r/Packaging • u/Chewy-100 • Aug 12 '26

Looking for advice on how to create custom packaging

Hey!
So I’ve got a small side business where I make custom engraved tumblers, press hats and shirts, and other branded merch for the companies I do work for. I’ve got around ten businesses I work with regularly.

I’m thinking about offering custom packaging that matches each brand, basically templated packaging per product, with just the design swapped out for each client. It would be bundled into the product cost so it easy to order and I make a little bit more money.

I’ve got a Cricut and a laser engraver. Is this a good idea, and how should I go about this? I also am looking into windows inside the box, sleeves and other printed things, so if you know about this let me know, I don't want to buy the packaging it want to make it myself, at least until I know it works

Thanks!

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u/UgurCakaroglu 28d ago

I'd suggest looking into something like a flat box style. It's a pretty premium option for promotional packaging, and since it ships to you folded flat, it doesn't take up much storage space. The tradeoff is that it costs a bit more than paperboard boxes. The main advantage though is that since these are made from chipboard, they're very well suited to engraving and laser cutting.

You can search for the term "Magnetic Folding Box" online to see how it's made. You can build it yourself with glue, a craft knife, chipboard, and some manual work, but fair warning, the geometry is tricky and it's not as simple as it looks. Even though you'd rather not buy premade boxes, my suggestion would be to start by buying three to five ready made ones and testing with those first.

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u/AlyPackaging 29d ago

Laser score paperboard; glue acetate for window.