~900 x 900 px minimum.

If your art is smaller than that, you may see blur or pixelation.

Color: RGB vs CMYK

  • We print with professional production workflows, but:
    • Screens lie (every monitor shows color differently)
    • RGB → print can shift slightly

For best results:

  • Use CMYK when possible for design files
  • Provide Pantone values for brand-critical colors (if you need matching)

Bleed, Safe Area, and Borders

If your design goes to the edge (no white border):

  • Bleed: extend background [0.125″ / 1/8″] past the cut
  • Safe area: keep text/important details [0.125″] inside the cut

If you want a white border, make it intentional:

  • Recommended border thickness: [0.08″–0.12″]
  • Super-thin borders show cut tolerance more easily.

Cutlines (Die-Cut & Kiss-Cut)

If you supply a cutline:

  • One clean path: a single closed vector shape
  • No tiny spikes: smooth curves cut better
  • Minimum detail size: avoid micro-inlets smaller than [0.03″]

If you don’t supply a cutline:

  • We’ll use the artwork edge and produce a reasonable cut path (or request clarification).

Transparent Backgrounds

If your design needs transparency:

  • Use PNG or PSD with transparency intact
  • Avoid JPG (it has no transparency)

Text and Fonts

To prevent font substitution:

  • Outline fonts (convert text to shapes) in vector files, or
  • Embed fonts in PDFs if outlining isn’t possible

Finishes + Special Notes

Depending on what you offer, keep/adjust these:

  • Matte vs Gloss: affects perceived contrast and saturation
  • Outdoor durability: laminate improves scratch + UV resistance
  • Clear stickers: be mindful of light colors on clear material
  • White ink: [available / not available] — if available, specify how to indicate it

Common Mistakes (Quick Fixes)

  • Blurry art: upload a higher-res file or vector
  • Hairline borders: increase border thickness
  • Dark colors look muddy: brighten shadows slightly
  • Tiny text: increase font size or thicken strokes
  • Complex cut shape: simplify sharp corners and micro-details

Want Us to Check Your File?

If you want a sanity check before printing, contact us with:

  • Order number (if already placed)
  • Your file
  • What you’re worried about (color, edges, small text, cut shape)

Last updated: [January 17, 2026]

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