Can artwork start before the dieline is final?

A concept can begin, but production artwork should be placed on the confirmed dieline revision.

Is a blank sample enough?

It can confirm structure and fit, but it does not approve print color or finish.

What happens if the material changes?

The structure, scores and finished dimensions may need review, and any prior sample approval should be reconsidered.

01Factory Knowledge

From Dieline to Finished Box

Follow a custom paper box from structural brief and dieline review through printing, die cutting, converting, sample approval and production handoff.

Send Your Packaging Specifications Decision Center

Buyer decision supportFoshan, Guangdong, China

Paper packaging converting process with printed sheets and die-cut box components

Direct answer

What should a buyer know first?

A production-ready box begins with the product and structure, not artwork alone. The material is confirmed, the dieline is reviewed, artwork is placed on the correct faces, a suitable proof or sample is approved, and converting steps such as printing, die cutting, mounting or finishing follow the confirmed specification.

1. Translate the product into a structural brief

The brief records the packed product, internal dimensions, weight, orientation, opening, insert and delivery role. Reference photos are useful, but they do not replace dimensions and use conditions.

If the buyer supplies a dieline, the factory still needs to know which material and box style it was built for.

2. Confirm material and dieline

Material profile and direction affect folds, scores and finished size. Structural review checks panel relationships, locks, glue areas, windows and insert interfaces.

A blank sample can verify fit and assembly before color decisions are introduced. When the structure changes, the artwork file should be rechecked against the revised dieline.

3. Prepare artwork and the approval sample

Artwork must align to cut, fold, bleed and safe areas. Named colors, finishes and visible surfaces are identified in the handoff.

The approval method should match the decision: a blank sample for structure, a print proof for artwork direction, or a finished sample when surface and assembly must be reviewed together.

4. Convert, inspect and pack

Supported processes represented on the site include printing, die cutting and relevant converting/finishing operations. Production checks should compare the output with the approved specification and retained reference.

Packing requirements are part of the project: flat or assembled supply, bundle arrangement, labels and delivery details must be confirmed before dispatch.

Buyer checklist

Put these details in the brief

Product and use conditions
Confirmed internal dimensions
Selected material and direction
Approved dieline revision
Artwork and finish callouts
Sample, inspection and packing criteria

Buyer questions

Frequently asked questions

Can artwork start before the dieline is final?: A concept can begin, but production artwork should be placed on the confirmed dieline revision.
Is a blank sample enough?: It can confirm structure and fit, but it does not approve print color or finish.
What happens if the material changes?: The structure, scores and finished dimensions may need review, and any prior sample approval should be reconsidered.

Next decision

Dielines and templates Artwork guidelines Proofing and samples Kehong production process

Project-specific confirmation

Turn this decision into a packaging specification.

Send the product, dimensions, quantity, artwork status and destination. Unknown details can remain “to be confirmed.”

Request a Custom Packaging Quote