Coffee Bag Mockups and Artwork Guidelines
Get a free coffee bag mockup and dieline review in 24 hours. We accept AI, PDF and EPS files (layered PSD is also fine), in CMYK or Pantone, at 300 DPI, with 3 mm bleed, a 4–5 mm safe area, and 28 mm clearance for the degassing valve. If you only have a logo, we can still set up the layout.
Free Coffee Bag Mockup in 24 Hours
Even before final packaging artwork is ready, send us your logo and bag dimensions to receive a free 3D coffee bag mockup and exact AI/PDF dieline within 24 hours. The same dieline, 3 mm bleed, 4–5 mm safe area and 300 DPI artwork rules also apply to custom food pouches.
Pre-Press Technical Specification Summary
| Check Item | Required Specification | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| File Formats | Adobe Illustrator (.ai), editable .pdf, or .eps (layered PSD accepted at 350+ DPI) | Vector paths ensure razor-sharp small typography, roast notes and nutrition tables. |
| Color Mode | CMYK process color + optional Pantone (PMS) spot color callouts | RGB files shift noticeably when converted to CMYK inks on press. |
| Image Resolution | Minimum 300 DPI at 100% final print scale | Prevents pixelation or blurriness on photographic backgrounds and illustrations. |
| Bleed Zone | 3 mm (1/8 inch) beyond outer trim lines on all sides | Prevents unprinted white or film edges during high-speed pouch slitting. |
| Safe Area | Keep text/logos 4–5 mm away from heat-seal edges, gusset folds & tear notches | Heat-sealing jaws (5–10 mm wide) will crimp any text placed inside the seal zone. |
| Degassing Valve Clearance | Keep a 28 mm diameter clear zone around the valve center (typically 65–85 mm from top) | Prevents the one-way valve ring from embossing over key brand logos or text. |
| Typography & Line Weight | Convert all fonts to outlines (Create Outlines); minimum positive line weight 0.25 pt (0.5 pt reverse) | Eliminates missing-font substitutions and ink fill-in on dark backgrounds. |
Color, White Ink & Finish Layers
White Ink Underbase
When printing on natural kraft paper, brushed foil or clear window films, place a dedicated White Ink vector layer under areas where colors should appear opaque.
Clear Windows
Mark any transparent bean-viewing window on a separate layer labeled WINDOW - NO INK. Keep windows at least 12 mm away from side seals and zippers.
Rich Black vs. Text Black
Use C:0 M:0 Y:0 K:100 for small body text and barcodes. For large solid black backgrounds, use rich black (C:40 M:30 Y:30 K:100) for deep coverage.
Barcodes (UPC / EAN) & Regulatory Text
- Barcode contrast: Always print barcodes as 100% black bars on a solid white or high-contrast light box. Avoid red, metallic gold, or low-contrast kraft backgrounds behind bars.
- Barcode scaling: Keep standard UPC-A / EAN-13 barcodes at 80%–100% nominal size (minimum 30 × 20 mm including quiet zones) and orient bars vertically along the web direction when possible.
- Panel orientation on flat bottom & side gusset bags: Check our flat bottom bag and side gusset bag dielines carefully—bottom gusset panels and side gussets have specific fold directions that our team verifies on your 24-hour proof.
Artwork FAQ
What file format do you need for coffee bag printing?
We prefer editable vector files in Adobe Illustrator (.AI), print-ready PDF, or .EPS format, with all fonts converted to outlines and linked raster images embedded at 300 DPI.
How much bleed is required on a coffee bag dieline?
Extend all background colors and artwork at least 3 mm (0.125 in) past the outer cut line on all sides, and keep critical text and logos at least 4–5 mm inside the heat-seal and fold lines.
How do I set up a matte window or spot gloss finish?
Place clear windows, white ink masks (for kraft or metallic substrates), or spot UV areas on a separate, clearly labeled vector layer in your Illustrator file. If you only have a logo, our design team will set up the dieline layers for you free of charge.
Still choosing your bag structure? Read how to choose coffee bag materials or compare flat bottom vs. stand-up pouches.
Request a Free Mockup and Dieline