Streamlining Your Design Process: A Guide to Production-Ready Packaging Files

In the rapidly evolving world of cannabis packaging, standing out on the shelf and ensuring compliance are key to success. Just like a chef carefully selects ingredients to create a memorable dish, crafting packaging that excites budtenders and customers alike requires careful attention to design. At Vert, we're committed to helping our clients not only meet regulations but also deliver packaging that’s ready to hit the market fast.

That’s why we’ve teamed up with KitPrint, experts in creating production-ready design files, to ensure your packaging is not only compliant but also impactful from the start. This blog will walk you through how preparing your design files properly can streamline the process, improve collaboration, and get your product to market more efficiently. We’ll cover the essentials of file preparation and show how our partnership with KitPrint can take the hassle out of your packaging journey.

The Importance of Production-Ready Files

What Are Production-Ready Files? Production-ready files are carefully prepared design files that meet all technical specifications needed for high-quality printing. They eliminate common issues that can lead to delays or additional costs.

Common Issues with Unprepared Files

• Dieline layout errors
• Unprintable design elements or low resolution images
• Poor color management
• Three-dimensional print continuity issues
• Layer and separation disorganization
• Misunderstanding printer specs/requirements

For more details, refer to KitPrint’s guide on prepress design issues.

Consequences of These Issues

• Production delays
• Increased costs
• Potential misprints
• Compromised product quality

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Production-Ready Files

Before You Begin

1. File Creation Software
• Adobe Illustrator: Files must be created using Adobe Illustrator to ensure compatibility and precision. Other software, such as Canva or Figma, is not suitable for production-ready files.
2. Design on the Dieline
• Original Dieline: Always design on the originally provided dieline. Do not modify any layers or guidelines to avoid issues during production.
3. Color Space and Swatches
• CMYK Color Space: Ensure all files are produced in CMYK color space to match print specifications accurately.
• Pantone Swatches: Use Pantone swatches where possible for color accuracy and consistency.

File Format Essentials

• Preferred Formats: Save your final designs as AI (Adobe Illustrator) files or workable PDFs. (Check “Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities” box when saving.) These formats are preferred for their vector capabilities and ease of editing.
• Avoid PSD: PSD files are not recommended due to complications with vector graphics and layer management. For vector-based designs, AI files or PDFs are optimal.

Resolution and Quality

• Image Resolution: Maintain a minimum resolution of 300 dpi for all images to ensure high-quality prints with sharp details.

Color Specifications

• CMYK vs. RGB: Use CMYK color mode for all print designs, as it is suited for the printing process. RGB color mode is intended for digital displays and should be avoided for print files.

Bleed, Trim, and Safety Lines

• Setup: Include bleed, trim, and safety lines in your file to prevent any important elements from being cut off. Ensure that the design extends beyond the trim line to accommodate for any slight misalignment during cutting.

Text and Element Management

• Text Clarity: Ensure all text is legible and appropriately sized. Convert text to outlines to prevent font issues and maintain consistency.
• Embed Images: Embed all images (logos, symbols, graphics etc.) in your file to avoid missing elements or additional processing time.

File Checklist

Before submitting your design files, review the following checklist to ensure completeness:

• File created in Adobe Illustrator
• Designed on the provided dieline without modifications
• Produced in CMYK color space
• Pantone swatches assigned where applicable
• Saved as AI or workable PDF
• Image resolution set to 300 dpi
• Bleed, trim, and safety lines included
• Text converted to outlines and images embedded

For a more detailed walkthrough of artwork creation, embellishment prep, and exporting, refer to our comprehensive Instruction Guide: Creating Print Ready Files.

Tips for Faster Processing with Vert

How Properly Prepared Files Speed Up Production

• Reduce back-and-forth revisions.
• Minimize errors and adjustments.
• Facilitate smoother communication between design and production teams.

Recommendations for Quick Processing

• Follow the above guidelines.
• Maintain open communication with Vert’s team.

Where Does KitPrint Come in?

Advantages of Using KitPrint for Design Files

• Unlimited projects and revisions.
• 3-business day turnaround (or less).
• Significant cost savings (~50% of the cost of the average full-time employee).
• Fixed monthly rate.
• No contracts (month-to-month, pause whenever).
• Decades of expertise with thorough review processes.
• Free up your go-to designer to focus on higher-impact creative projects.

Balancing KitPrint and Vert’s Creative Services

While KitPrint excels in quick turnaround for production-ready files, Vert also offers comprehensive creative services for projects needing more strategic design input. For complex or high-profile projects, our creative team is ready to provide tailored solutions that go beyond basic file preparation.

In the world of cannabis packaging, the precision of production-ready files is crucial. Properly prepared files not only streamline the production process but also ensure that your packaging stands out with high quality and accuracy. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog, you can significantly reduce errors, avoid costly delays and incorrect proofs, and expedite your time to market.

Partnering with KitPrint allows for rapid turnaround and expertise in transforming initial designs into flawless, production-ready files. However, for projects that require a more strategic approach, Vert’s creative services offer comprehensive support to elevate your packaging design from concept to completion.

Need Assistance?

For personalized support or to kickstart your packaging project, reach out to us. Whether you need help with preparing your design files through KitPrint or require in-depth creative services from Vert, we’re here to assist you.

• Contact Vert  for detailed creative services and project inquiries.
• Contact KitPrint  for expert file preparation and rapid turnaround.

Start Your Project

Ready to get started? Initiate your project with Vert and leverage KitPrint’s expertise in preparing your design files to ensure a seamless and efficient production process.

In upcoming blogs, we will delve deeper into Vert’s creative process, providing further insights into how our team can help you scale your brand through innovative packaging design. Stay tuned for more!