Software for Packaging Workshop

Notes
Nets can be found on-line as vector/pdf downloads.
You can laser cut nets.

Making a jack-in-the-box net
Open Adobe Illustrator.
A3 Document.
Draw a box across the whole page - object - path - split into grid.
Call this layer Guides.
Type in the amount of columns and rows you need - 2 and 2.
Can add guides - extra length off the end of the guidelines.
Double click thumbnail - click template - this locks the layer.

New layer - call this Net.

Square - hold alt - click the centre - 70 x 70 mm.

 

Hold alt key to move and duplicate the square - hold shift to keep in the centre.

Do the same either way - makes a cross in the middle of the page.

To make the tabs

Rectangle tool - 70 (same as square height) x 15 mm - makes a square tab.

Select two end anchor point - select top right - hold shift - select bottom right.

Top bar - curve the corners to 15mm.

Select the two tabs - select one - hold shift and select the other.

Click rotate tool - the left toolbar - hold and choose the reflect tool.

Hold alt and click on the middle line to create a pivot - choose vertical option and copy.

Could also put flaps on the sides to help the box stay shut.

Need to create an outline to the whole shape - can be used on a laser cutter.

Select - All.

Edit - Copy.

Create new layer - fold guides 1.

Edit - Paste in place.

Lock and hide this layer - go back to net layer.

Window - Path finder - Select - All.

Unite button in the path finder.

Lock net layer.

Go back to the Fold guides 1 - Unlock and reveal layer.

Select - All.

Opacity - reduce opacity to around 10% - creates fold lines.

Select - All.

Stroke Panel - click - dashed line.

Little circle next to the layer - selects the layer.

Click the square with the red line through it on the left (colours) to make layers transparent - get rid of white shape.

Select the fold guides 1 layer - object - group.

Unlock all layers - inc. guides.

Select the artboard tool on the left toolbar.

Press and hold alt - drag onto the art board.

Name the second box - Outside box.

New Layer - Fold Guides 2.

Lock all other layers.

Use the pen tool to create guidelines where the dashed lines are.

New Layer - Artwork.

Can change the colour of the layer from yellow - double click the layer.

File - Place - Drag image over the net - embed (top panel).

If you have a net that isn't symmetrical then you have to reflect the shape.

Remember to click use the artboards when saving.