File Setup Guide

Before uploading your file, check:

• Is the artwork the correct design?
• Is all text spelled correctly?
• Is the artwork sized close to the intended finished size?
• Is the file high enough quality for the final print size?
• Are important details away from the cut or trim edge?
• Does the design include extra background area if the artwork reaches the edge?
• Are QR codes or barcodes large, clear, and tested?
• Are any special instructions included in your order notes?

If you are unsure, upload the best version you have and explain your concern in the order notes.

Artwork generally falls into two categories: vector and raster.

Resolution describes how much real image detail is available for print.

Customers often say "DPI," but for uploaded artwork the more useful question is whether the file has enough pixels at the final printed size.

Changing a low-resolution file's DPI number does not add real detail. Enlarging a small image can make it look blurry, jagged, or pixelated.

For close-view print, higher effective resolution is usually better. Large-format products viewed from farther away may not need the same level of detail as small stickers or labels viewed up close.

If your design includes small text, logos, QR codes, barcodes, or sharp line art, use the cleanest source file available.

Bleed is extra artwork that extends past the final cut or trim edge.

Safe area is the space inside the final edge where important content should stay.

Bleed helps prevent unwanted white or material-colored edges when artwork reaches the edge. Safe area helps protect text, logos, QR codes, borders, and important details from being too close to the cut or trim line.

For die cut stickers, the same idea applies around the actual cut shape, not just around a rectangle.

Do not assume one bleed measurement applies to every product. Product-specific requirements can vary, so review product instructions, templates, and proofs carefully.

Borders near the edge can make normal cutting variation more visible.

If your design uses a border:

• Avoid making it extremely thin.
• Keep it far enough from the cut line.
• Review spacing carefully on the proof.
• Consider a wider border or more open space for a cleaner result.

Thin lines, tiny details, and small type can also be difficult at small finished sizes.

Before uploading, check every line of text.

Look for:

• Spelling errors
• Missing punctuation
• Tiny text
• Low contrast
• Text too close to the edge
• Fonts that may not appear correctly if the file is not flattened, outlined, embedded, or packaged

If a specific font or text treatment matters, provide the cleanest source file available and mention any concerns in the order notes.

QR codes and barcodes need clean contrast and enough size to scan.

Before ordering:

• Test the code at the intended printed size.
• Keep it away from the cut or trim edge.
• Avoid placing it over busy backgrounds.
• Avoid low contrast.
• Mention scanning requirements in your order notes.

ZUG Monster can review the file setup, but you should test the code before uploading whenever possible.

Printed color can look different from what you see on a phone, tablet, or monitor.

Screens emit light. Printed products use ink on physical materials. Color can also be affected by material, finish, lighting, ink, and production process.

If color is critical, contact ZUG Monster before ordering. Do not rely on an ordinary screen proof as a perfect color match.

Specialty sticker materials can affect how artwork appears.

For example:

• Clear stickers may let the surface show through.
• Holographic stickers use an iridescent material effect.
• Chrome stickers use a shiny metallic look.
• Wood stickers use the material as part of the final appearance.

When ordering specialty materials, review contrast, white ink needs where applicable, and how the artwork interacts with the material.

Start with:

• Clear Stickers
• Holographic Stickers
• Chrome Stickers

Every order is handled through a real production workflow—not simply routed through an automated print queue.

After checkout, your artwork, selected options, quantity, and special instructions are used to prepare the order for proofing, production, quality control, and fulfillment.

Some orders are approved through an instant-proof process. If your artwork generates a clean proof and you approve it during checkout, your order may continue directly into production without a separate proof email.

Other orders require additional review, adjustments, clarification, or a separate proof before production begins. If something appears unclear or requires confirmation, the team may contact you or provide an updated proof before moving forward.

When proof approval is required, production does not begin until the proof is approved.

Before approving your proof, check:

• Final size
• Artwork placement
• Cut line or trim line
• Border spacing
• Text and spelling
• QR codes and barcodes
• Material choice
• Special instructions
• Any visible setup changes

If something looks wrong, request a revision before approving.

Upload the best version of your artwork and include any questions or special instructions with your order.

If the file requires additional review or adjustment, the team may provide an updated proof or contact you before production moves forward.

If you want help before ordering, contact ZUG Monster with your artwork and project details.