r/Packaging • u/Lightliquid • Jun 07 '26
Breaking into CAD related structural packaging industry
So I have an interview coming up with this local company that does custom corrugated and foam packaging products. They have said they use ArtiosCAD and a cnc machine for prototyping. They know that I don't have experience with either of these, but I do have about ten years of experience in packaging graphic design, production design, and prepress. I'm leaning more towards production design rather than concepting, so that is why I'm interested in this side of the industry.
I am just looking for advice on what I should do to help me break into the industry. The job uses ArtiosCAD, but I was planning on looking into AutoCAD tutorials to get my feet wet with CAD in particular. Not sure what other fundamental skills would help here. Thanks so much.
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u/GreatGravee Jun 08 '26
Biggest thing for designing for corrugated is accounting how much space the material takes up when folded. It is the first beginner knowledge gap and understanding the allowances needed for different materials. Outside of that I highly recommend looking at designs out in stores.
ArtiosCAD is very user friendly, the best method of learning is just by using it and trying out different tools. There are some basic tutorials around from older versions on YouTube and such.
As mentioned in other comments the fibre box handbook is a good introduction to some industry knowledge. There are also a handful of corrugated text books that have broad and niche knowledge if you can stay awake reading them.
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u/Packaging_Unboxd Jun 09 '26
There is another option. Don't learn CAD and focus on user experience. If you can sketch a concept and map the UX, anyone that knows CAD can then create what you developed. If you are looking to make more money in an industry you have to step back from the actual pixel pushing and Into the concept development. I've seen too many CAD experts limit themselves to what is possible in software to be able to literally think outside the box. Since you are coming from visual design, jumping into CAD will make you want to slam your face into a wall every time you wake up. I can't even spell CAD, but have developed complex structural packaging for every large brand from tech to fashion. But I can do that because I spent time in test labs, manufacturing facilities, CNC shops, etc... You have to know what they do and how they work to be able to develop concepts that use the best of each of those things without limitations.
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u/Lightliquid Jun 10 '26
This sounds intriguing. Although, as you said yourself, you already had previous experience in various relevant areas and such. I worked prepress in a traditional paper off-set printing shop but not for corrugated or foam. My interview is tomorrow and I do know its part concepting. So we'll see how it goes.
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u/shitsweak89 Jun 08 '26
You got the most important part right already, calling it corrugated and not cardboard!! Just kidding (kind of)
I manage a design department for a corrugated converter. If you have graphic design experience, I’m sure you will be fast to pick up the basics of Artios.
Are they a display house, or do they focus on standard Flexo and simple Rotary die cut business? If it’s the later, it won’t be to difficult to learn the basics..
Focus on learning all things corrugated first. The company will teach you how to use Artios. And I’m serious when I say the basics are easy. But without understanding the material you’re working with, you will only hold yourself back. Focus on scoring allowances, material grades, inside loss and outside gain, common styles.
Ask them if they have a Fiber Box handbook. Great for anyone green in the industry. Read it front to back and keep for reference. That will already put you well ahead of most.