Packaging dielines and cutter guides explained
A dieline is the flat outline of a pack, showing where it will be cut, creased and folded. In UK print it is often called a cutter guide.
Why it matters for a sample
Litmus is a UK packaging mockup studio in Hull. We cut and crease cartons and boxes from a cutter guide, so an accurate one is the starting point for an accurate sample.
The guide is an unprinted layer in the artwork. It is a type of keyline: a line that marks the exact placement, shape and size of an element without printing.
What a cutter guide shows
Cut lines mark the outer edge of the pack and any windows or cut-outs. Crease lines mark where the board folds. Glue flaps and tuck flaps show how the pack closes.
Artwork normally extends a little past the cut line. This is called bleed, and it stops a white edge appearing if the cut is slightly out. Text and logos are kept back from cuts and creases for the same reason.
What to send
We prefer artwork as vectorised Illustrator (AI) or EPS files, and can also work with high resolution PDFs. Images should be 300 dpi and embedded. Keep the cutter guide on its own layer.
If you do not have a cutter guide, send the dimensions, a reference pack or a sketch. Tell us the board you intend to use, because thickness affects the creases. Samples are cut on a flatbed CAD plotter, which handles card, acetate and E-flute board up to 5mm thick.
- Who makes it
- Litmus, a UK packaging mockup studio in Willerby, Hull, with a London office.
- Turnaround
- Most projects are produced within a few working days. Tell us your deadline and we plan around it.
- Price
- An estimate comes with your quotation. A firm price follows once we have your artwork, always before work starts.
- Artwork
- Illustrator (AI) or EPS preferred, high resolution PDF accepted. Images at 300 dpi, fonts outlined.
- Confidentiality
- NDAs and confidentiality agreements are signed as routine.
- Quality and delivery
- In-house quality control, with files pre-flight checked. Samples are wrapped with care and sent anywhere from local delivery to worldwide.
Common questions.
What is a dieline in packaging?
The flat template of a pack showing cut, crease and fold lines. It is also called a cutter guide.
Is a dieline the same as a cutter guide?
Yes. The two terms mean the same thing. Cutter guide is common in UK print.
What file format should a dieline be in?
A vector file. Litmus prefers Illustrator (AI) or EPS artwork with the cutter guide on its own layer, and can work with high resolution PDFs.
Start with your next pack.
Tell us the format, what you need to show and when you need it. The page you enquire from is included with your brief.