How to Apply Your Design to Our Product Templates

Creating your own custom packaging starts with a template — but it doesn’t need to feel complicated. Once you’ve chosen your product, you’ll be able to download a die-line file (also known as a packaging template) that shows you exactly where to place your artwork for print.

This guide will walk you through how to use that template correctly, step by step, using Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop. Whether you're designing yourself or working with a freelancer, these are the key things to know before uploading your file and placing your order.

Downloading the Right Template

Once you've selected a product on our site, you’ll be able to download the template directly from the product page. This file includes:

• A flat die-line showing all product panels
• Cut lines, fold lines, and bleed areas
• A separate ‘Printing Guidelines’ file with final checks before submission

Make sure you’re designing on the template that matches your selected size and style exactly.

Opening Your File in Adobe

Templates can be opened in Adobe Illustrator (preferred) or Photoshop, both of which give you full control over your design and print setup.

Once open, you’ll see multiple layers:

• Artwork – where your design should be applied
• Sample Design – a placeholder reference (turn this off)
• Dieline / Cut Marks – shows how your box folds and trims (do not edit)

🔒 You must not resize or modify the template. Any change to the dieline will result in your packaging being non compatible.

If you’d rather not use Adobe or need help preparing your file, scroll down to see how to connect with a designer on Fiverr, or reach out to us for free advice before you submit your order.

Designing Within the Artwork Layer

When applying your design, keep the following in mind:

• Use CMYK colour mode, not RGB
• Convert all text to outlines (Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + O)
• Embed all images — don’t leave them linked externally
• Extend your design to the bleed lines (outer edge)
• Keep logos and text at least 5mm away from cut/fold lines
• Design inside and outside surfaces clearly (label if submitting separately)

Your design should sit entirely within the Artwork layer, without modifying the dieline.

Saving and Exporting Your Artwork

When you're ready to export your file:

• Save as a PDF (recommended), AI, or PSD
• Make sure all layers are preserved
• If you’re designing multiple sides (inside/outside), submit them in one file if possible or label clearly

Double-check your file before uploading to avoid delays.

Uploading Your Artwork to Inke

You’ll upload your file when placing your order. If you’re not 100% sure your file is ready, you can select ‘Add proof for approval’ in your cart and we’ll send a digital preview for sign-off before production begins.

Need feedback first? No problem — you can also reach out to our team for free design advice before uploading.

What If You Need Help?

If Adobe isn’t your thing, or you’d rather someone else apply your design for you, we’ve partnered with Fiverr to make it easy.

Fiverr gives you access to experienced packaging designers who can:

• Apply your logo to the die-line
• Build out your artwork file from scratch
• Fix up files or prep them for print

🎨 Click here to browse packaging designers on Fiverr

It's fast, flexible, and designed to suit your timeline and budget.

Final Checks Before You Submit

• Review the Printing Guidelines that come with your template
• Do not resize or alter the die-line
• Keep all important content safely within trim margins
• If your file isn’t compatible, our team will reach out — but if you’re unsure, always ask

We're here to help make sure your packaging turns out exactly as planned.