Art Specs

Art can be sent on disk or electronically. E-Mail to: artdept@labelsmith.com

Mail to: Labelsmith, Inc.
1147 Gator Way
Sparks, NV 89431

Electronic Files

This is what we prefer--but please provide a color printout so we have a reference to go by when we output your job. This shows us what you want the final result to look like.

Macintosh files, Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop are preferred; for other programs, please save as an .eps file. PDF files can be used if they are editable. IMPORTANT: Convert all fonts to outlines, or include with file.

ALWAYS send a printout with an electronic file. If a color match is desired, we must have the PMS colors expected, as colors on a computer printout will vary with different printers. Before sending your file, please print your color separations to be sure they print as intended. And if a custom die is requested, please include a dieline.

Typesetting

We can typeset text up to 10 lines, free of charge. Art charges are $45.00/hour.

Type

Minimum point size is 4 pt for sans serif fonts, 6 pt for serif fonts, such as Times Roman, or 8 pt for reverse printing. Smaller type will fill in when printed.

Process colors are not recommended for text. Use single colors for text to produce clean, sharp, easy to read print.

Bleeds

Minimum of 1/16 to 1/8" beyond the edge of the label is required. Borders must be 1/8" wide with an additional 1/16" bleed outside of the die cut. All copy needs to be 1/8" from the edge of the die cut. No bleeds available on butt cut labels.

Screens

Graduated screens should range from 4% to 100%. Any values below 4% may not reproduce correctly, and leave hard edges or reduced quality.

Clear Labels for glass

If you have a clear label going on glass, we recommend a white backup ink to improve readability. This can be printed as a "halo" around the printed image or as a partial background behind the printed image only (not available on small type or detailed artwork.

Labeling Laws, Nutrition Facts, and UPC Codes

We are not experts on labeling laws for specific projects. Please contact the appropriate authorities for your product for applicable regulations. For most requirements, you can contact the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov. The FDA regulates food, drugs, cosmetics, animal feed, medical devices, etc. UPC codes are issued and controlled by the Uniform Product Code Council. If you need a UPC number, visit www.uc-council.org and click on "I need a UPC code."

Trapping

If setting traps, set black to overprint all colors. Traps should be a minimum of .5 pt. Spread the lighter color into the darker. Double check that your colors are spot color rather that CMYK, unless your job is process colors.

Attention Designers!

Designing for flexographic printing is not the same as for offset printing! Flexo has inherent differences such as the need for wider trap zones due to distortion factors, substrate stretch, etc. Flexo inks are transparent. Please follow these guidelines for the best quality label!