3 Dimentional Pieces

[amyadelaide]

I'm just curious if Quark is used to layout 3 dimentional pieces, like a box for example used in a direct mail piece. If Quark is not used, could someone kindly tell me what programs are used for this type of work?

thank you!

 

[blueark]

Yes, Quark is used for all sorts of layouts, including boxes and other packaging. It isn't as easy as normal page layouts because you have to design the piece as if it has been layed out flat. Only after it has been printed is it cut out, folded and glued into a 3D piece.

If you have something specific in mind, go to your printer and see if they have any templates made up that you can use. Once you get the hang of it, you can make up your own templates. I think I once heard of more specialised software for the task, but I've never seen it in action.

 

[GeorgeMack]

I have done this in Quark, and also in Illustrator.

Be aware that there are a lot of technical issues in making boxes having to do with folding radiuses, flaps, bleeds, and die tolerances. Having a template from your printer saves you from having to learn all of it at once.

Being able to work in layers (as in Illustrator, or in Quark with certain Xtensions) is a great convenience, since you aren't bumping into construction and die lines all the time.

Layouts for (larger) boxes can be sprawling, and the larger pasteboard that Illustrator offers can be useful. The alignment and pathfinder tools are also a little more useful, though Quark is catching up a little here.

Good luck, and remember that a phone call to your printer to setttle questions is a lot cheaper than rerunning a job¡