Packaging Decoration Glossary

An AI file is an Adobe Illustrator file format commonly used for vector artwork. AI files are preferred for screen printing projects because they contain scalable vector paths that can be reproduced accurately during production.

Color matching is the process of reproducing a specific color standard across packaging components. Brands often use Pantone references, physical samples, or approved color standards to maintain consistency across products and future production runs.

An EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) file is a vector artwork format widely used in printing and packaging production. EPS files allow artwork to be scaled without losing quality.

Font outlining converts text into vector shapes. This prevents font substitution issues and helps ensure artwork appears exactly as intended during production.

Frosted glass creates a soft, translucent appearance that diffuses light while maintaining partial visibility through the container. Frosted finishes are commonly used for candle vessels, fragrance packaging, and luxury product lines.

A gloss finish creates a smooth, reflective surface that enhances color vibrancy and visual impact. Gloss finishes are commonly used in retail packaging and premium product collections.

Lead time refers to the amount of time required to complete a project from approval through production. Actual lead times vary based on project requirements, production schedules, materials, and order quantities.

A matte finish creates a non-reflective appearance with a softer visual texture. Matte finishes are often used in luxury, wellness, and minimalist packaging applications.

A matte finish creates a non-reflective appearance with a softer visual texture. Matte finishes are often used in luxury, wellness, and minimalist packaging applications.

MOQ stands for Minimum Order Quantity.

An MOQ represents the minimum number of units required for a specific product, decoration, or SKU. MOQ requirements help support production efficiency and project viability.

An opaque coating provides full color coverage that conceals visibility through the glass. Opaque finishes are commonly used when brands want bold, saturated colors and strong visual impact.

A Pantone Color is a standardized color reference used throughout the design, printing, and manufacturing industries. Pantone standards help improve color consistency across packaging projects.

A production run refers to the manufacturing process used to produce a specific quantity of finished products during a scheduled production cycle.

Sampling is the process of producing a limited quantity of product for review before full production begins. Samples allow brands to evaluate color, decoration quality, component compatibility, and overall presentation.

A screen charge is a setup fee associated with creating the screen used during screen printing. JAFE’s standard screen charge is $50 per design and screen location.

Screen printing is a decoration process that applies artwork directly to the surface of a container using a custom production screen. It is commonly used for logos, product names, graphics, and decorative elements on glass packaging.

SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit.

A SKU represents a unique product configuration. Differences in color, decoration, fragrance, vessel style, or packaging components may create separate SKUs.

Spray coating is a decorative process that applies color or specialty finishes directly to the surface of a glass container. Spray coating can create transparent, opaque, matte, gloss, and frosted-style finishes.

A transparent coating adds color while allowing light to pass through the container. Transparent finishes are commonly used for candle vessels because they preserve candle glow while adding visual interest.

Vector artwork is artwork created using mathematical paths rather than pixels. Vector files can be scaled without losing quality and are the preferred artwork format for screen printing projects.

A vector PDF is a PDF file that contains scalable vector artwork rather than pixel-based images. Vector PDFs are often accepted for production when properly prepared.

Artwork approval is the process of reviewing and confirming production artwork before manufacturing begins. Approval helps ensure decoration specifications match project requirements.

Direct-to-glass decoration refers to decoration methods applied directly to the surface of a glass container rather than through labels or secondary applications. Screen printing is one of the most common direct-to-glass decoration methods.