How to Create a Print-Ready Packaging Dieline
A dieline is the flat, unfolded template of a packaging structure — showing exactly where the packaging will be cut, folded, scored, and glued. Getting it right is critical; errors in the dieline mean reprints at your expense.
What a Dieline Shows
A standard dieline contains the following layers:
- Cut lines — the outer boundary of the final die-cut shape
- Fold/score lines — where the packaging folds
- Glue areas — specified zones for adhesive application
- Bleed area — typically 3–5mm beyond cut lines
- Safe zone — 3–5mm inside cut lines where critical content must stay
- Print area — defined by total canvas including bleed
Critical Technical Specifications
Resolution
- Raster images: 300 DPI at final print scale minimum
- For large-format (boxes over A3): 150 DPI acceptable from viewing distance
Colour Mode
- CMYK for all print artwork
- Pantone (PMS) colours specified separately where spot colours are required
- RGB images must be converted to CMYK before finalisation
Bleed
- Standard: 3mm bleed all around
- Large format boxes: 5mm bleed
- Check with your specific printer — requirements vary
Line Weights
- All structural lines (cut, score, fold) must be set to 0.01pt or Hairline — not a print layer
- Artwork must be on separate layers from structural lines
Common Dieline Mistakes
- No bleed: Artwork that ends at the cut line will show white edges after cutting
- Text in the safe zone violation: Text too close to folds gets lost in the fold
- RGB artwork: Colours shift dramatically when converted to CMYK at print
- Low-resolution images: Obvious pixelation at print scale
- Missing Pantone specs: Printer matches to nearest CMYK equivalent unless Pantone specified
Supplier Dielines
Most packaging printers and converters will supply a dieline template on request. Always work from their template — never from a generic template — as their templates account for material thickness, board calliper, and their specific tooling.
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