Structure
Dieline anatomy
A dieline maps cuts, folds and glue areas; artwork must follow it exactly.
Why it matters
Dielines separate cut lines (usually solid), crease or fold lines (usually dashed) and glue areas, which must stay free of ink and varnish so adhesive sticks.
How to apply it
- Get the dieline from your printer or converter
- Keep the dieline on its own non-printing layer
- Keep glue areas free of ink and varnish
Common mistakes
- Drawing your own dieline for production
- Placing text across folds
Quick answers
What is Dieline anatomy?
A dieline maps cuts, folds and glue areas; artwork must follow it exactly. Dielines separate cut lines (usually solid), crease or fold lines (usually dashed) and glue areas, which must stay free of ink and varnish so adhesive sticks.
How do I apply Dieline anatomy in packaging design?
Get the dieline from your printer or converter. Keep the dieline on its own non-printing layer. Keep glue areas free of ink and varnish.
What are common mistakes with Dieline anatomy?
Drawing your own dieline for production. Placing text across folds.