Packaging design: stages and print preparation

Packaging design combines brand identity with product shape and use. The process starts with a brief, structure and approved content, followed by artwork and a production file matching the chosen supplier’s requirements.

Brief and dieline

Define the product, audience, display, size and variants. Supply a current dieline showing cuts, folds and glue areas. If no structure exists, agree who creates it. Artwork for an existing form differs from structural design.

Layout and content approval

The front should identify brand, product and variant. Other surfaces organise descriptions and user information. The product owner approves content and labelling. The designer checks hierarchy, contrast and fit rather than inventing unverified product properties.

Samples and variants

Review an actual-size print and assembled sample. Folds, seams or handles can hide text. Extra sizes and languages need checks even when they share one theme. Rowaj+ and PUF SALTS show different relationships between identity and information.

Production export

Confirm colour profile, bleed, format and special elements with the supplier. After export, check fonts, images and file version. Printing and finishing need separate arrangements. No single export specification suits every production method.

Project checklist

• Assemble a sample and check the orientation of all lettering.
• Compare sizes and languages at actual scale.
• Confirm production requirements before final export.

Bleed and print marks: Adobe Illustrator documentation.