What do you mean by requiring CMYK vs. RGB color mode in label designs?

RGB and CMYK are two different ways of reproducing colors that can be seen by the human eye. RGB color mode refers to a method of mixing Red, Green, and Blue light in different amounts to create a nearly unlimited spectrum of colors. This is the primary way colors are projected by electronic devices such as computer monitors, smartphones, and television screens – which emit light onto our eyes to create the impression of colors.

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CMYK refers to the reproduction of colors on printed surfaces, where light isn't actually projected into our eyes, but instead is reflected off of a surface like paper or a label. 

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The colors printed on our labels are created using CMYK color mode. Most graphic software that can be used to create label artwork allows the user to create their art in either RGB or CMYK mode. We request that artwork submitted to us be provided in CMYK because converting from one mode to another after the fact can cause color shifts and other unpredictable results.

What is a "bleed"?

It's very difficult, if not impossible to consistently print exactly to the edge of a label. In order to achieve the appearance of a color or background extending to the edge of a label, artwork is actually printed beyond the edge of where the label will be trimmed – a background or color is printed to "bleed" over the edge of the label. When a label with a bleed is peeled from its backing, color or graphics appear to the very edge of the label. We ask for background art or graphics which are intended to bleed extend at least 1/8" beyond the intended trim edge of the label.

What is "Clear Space"?

Cutting dies used to trim your labels can move slightly during the manufacturing process. It's necessary to keep important type or graphics at least 1/16" away from the edge of your label, otherwise it's possible your art could inadvertently be cut off. This 1/16" area of space between all of your critical art and type and the edge of your label is the "clear space". It's to be kept clear of any important content on your label.

What software do you recommend for creating label artwork?

We recommend creating your label artwork in Adobe Illustrator and providing your art to us as Adobe Illustrator files. Label artwork can be created using other software such as Photoshop, Corel Draw, or InDesign, but in our experience each of these have drawbacks that can cause delays or unintended results in your printed art. Some file formats that could be used to create label designs (such as Microsoft Word format) are incompatible with our production process.

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