Understanding Dielines for Screenprinting

So, you’ve made the decision to start your own private label cosmetics line, but now the packaging manufacturer is asking you to help them make a mockup of the actual label using something called dielines. Maybe they’ve even sent you some rectangles that look like this:

Note: Innacos Labs no longer offers packaging manufacturing

But what the heck are dielines, and why are they important?

This part of the process may seem a bit confusing, but – not to worry – Innacos Labs is here to help. We understand that the term dieline sounds technical. And, in truth, it is.

As Wikipedia explains, “A dieline is used in graphic design as a placeholder for assisting in the proper layout of a document that will be diecut as part of the finishing process. It is usually placed into the graphic's computer file as a separate layer for sizing and orientation purposes. A dieline is usually not printed on the final piece but is used to determine correct layout.”

Wait. Whaaaaat?

Still scratching your head? We don’t blame you. When you first set out on this exciting new business journey, the last things on your mind were graphic designs and computer files. But it’s really not as complicated as it sounds, especially when you have the experts at Innacos Labs to assist you.

Today, we’ll take you through the process and try to answer all your questions about using dielines in as simple terms as possible.

1. What Are Dielines?

If the definition from Wikipedia didn’t help you, don’t feel bad. It likely brought up more questions than it answered, and that’s probably because it is much easier to understand dielines if you can visualize the concept.

Watch this super short video to help you with that visualization:

It might be easier to remember it this way: dielines are guidelines. They are the blueprint for the labeling on your cosmetics packaging that will give your customers all the information they need in order to choose and use your product effectively.

You don’t need to fully understand how the graphic design process works. You just need to be able to visualize how the label will look.

2. Where to Find Dielines

Ask your packaging supplier to list the size of the screen-printing area for each item.

3. What Belongs on the Dielines?

Because there are FDA regulations to fulfill, this is a really important question to ask. Basically, you will want to include the following:

Frontside:

• Your brand logo

• Name of product

• Type of product

• Net weight of product

Backside:

• Directions and warnings (if applicable)

• List of Ingredients

• Name and place of business (with address)

**In addition, if your product contains any CBD (cannabinoid), you will want to follow state law by displaying the amount of CBD in the product.