Preparing Artwork for Production

A packaging design can look finished on screen and still not be ready for manufacturing. Before cigar bands, boxes, labels, sleeves, or other packaging components can be produced, the artwork needs to be converted into production-ready files. These files tell the printer or packaging manufacturer exactly: What should be printed Where it should be printed Where the material should be cut or folded Which colors should be used Which elements receive foil Which areas are embossed or debossed How the finished component should be assembled This is the point where creative artwork becomes technical artwork.