Creating a dieline for packaging is one of the most important steps in the design process. A dieline is like a map or blueprint that shows how your packaging will look once it is cut, folded, and printed. Without a proper dieline, packaging designs can go wrong, leading to printing errors, extra costs, and wasted time. Thankfully, many software tools make it easier for designers to create accurate and print-ready dielines.
Best Packaging Dieline Softwares (Free & Paid)
In this blog, we will talk about the best software tools to create dielines for packaging, their features, and why they are useful for businesses and designers.
1. Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator is the most popular tool for creating dielines. It is widely used by packaging designers because of its precision, flexibility, and advanced vector design tools.
- You can draw dielines with exact measurements.
- It allows you to add cut lines, fold lines, bleed areas, and safe zones.
- You can also export the dieline in printer-friendly formats like PDF or EPS.
- Illustrator works well with other Adobe tools like Photoshop and InDesign, making it perfect for packaging projects.
If you want professional and detailed dielines, Illustrator is the best one to create a perfect dieline.
2. CorelDRAW
CorelDRAW is another vector design software that is great for creating dielines. It is very similar to Adobe Illustrator but is considered easier to learn for beginners.
- It offers powerful drawing and editing tools.
- You can easily create dielines with sharp edges and smooth curves.
- Supports multiple file formats for printers.
- It is also cost-friendly compared to Illustrator.
Many small businesses and designers prefer CorelDRAW for simple and affordable dieline creation.
3. Pacdora
Pacdora is an online platform for packaging design, mockups, and dieline templates.
- Large library of dieline templates (boxes, bags, trays, envelopes, etc.)
- Customizable dimensions and material thickness
- Print-ready files (PDF, SVG, PNG)
- 3D mockup preview with design upload
- User-friendly interface for beginners and professionals
Pacdora makes dieline creation simple, fast, and accessible for everyone.
4. ArtiosCAD
ArtiosCAD is a packaging-specific design software. Unlike Illustrator, which is made for general design, ArtiosCAD is created for packaging engineers and structural designers.
- It includes ready-to-use templates for boxes, cartons, and displays.
- You can create 2D dielines and then see them in 3D mockups.
- It also allows testing for folding and fitting before printing.
- Perfect for complex packaging designs such as retail displays, corrugated boxes, and folding cartons.
ArtiosCAD is a professional solution for packaging companies that need accuracy and 3D visualization.
5. Kasemake
Kasemake is another packaging design software often used in professional packaging industries.
- Offers a wide library of packaging templates.
- Supports both 2D dieline creation and 3D visualization.
- Works with cutting tables, making it easier for packaging manufacturers.
- Useful for designing retail packaging, corrugated cartons, and display units.
Kasemake is excellent for packaging companies that want speed and efficiency in dieline creation.
6. EngView Package Designer
EngView is a CAD-based packaging design software used by many packaging professionals.
- Comes with parametric design templates.
- Supports dieline drawing, editing, and 3D visualization.
- Works well with Adobe Illustrator for graphics.
- Helps in creating accurate packaging prototypes.
EngView is perfect for businesses that need both structural dielines and graphic design integration.
7. Boxshot (AI-Powered Tool)
Boxshot is a newer tool that uses AI and automation to create dielines and packaging mockups.
- You can generate dielines quickly with just dimensions.
- It allows you to see realistic 3D packaging models.
- Very beginner-friendly with drag-and-drop features.
- Great for quick presentations and design approvals.
Boxshot is ideal for startups and designers who want speed and simplicity.
Comparison Table of Best Dieline Software
Software | Best For | Key Features | Difficulty Level | Pricing |
---|---|---|---|---|
Adobe Illustrator | Professional packaging design | Vector precision, cut lines, bleed, safe zones | Advanced | ~$22.99/month |
ArtiosCAD | Structural packaging engineers | 2D & 3D packaging, ready templates | Professional | Custom license (expensive) |
CorelDRAW | Beginners & small businesses | Affordable, vector tools, easy export | Easy | ~$22.42/month or ~$299/year |
Pacdora | Quick online dielines | Automated dieline generator, 3D preview | Easy | Free plan + Paid from ~$19/month |
Kasemake | Packaging manufacturers | 2D & 3D, template library, cutting table support | Medium | Custom pricing |
EngView | Graphic + structural design | CAD + Illustrator integration, accurate dielines | Advanced | Custom pricing |
Boxshot | Startups & presentations | AI-powered, fast 3D mockups | Easy | ~$99 one-time or ~$19/month |
Custom Dieline Creation by Professional Designers
Custom dieline creation is the best choice when you need precision and tailored solutions that software tools can’t always provide:
- Professional expertise for accurate dielines
- Custom dielines based on exact product dimensions
- Suitable for rigid boxes, mailer boxes, and more
- Ensures precision, functionality, and durability
- Designs aligned with your brand identity
A dependable choice when you need more than automated tools. Choose HT Custom Boxes to get expert-designed dielines that bring your packaging ideas to life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right software tool for creating dielines depends on your needs. If you are a professional designer, Adobe Illustrator and ArtiosCAD are the best choices. For small businesses or beginners, CorelDRAW and Pakdora are easier to use. Companies that need large-scale packaging production often prefer Kasemake or EngView, while Boxshot is great for quick and realistic mockups.
No matter which tool you pick, having the right dieline software ensures that your packaging is accurate, print-ready, and cost-effective. At HT Custom Boxes, we use the latest tools and software to create high-quality dielines that bring your packaging ideas to life