How to indicate a cut out for a product window

Question

I just started learning package design. I have finished my artwork and want to send the final file to the customer.

The design has a product window. How should I indicate this layer in Illustrator? How do I tell the printer they have to cut this shape out?

Hi Keemie. Can you indicate if this is a box or a label? Were you provided with a technical drawing (of the cutting die)? — Kris Van Bael, Mar 23, 2019 at 22:28

Lucian · Accepted Answer · 2019-03-25 20:10:09Z

6

Use a separate layer for the cut out (window) artwork and move this on top of the layer stack.
Apply a distinct color swatch to the outline of this window shape and make it a spot color.
Select this shape and set it to 'Overprint Stroke' in the 'Attributes' panel.

answered Mar 23, 2019 at 16:47

Lucian

28.9k13 gold badges51 silver badges101 bronze badges

5

Magenta is what we always used, because I can't recall a single print job in 10 years which used magenta as an actual color in the job. The layer was also called something like WINDOW DO NOT PRINT.
– Lauren-Clear-Monica-Ipsum
Mar 23, 2019 at 17:38
I would not use Magenta as such, but a magent-ish spot color. So the color selection is untouched and a spot ink pops as a separate plate if someone did not see the "do not print me" sign.
– Rafael
Mar 27, 2019 at 17:23

Add a comment |

Rafael · Accepted Answer · 2019-03-24 04:48:41Z

2

I must make a warning.

A window is not made just because. Every wall forms an intrinsic part of the structure of the box.

The answer is really simple. The window is presented exactly the same way as the dies or cuts of the full box.

Do you know how to prepare all the project? And how to structure a box? If you do not, ask the printer to prepare the diagrams for you.

answered Mar 24, 2019 at 4:48

Rafael

35.1k2 gold badges36 silver badges93 bronze badges

Add a comment |

2 Answers 2