How custom shapes work
Custom hang tags are cut to a vector cut path you supply within your artwork file. We recommend setting the cut path as a separate layer within your artwork file. The cut path must be vector, raster formats such as JPEG or PNG cannot be used to create an accurate cut line. When ordering, choose how you'd like to provide your artwork: Upload Now to attach your file immediately and proceed straight to checkout, Email Later to complete your order and email your artwork within 24 hours, or our Design My Artwork Service, where our professional designers create your artwork and custom cut path for you for a fee of £25+VAT, with initial concepts ready within 2-3 business days. Whichever option you choose, our artwork team will check your file and email you a PDF proof for approval before your order is printed.
Choosing your size
The maximum size for a custom shape is A3, the same as our standard die-cut shapes. There is no minimum size restriction beyond what is practical for your design, so custom-cut swing tags can be created at almost any scale within that maximum.
Designing a shape that cuts well
Rounded or more relaxed outlines cut more cleanly than sharp, acute angles or fine serrated edges. Intricate detail is still possible, but we recommend keeping your custom shape as simple as practical, avoiding very thin protrusions or tight internal corners, to achieve the cleanest possible cut edge.
Choosing the right material
The full range of materials is available for custom swing tag printing. Standard Silk is the most popular choice, smooth, full-colour print-ready, and cost-effective from 25 tags. Brown Kraft and Recycled board are widely used for artisan and eco-conscious product ranges. Textured stock is sourced from sustainably managed forests and is fully recyclable, giving it strong environmental credentials alongside a premium tactile finish. Foiled and Metallic options are popular for premium gift and wedding products. Waterproof polyester film is tear-proof and suited to outdoor products. Frosted film gives a semi-translucent premium finish suited to cosmetics and high-end gifting. Laminated (matt or gloss) provides excellent durability for tags that will be handled repeatedly.
Single or double-sided printing
Custom swing tags can be printed single or double-sided. Single-sided printing is the most cost-effective option and works well for simpler designs. Double-sided printing makes the most of your custom shape, ideal for displaying branding on the front with additional information on the reverse.
How to get the best print results
Custom printed swing tags are printed using full-colour CMYK or white ink on your chosen material. Supply artwork at a minimum resolution of 300dpi at the final print size. Your custom cut path must be vector and is best supplied as a separate layer within your file; AI, EPS, or vector PDF are accepted for the cut path. Print artwork itself can be supplied as AI, EPS, PDF, PSD, PNG, or JPEG. Keep critical content at least 3mm from the cut edge. 4pt is the minimum text size we can print for legibility; 8pt or above reads most clearly after printing and cutting.
Finishing options
Custom shape hang tags can be finished with any drill hole size and position, included within your artwork file or specified to our team if we are designing your artwork for you. Strings are available in 11 options, including natural cotton twine, jute twine, and snap-lock strings, attached or supplied individually. Eyelets are available in black, gold, and silver to reinforce the drill hole and fit a 4mm drill hole. If you are attaching tags using a Kimble gun with nylon fasteners, we recommend a smaller drill hole size of 3mm or 4mm to prevent the fastener from pulling through.
Frequently asked questions
How do I supply a custom shape for my swing tags?
We recommend setting your custom cut path as a separate layer within your artwork file. The cut path must be vector, raster formats such as JPEG or PNG cannot be used to create an accurate cut line. When ordering, choose to upload your artwork immediately, email it within 24 hours of completing your order, or use our Design My Artwork Service if you'd like our team to create it for you. Our artwork team will then check your file and email you a PDF proof for approval before printing.
Can Handy Tags design my custom shape for me?
Yes. Our Design My Artwork Service is available for £25+VAT, with our professional designers creating your artwork and custom cut path for you. Initial concepts are ready within 2-3 business days, and the service includes design revisions.
What is the maximum size for a custom shape?
The maximum size for a custom shape is A3, the same as our standard die-cut shapes.
Are there any limitations on the shape I can choose?
Almost any shape is possible. Rounded or more relaxed outlines cut more cleanly than sharp angles or fine serrated detail. We recommend keeping your design as simple as practical to achieve the best cut edge, though intricate detail is still achievable.
Is there an extra cost or longer lead time for a custom shape?
No. Custom cutting is a fully digital process, so there is no tooling fee. Custom shapes dispatch within the same 72 business hours as standard shapes, from PDF proof approval.
What drill hole options are available for custom shapes?
Any drill hole size and position is available for custom shapes. Include your chosen size and position within your artwork file, or let us know if we are designing your artwork for you.
What is the minimum order quantity?
The minimum order quantity is 25 custom swing tags. Quantities run from 25 up to 10,000+.
