File Setup for Sticker Sheets

This article outlines the required file formats, resolution standards, color profiles, and export settings needed to prepare a sticker sheet file for production. Following these specifications ensures accurate printing, consistent color output, and correct cutline recognition.


Formats, Resolution, Color Profiles

Preparing your file correctly is essential for accurate sticker sheet production. This includes choosing the correct file format, setting the proper resolution, using supported color profiles, and ensuring that cutlines and artwork are exported cleanly.

Supported File Formats

Sticker sheet files must be submitted in one of the supported formats listed below:

Accepted Formats

  • PDF

  • PNG

  • JPEG

  • SVG

  • TIF

  • AI

  • PSD

Format Considerations

  • PDF/AI is favored (vector graphics)

  • PNG/JPG is ok in high-res

  • Layers: Hidden or unused layers should be removed before export for PNG/JPEG. If you are working in PDF/AI separate layers may be used for custom effect layers.

  • Transparency: PNG and PDF files can handle transparency, JPG cannot.

Resolution Requirements

Correct resolution ensures sharp details and prevents blurry printing.

Minimum Resolution

  • 300 DPI at final print size

Notes on Resolution

  • Upscaling low-resolution images will decrease print quality

  • Small text or thin lines require high clarity at 300 DPI

  • Raster designs must be exported at their original dimensions

Color Profile Requirements

Color profiles ensure predictable color output during printing.

Supported Profiles

  • CMYK color mode at all times, to ensure colors are printed true to your design.

Technical Notes

  • RGB files often display colors more consistently on-screen, and an RGB file printed in CMYK may come out darker

  • Metallic, holographic, and transparent materials may shift perceived color depending on opacity settings

  • Convert to CMYK color mode before saving in PDF

Cutline File Requirements

Cutlines define the kiss-cut shapes on the sheet.

Cutline Specifications

  • Stroke width: 1 pt

  • Line style: Solid

  • Path: Fully closed vector shape

  • Color: A single, clearly identifiable spot color (commonly 100% magenta)

Placement Requirements

  • Cutlines must remain:

    • 0.075"/2 mm away from other cutlines

    • 0.075"/2 mm inside the sheet edges

  • Artwork must extend into the bleed beyond the cutline

Transparency, Layers & Special Elements

Sticker sheets should be exported cleanly to avoid unintended printing issues.

Checklist

  • Remove unused layers (unless you have a separate effect layer you want us to follow)

  • Flatten effects where possible

  • Ensure transparency behaves as expected (especially on clear materials)

  • Avoid low-opacity elements on top of cutlines

Text and Vector Handling

To avoid missing fonts or reflow issues:

Requirements

  • Convert all text to outlines before exporting

  • Expand the appearance of complex vector effects

  • Check for stray anchor points or overlapping paths

Export Guidelines

Before uploading your file:

General Export Rules

  • Export at 300 DPI

  • Ensure the final file matches the chosen sheet size

  • Include cutlines in the final export

  • Remove crop marks as they're not needed

PDF/AI Specific Notes

  • Use “High Quality Print” or equivalent export preset

  • Do not include printer’s marks

Summary

A correctly prepared sticker sheet file must meet the following technical requirements:

  • Accepted formats: PDF, PNG, JPEG, SVG, TIF, AI, and PSD files

  • Minimum resolution: 300 DPI

  • Color profile: CMYK

  • Cutlines: 1 pt stroke, solid, closed paths, 100% magenta

  • Spacing & bleed: Must follow sheet layout rules

  • Final export: Clean layers, correct size, flattened effects, outlined text

Following these specifications ensures consistent, predictable printing and accurate cuts across all sticker sheet orders.