Custom packaging & design
How to Prepare Artwork for Custom Mailers
Published 2026-01-18 · Updated 2026-09-18
A practical artwork checklist for custom mailers covering dielines, vector files, colour references, label zones, claims, proofing and approval.
TL;DR
Prepare custom mailer artwork on the supplier's current dieline using editable vector assets where possible. Protect folds, seals, label zones and required instructions, then approve the final proof together with the production specification.
Part of the Custom Compostable Packaging Guide. Read the full guide for checklists, decision frameworks, and FAQs.
Key takeaways
- Use the current supplier dieline and do not scale it without approval.
- Editable vector assets are the most reliable starting point for logos and line artwork.
- Colour references describe an intent; confirm the applicable print process and tolerance.
- Claims and certification marks require evidence and permission before approval.
- Archive the approved proof and linked specification.
Which artwork files should you prepare?
| Asset | Preferred input | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Logo and line art | Editable vector file such as AI, EPS or vector PDF | Text outlined or fonts supplied as requested |
| Photography | High-resolution linked or embedded raster file | Effective resolution at final print size |
| Colours | Approved colour references | How the production process will interpret them |
| Copy | Final approved text | Spelling, legibility and required qualifications |
| Certification marks | Approved official asset | Permission and evidence for the exact material |
How should the dieline be used?
Build on the current dieline supplied for the approved size and construction. Keep critical content inside the defined safe area and away from folds, seals, gussets, adhesive and tear or opening features.
Treat front and back orientation carefully. Review the filled bag orientation as well as the flat artwork so logos and instructions appear where intended.
Which operational elements need space?
- Carrier or 3PL shipping label.
- Adhesive closure and any second return strip.
- Opening and return instructions.
- Batch, product or supplier information where required.
- Certification marks and disposal wording where approved.
What should the final proof review cover?
Check dimensions, construction, orientation, copy, colours, image quality, label zone, closure clearance, marks and disposal wording. The proof should be identifiable by file name or version and linked to the final quote or specification.
A screen proof cannot reproduce every physical production characteristic. Confirm which elements are contractual and which remain subject to the documented print tolerance or sample process.
Sources and further reading
Planning custom compostable packaging?
Explore the available options, use the wider packaging guide or share your packed-product, artwork, quantity and delivery requirements for a tailored recommendation.
Related guides
FAQ
No. Brand references and available assets can start the discussion. Final production artwork must be prepared and approved before manufacturing.
They may help establish direction, but editable vector artwork is generally the more reliable production input for logos and line art. Confirm requirements for the chosen print process.
Reserve a low-detail area large enough for the labels used by the carrier or 3PL. Test it on a filled sample because folds can change the usable surface.
Only after the supplier confirms that evidence and mark-use permission cover the exact selected material or product.
More reading: Articles hub · Packaging Guide