How do I set up my file for a custom shaped product?

Products with custom shapes require a dieline. This includes die cut stickers, die cut hang tags, and die cut business cards. Dielines show the desired shape of your products. They are necessary for any non-rectangular shaped item. Here’s how to make one.

Define your shape

You must create a vector version of your shape.

We recommend using Adobe Illustrator or similar design software to create a vector outline of your desired shape. Please create the outline on its own layer. The shape should be made with a 100% magenta outline to make it stand out from your design.

Greenerprinter also offers free templates for many products. They include the necessary bleed and safety margins. These templates are a great place to start when creating a custom shaped product.

Add your design

On a separate layer, add your product design. Make sure your dieline aligns with where you want the cuts to occur. Double-check our File Set-up Checklist to make sure your design is press-ready. Pay close attention to bleeds, especially if your design has cutouts, as with windowed packaging boxes.

Your design file should have 2 layers: one with the dieline and one with the design artwork. Please clearly label these layers.

Export your PDF

You can export your PDF like normal, but make sure that “Create Acrobat Layers from Top-Level Layers” is turned on. For more information about how to export PDFs, please read our How do I export a PDF? article.

Submit PDF

You are now ready to submit your PDF for a custom shaped job!