
These two layers are not for print purposes – only to help you visualize the end product while designing. We then made a clipping path of that shape on the paper layer so that with all layers turned on, the Illustrator file appeared like the finished label on the bottle – minus the PhotoShop effects. An image of the paper was placed on another layer – just for reference – along with the outer shape of the label. tif image of the bottle on its own layer and locked it. While working in Illustrator, it helps to be able to see your design on the actual bottle as you work. This part of the job is essentially a typical design/print job. Here, all of the type and design elements were created as vectors in Illustrator, and assigned the PMS spot colors that would be needed for offset printing. The handiest solution was to create the label in Illustrator, then manipulate that file into PhotoShop for the proofing and on-product look. The customer’s requirements were a matte finish paper with a die cut shape. The label design for this whiskey bottle began in Illustrator. When you return to prepare other labels, these files are invaluable time-savers. Using both programs in a coordinated way will leave you with a flexible set of files that can be used for offset or digital printing, wide format product displays, realistic proofing and any other application you might need.

Amazing effects can take a vector label file from the design stage to a true retail appearance and on-product photo.

On the other hand, PhotoShop is essential for realistic product presentation. The ability of vector artwork to be edited, printed in spot colors, redefined for other purposes and resized to any dimension without loss of resolution or quality makes it a versatile winner for multipurpose projects. What is the best approach for digitally sticking a label on a bottle? We need to create print-ready label files AND on-product demos for proofing those labels – a very common scenario for the designer. Moreover, our goal is also to end up with a usable set of files that are organized, fully editable and ready to be repurposed for any integrated marketing projects that lie ahead. OUR PROJECT: design a label and show it in use on the actual product.
