Last Updated: 12/10/2025 10:04:05 PM

How do I set up a PDF for upload in the Online Editor?

Uploading a PDF is the best way to get total control over your sticker's shape. It allows you to define your own custom "cut line" (die-cut) exactly where you want it.

To ensure your file works perfectly in our Online Editor, your PDF needs to be formatted correctly.

General Checklist

• - One Page Only
• - One Die-Cut Path
• - Use a Spot Color for the Cut Line
• - Close Your Paths
• - Convert Fonts to Outlines
• - Bleed & Safety Guidelines
• - File Size Limit (Under 25 MB)

You've got the essentials—now let's get into the specifics. To guarantee your custom die-cut is precise and your colors are accurate, here is the step-by-step breakdown of each item on the list:

1. One Page Only

• Your PDF file must contain only one page.
• Why? Our editor cannot process multi-page documents (like booklets). If you have multiple designs, please save each one as a separate PDF file.

2. One Die-Cut Path

• You must have a single continuous vector path that serves as your cut line.
• This path must be a Stroke (outline), not a Fill.

3. Use a Spot Color for the Cut Line

• Your die-cut path must be set to a Spot Color.
• Important: Do not use a standard CMYK process color (such as black or cyan) for your cut line, as it will be printed as ink.
• Tip: You can name the Spot Color anything you want (e.g., "DieLine", "CutContour", or "StickerCut"), but make sure no other objects in your design use this same color.

4. Close Your Paths

• The die-cut line must be a closed path (a complete loop).
• Ensure there are no open ends, stray points, brush strokes, or "effects" (like drop shadows) applied to the cut line itself.

5. Convert Fonts to Outlines

• Select all text in your design and Create Outlines (or "Convert to Curves")
• Why? This turns your text into vector shapes so it prints exactly as you see it, even if we don't have your specific font installed.

6. Bleed & Safety Guidelines

• Bleed: If you want your color to go all the way to the edge of the sticker, extend your artwork background 1.58 mm (1/16") past your die-cut line.
• Safe Area: Keep important text and logos at least 1.58 mm (1/16") inside the die-cut line to prevent them from being accidentally trimmed.
• Standard Border: If you want a white border around your image, we recommend a thickness of 2.54 mm (1/10").

7. File Size

• Keep your final PDF under 25 MB.

Ready to Upload?

Once your file meets these specs:

1. Go to the StickerYou Online Editor.
2. Click Upload.
3. Select your PDF.
4. Our system will automatically recognize your Spot Color path as the cut line!

You can also download this PDF Requirements Guide for details on setting up your own custom die-cut in PDF format to upload in our Sticker Editor.

• Download PDF Guidelines