How do I set up a cut-to-shape sticker?

A cut-to-shape (die-cut) sticker needs three things in the artwork: the design, a cut line showing the exact shape, and bleed running past that line.

The cut line

• Draw the cut line as a stroke, with no fill, in a spot colour named CutContour.
• Put it on its own layer too, so it can’t be mistaken for part of the design.
• Keep the shape simple. Smooth curves cut cleanly; very sharp inside corners and thin spikes don’t.

Bleed and safe area

• Extend the background at least 3mm past the cut line all the way round. Cutting can move very slightly, and bleed stops a white edge appearing.
• Keep text and logos at least 3 to 5mm inside the cut line.
• Avoid a thin border that follows the shape. Any tiny shift in cutting makes it look uneven. If you want a border, make it thick.

Supplying it

Supply a PDF with the cut line included, at the size you want the finished sticker. Some products have a template on the product page.

Our artwork check looks at the cut line before anything is printed. If you only have a flat image, we can create the cut line as an artwork fix, agreed with you first. See How much does it cost to have my artwork fixed or set up?