> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.printery.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Packaging Design

> Design professional product packaging from concept to print

## Project Overview

Packaging design combines aesthetics with technical requirements. This guide covers boxes, labels, bags, and other packaging materials.

<Note>
  **Time to Complete**: 2-6 hours (varies by complexity)
  **Difficulty**: Advanced
  **Recommendation**: Work closely with packaging manufacturer
</Note>

## Types of Packaging

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Folding Cartons (Boxes)">
    **What**: Flat cardstock folded into boxes

    **Common types**:

    * Straight tuck end (STE)
    * Reverse tuck end (RTE)
    * Auto-lock bottom
    * Gable top
    * Pillow box

    **Materials**: Cardstock (12-24 pt)

    **Printing**: Offset or digital

    **Use for**: Product boxes, retail packaging, gift boxes

    **Complexity**: High (requires dielines)
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Labels">
    **What**: Adhesive labels for bottles, jars, products

    **Types**:

    * Roll labels (circular products)
    * Sheet labels (flat application)
    * Die-cut shapes
    * Clear/white materials

    **Materials**: Paper, vinyl, polyester

    **Printing**: Digital, flexo, offset

    **Use for**: Bottles, jars, products, shipping

    **Complexity**: Medium
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Bags & Pouches">
    **What**: Flexible packaging

    **Types**:

    * Stand-up pouches
    * Flat pouches
    * Gusseted bags
    * Paper bags

    **Materials**: Plastic film, paper, foil

    **Use for**: Food, coffee, supplements, retail

    **Complexity**: Medium-High
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Sleeves & Wraps">
    **What**: Labels wrapping around containers

    **Types**:

    * Shrink sleeves
    * Pressure-sensitive labels
    * Belly bands

    **Application**: Heat-shrunk or glued

    **Use for**: Bottles, cans, jars

    **Complexity**: Medium
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Working with Dielines

### What is a Dieline?

**Definition**: Template showing cut/score/fold lines for packaging

**Components**:

* **Die cut lines** (solid): Where to cut
* **Score/fold lines** (dashed): Where to fold
* **Safety area**: Keep important content here
* **Bleed area**: Extend design here

**Example** (simplified box):

```
┌─────────────────┐
│    ┌─────┐      │  Solid line = Cut
│    │     │      │  Dashed line = Fold
│────┼─────┼────  │
│    │     │      │
│    └─────┘      │
└─────────────────┘
```

### Getting Dielines

<Steps>
  <Step title="From Packaging Manufacturer">
    **Best source**: Your chosen packaging supplier

    **Request**: "Can you provide a dieline template?"

    **Format**: Usually AI (Illustrator), PDF, or EPS

    **Benefit**: Exact specifications for their equipment

    ✅ **Recommended approach**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Industry Standard Templates">
    **Sources**:

    * Packhelp
    * Packlane
    * BoxStructure.com
    * ArtiosCAD

    **Caution**: Verify dimensions match your needs

    **Customize**: May need adjustment
  </Step>

  <Step title="Custom Creation">
    **Advanced**: Create your own in CAD software

    **Tools**: ArtiosCAD, Boxshot, Cape Pack

    **Not recommended**: Unless experienced

    **Better**: Get from manufacturer
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Importing Dieline to Figma

<Steps>
  <Step title="Receive Dieline File">
    **Formats**: AI, EPS, PDF, or SVG

    From manufacturer or template library
  </Step>

  <Step title="Convert if Needed">
    **If AI/EPS**:

    * Open in Illustrator
    * Save as PDF or SVG
    * Export at actual size (100% scale)

    **If PDF**: Can import directly to Figma

    **Important**: Preserve dimensions (no scaling)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Import to Figma">
    **Method 1**: Drag PDF/SVG into Figma

    **Method 2**: File → Place Image → Select file

    **Result**: Dieline imported as vector (if SVG) or image (if PDF)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verify Dimensions">
    **Critical**: Check size matches specification

    **Example**: If dieline should be 12" × 8", verify in Figma

    **Fix if wrong**: Resize to exact dimensions

    **Lock**: Lock layer so you don't accidentally move it
  </Step>

  <Step title="Organize Layers">
    **Create layers**:

    * **Background**: Dieline template (locked)
    * **Design**: Your artwork (editable)
    * **Guides**: Cut/fold/safety lines (reference)

    **Lock dieline**: So you don't modify it

    **Design above**: Create artwork on top
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Box Design Specifications

### Common Box Sizes

| Product Type             | Typical Box Size | Cardstock Weight          |
| ------------------------ | ---------------- | ------------------------- |
| **Small item** (jewelry) | 2" × 2" × 1"     | 18-24 pt                  |
| **Standard product**     | 4" × 4" × 2"     | 16-20 pt                  |
| **Food box**             | 6" × 4" × 3"     | 18-24 pt                  |
| **Large retail**         | 10" × 8" × 4"    | 20-28 pt                  |
| **Shipping box**         | Various          | 200+ lb test (corrugated) |

### Critical Zones

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Bleed" icon="expand">
    **Amount**: 0.125" (3mm) beyond die cut line

    **Why**: Ensures no white edges after cutting

    **Extend**: All background colors/images to bleed

    **Example**:

    ```
    Die cut ──→ │ ← 0.125" bleed extends beyond
    ```

    **Check**: All edges have bleed
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Safety Zone" icon="shield">
    **Amount**: 0.125-0.25" (3-6mm) inside die cut

    **Why**: Cutting tolerance, folding distortion

    **Keep inside**:

    * All text
    * Logos
    * Important graphics
    * Barcodes

    **Avoid**: Critical content at fold lines

    **Example**:

    ```
    Die cut ──→ │ ←── 0.25" safety
                │ [SAFE AREA FOR TEXT]
    ```
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Fold Lines" icon="grip-lines">
    **Marking**: Dashed or dotted lines

    **Process**: Score lines created during die-cutting

    **Design consideration**:

    * Avoid placing important text on folds
    * Keep 0.125" clear on each side of fold
    * Design may shift at fold

    **Test**: Print and fold mock-up
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Glue Tabs" icon="shapes">
    **What**: Flaps where adhesive is applied

    **Keep clear**: No important content

    **Usually**: Plain or simple pattern

    **Marked on dieline**: Shows where glue goes

    **Design**: Background color/pattern only
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Label Design

### Label Types & Specifications

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Bottle Labels (Cylindrical)">
    **Shape**: Rectangle wrapping around bottle

    **Measurements needed**:

    * Bottle circumference
    * Label height
    * Overlap (0.25-0.5")

    **Example** (3" diameter bottle):

    ```
    Circumference = π × D = 3.14 × 3" = 9.42"
    Label width = 9.42" + 0.5" (overlap) = 9.92"
    ```

    **Considerations**:

    * Seam placement (usually back)
    * Label curls with bottle
    * Front panel prominent

    **Format**: Rectangular with bleed
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Die-Cut Labels">
    **Shape**: Custom shape following product

    **Examples**:

    * Circular
    * Oval
    * Custom logo shape
    * Irregular shapes

    **Design**:

    * Dieline defines shape
    * Bleed extends beyond cut
    * Safety margin inside

    **Popular for**: Premium products, branding
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Front & Back Labels">
    **Configuration**: Two separate labels

    **Front label**:

    * Product name
    * Brand
    * Key visual

    **Back label**:

    * Ingredients/info
    * Barcode
    * Regulatory text

    **Common for**: Food, beverages, cosmetics
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

### Label Materials

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Paper (Uncoated)">
    **Characteristics**:

    * Natural texture
    * Matte finish
    * Absorbs ink

    **Best for**: Craft products, organic, eco-brands

    **Not for**: Wet/refrigerated products
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Paper (Coated)">
    **Characteristics**:

    * Glossy or matte coating
    * Vibrant colors
    * Water-resistant coating option

    **Best for**: Most products, retail

    ✅ **Most common**
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Vinyl">
    **Characteristics**:

    * Waterproof
    * Durable
    * Flexible

    **Best for**: Outdoor, wet environments, bottles

    **Cost**: Higher than paper
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Clear/Transparent">
    **Characteristics**:

    * See-through background
    * Product visible through label
    * Premium look

    **Best for**: Glass bottles, luxury products

    **Design**: Plan for transparency
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Color & Printing Considerations

### Pantone for Brand Consistency

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Why Spot Colors Matter">
    **Problem**: Packaging requires exact brand colors

    **Solution**: Use Pantone spot colors

    **Benefits**:

    * Consistent across production runs
    * Matches brand guidelines
    * Vibrant colors beyond CMYK

    **Essential for**: Brand colors, logos

    See [Spot Colors Guide](/color/spot-colors)
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Spot + CMYK">
    **Common approach**:

    * CMYK for images/photos
    * Spot color for logo/brand elements

    **Example**:

    ```
    Plates:
    1. Cyan (CMYK)
    2. Magenta (CMYK)
    3. Yellow (CMYK)
    4. Black (CMYK)
    5. Pantone 287 C (brand blue)
    = 5-color printing
    ```

    **Cost**: More than 4-color, but worth it for brand accuracy
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="All Spot Colors">
    **When**: Simple design, 2-3 colors

    **Example**: White box + 2 Pantone colors

    **Benefits**:

    * Lower cost (fewer plates than CMYK + spot)
    * Perfect color match
    * Clean, simple

    **Use for**: Minimalist packaging
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

### Special Finishes

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Spot UV">
    **Effect**: Glossy coating on specific areas

    **Application**: Matte base + gloss highlights

    **Use for**: Logos, text, patterns

    **Feel**: Tactile, premium

    **Cost**: Moderate add-on
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Foil Stamping">
    **Effect**: Metallic foil adhered to paper

    **Colors**: Gold, silver, copper, holographic

    **Application**: Hot stamping

    **Use for**: Luxury packaging, premium brands

    **Cost**: Higher
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Embossing/Debossing">
    **Effect**: Raised (emboss) or depressed (deboss) areas

    **Application**: Die stamp

    **Can combine**: With foil

    **Use for**: Logos, premium packaging

    **Cost**: Higher (requires custom die)
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Matte/Gloss Lamination">
    **Effect**: Overall coating

    **Matte**: Soft, sophisticated

    **Gloss**: Vibrant, eye-catching

    **Protection**: Moisture and scuff resistance

    **Cost**: Low add-on

    ✅ **Common and affordable**
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Regulatory Requirements

### Food & Beverage Packaging

<Warning>
  **Legal requirements** vary by country and product type

  **Always consult**:

  * Food safety regulations
  * Labeling laws
  * Industry guidelines
  * Legal professional if unsure
</Warning>

**Common requirements** (US/FDA):

* Product name
* Net quantity
* Ingredient list (in order)
* Allergen warnings
* Nutrition facts
* Manufacturer info
* Country of origin
* Lot/batch code
* Expiration date

**Font sizes**: Minimum sizes required

**Placement**: Specific locations mandated

**Get review**: Legal/compliance check before printing

### Barcodes

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="UPC/EAN Barcode">
    **Required for**: Retail sales

    **Obtain from**: GS1 (gs1.org)

    **Size**: Minimum 1.469" × 1.02" (UPC-A at 100%)

    **Placement**:

    * Bottom right (preferred)
    * Clear space around (quiet zone)
    * White background

    **Quality**: High resolution, vector if possible

    **Test**: Scan before mass production
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="QR Codes">
    **Use for**:

    * Website links
    * Product information
    * Promotions

    **Size**: Minimum 0.75" × 0.75"

    **Contrast**: Dark code on light background

    **Test**: Scan to verify functionality

    **Generate**: QR code generator tools
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## Mock-Ups & Proofing

### Physical Mock-Ups

<Steps>
  <Step title="Print Flat">
    Print dieline with your design at actual size

    **Printer**: Home or office printer OK for mock-up

    **Paper**: Regular paper fine for testing
  </Step>

  <Step title="Cut and Fold">
    **Cut**: Along die cut lines

    **Score**: Use ruler and bone folder on fold lines

    **Fold**: Assemble box/package
  </Step>

  <Step title="Evaluate">
    **Check**:

    * Does it fold correctly?
    * Content in right places?
    * Text readable?
    * Design looks good assembled?
    * Any issues at folds?

    **Adjust**: Fix issues in Figma, repeat
  </Step>
</Steps>

### Digital 3D Mock-Ups

**Tools**:

* Boxshot
* Packly
* Adobe Dimension
* Online mock-up generators

**Benefits**:

* Realistic rendering
* Multiple angles
* Client presentations
* Marketing images

**Limitation**: Not a substitute for physical mock-up

## Printing & Production

### Minimum Order Quantities

| Package Type          | Typical MOQ | Cost Range       |
| --------------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
| **Custom boxes**      | 1000-5000   | \$0.50-3.00 each |
| **Labels (roll)**     | 500-1000    | \$0.05-0.50 each |
| **Pouches/bags**      | 1000-5000   | \$0.20-1.00 each |
| **Short-run digital** | 100-500     | Higher per-unit  |

**Digital printing**: Lower MOQ, higher unit cost

**Offset printing**: Higher MOQ, lower unit cost

### Lead Times

**Design approval**: 1-2 weeks

**Die creation** (if new): 1-2 weeks

**Printing**: 1-3 weeks

**Shipping**: 1-2 weeks

**Total**: 4-8 weeks typical

**Rush options**: Available at premium cost

## Step-by-Step: Simple Box

<Steps>
  <Step title="Get Dieline from Manufacturer">
    Contact packaging supplier, request dieline template

    Receive AI, PDF, or SVG file
  </Step>

  <Step title="Import to Figma">
    Create frame matching dieline dimensions

    Import dieline as background layer

    Lock dieline layer
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add Guides">
    **Mark**:

    * Die cut lines
    * Fold lines
    * Safety zones (0.25" inside)
    * Bleed areas (0.125" outside)

    Use Figma guides or shapes
  </Step>

  <Step title="Design Panels">
    **Identify panels**:

    * Front
    * Back
    * Sides
    * Top/bottom flaps

    **Design each panel**:

    * Brand elements
    * Product info
    * Graphics

    **Respect**: Safety zones, fold lines
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add Regulatory Elements">
    **Include** (if applicable):

    * Barcode
    * Ingredients
    * Warnings
    * Certifications
    * Contact info
  </Step>

  <Step title="Extend to Bleed">
    **Ensure**: All backgrounds/colors extend 0.125" beyond die cut

    **No white gaps**: After cutting
  </Step>

  <Step title="Export">
    **Printery**:

    * CMYK conversion ✓
    * Spot colors (if used) ✓
    * 300 DPI ✓
    * Crop marks ✓

    **Submit**: PDF to manufacturer

    **Include**: Printing specifications
  </Step>

  <Step title="Proof Before Production">
    **Request**: Physical proof from printer

    **Verify**:

    * Colors accurate
    * Folds correctly
    * No errors

    **Approve**: Before full production run
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Packaging Design Checklist

* [ ] **Dieline obtained**: From manufacturer or verified source
* [ ] **Dimensions verified**: Matches product and specifications
* [ ] **Bleed added**: 0.125" (3mm) beyond cut lines
* [ ] **Safety zones respected**: 0.25" (6mm) inside cut/fold lines
* [ ] **All text readable**: Minimum 8pt, larger for regulatory
* [ ] **Fold lines clear**: No important content on folds
* [ ] **Colors specified**: CMYK or Pantone as appropriate
* [ ] **Special finishes noted**: UV, foil, emboss (if applicable)
* [ ] **Regulatory compliance**: All required information included
* [ ] **Barcode included**: Correct size, placement, scannability
* [ ] **Physical mock-up created**: Printed, cut, folded, tested
* [ ] **Images 300 DPI**: All graphics high resolution
* [ ] **Manufacturer specs met**: Confirmed requirements
* [ ] **Proof approved**: Physical sample checked before production

## Learn More

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Spot Colors" icon="droplet" href="/color/spot-colors">
    Brand color accuracy with Pantone
  </Card>

  <Card title="Color Management" icon="palette" href="/color/overview">
    Professional color workflows
  </Card>

  <Card title="Advanced Options" icon="sliders" href="/features/advanced-options">
    Custom configurations
  </Card>

  <Card title="Design to Print" icon="paintbrush" href="/tutorials/design-to-print">
    Professional design principles
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

<Info>
  **Pro Tip**: Always, always, ALWAYS order a physical proof before mass production. The $50-100 proof cost can save you from $5,000+ in wasted packaging!
</Info>