Finalizing Packaging Artwork

Summary

Steps for preparing a finalized packaging artwork file so it is print-ready and cleanly separated from template guides and reference art before sending to order.

Steps

1. Save As from the "FINAL" .ai file.
   • Add "ORDER" to the end of the file name.
2. Make sure template lines are on a separate layer than the packaging artwork, and lock the whole layer.
3. Make sure any extra art or references are on a separate layer than the packaging artwork, and lock the whole layer.
4. Unlock all objects — Object > Unlock All.
5. Delete all hidden objects (unused objects hiding in the artwork layers).
   1. Unhide all hidden objects — Object > Show All.
      • This shows and selects all hidden objects.
   2. Delete the selected objects.
6. Expand artwork.
   1. Select all packaging artwork.
   2. Convert all text to outlines — Shift + Cmd/Ctrl + O (Type > Create Outlines).
   3. Object > Envelope Distort > Expand
   4. Object > Path > Outline Stroke
   5. Object > Expand Appearance
7. Review artwork.
   1. Review a few strokes, texts, envelope distorts, and effects to confirm they were properly expanded.
   2. Review all art to make sure nothing looks visually different.
   3. Review any nutrition facts / ingredients for accuracy by comparing against the reference.