Quick Start
Overview of publishing Print CAD standards to your storefront as orderable packaging products with parametric sizing.
Custom Libraries is the administration module where Print CAD dieline files become orderable products on your storefronts. The workflow takes a parametric .pcad file created in Print CAD and configures it with customer-facing parameters, preset sizes, validation rules, pricing options, 3D panels, and fold animations — everything needed to sell custom packaging online.
Publishing Workflow
1. Upload
Start by importing a .pcad file from Print CAD or a .pn package file that bundles a dieline with its configuration. The .pcad file contains the parametric geometry — constraints, variables, and expressions that define how the dieline adapts to different dimensions.
See Upload File for details.
2. Configure Standard Information
Set the display name, assign a product category, choose measurement units (inches, millimeters, or centimeters), link an editor source product, and configure markup and dieline cost settings.
See Standard Information for details.
3. Define Parameters
The variables defined in the Print CAD file (length, width, depth, allowance, etc.) appear as parameters you can expose to storefront customers. For each parameter, set the min/max range, step increment, default value, display order, and whether it is static (hidden from the customer but used in calculations).
See Parameters for details.
4. Add Standard Sizes
Create preset size options that customers can select instead of entering custom dimensions. Standard sizes can include volume discount tiers for quantity-based pricing.
See Standard Sizes for details.
5. Configure Options
Bind product options for material selection, finish types, and add-ons. Static options define fixed configuration values that apply to all orders of this standard.
See Options for details.
6. Add Validation Rules
Define formulas that validate parameter combinations and display messages when customers enter values that cannot be produced. Rules prevent invalid orders before they reach checkout.
See Rules for details.
7. Set Up Auto Flute (Optional)
For corrugated products, configure automatic flute calculation based on material and size. The auto flute system selects the correct flute type using formula-driven ranges.
See Auto Flute for details.
8. Define 3D Panels
Map the dieline's flat geometry to selectable 3D surfaces. Each panel gets a label and becomes a designable area in the Print Editor where customers can place text, images, and graphics.
See Panels for details.
9. Configure Fold Animations
Set fold angles for each panel to create a step-by-step 3D folding animation. Customers see the flat dieline fold into the finished packaging shape on the storefront category page.
See Animations for details.
10. Test in Sandbox
Before publishing, use the sandbox to test parameter combinations with real-time SVG rendering. Adjust variables, preview the dieline at different sizes, and export print-ready PDF samples for physical proofing.
See Sandbox for details.
11. Assign to Product
Once the standard is configured and tested, associate it with a product in your storefront. The product's pricing calculator will use the parametric system to calculate blank sizes and generate dynamic quotes.
File Formats
| Format | Extension | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Print CAD File | .pcad | Native Print CAD file containing parametric geometry — constraints, variables, expressions, and line styles. This is the source file you create in Print CAD. |
| PrintNow Package | .pn | Bundles a .pcad dieline with all Custom Libraries configuration (parameters, sizes, options, rules, panels, animations). Use this to transfer a fully configured standard between storefronts. |
| Spreadsheet | .xlsx | Bulk import/export format for managing multiple standards at once. The Export function generates the template; edit it and re-import to create or update standards in bulk. |
Related Pages
- User Interface — Navigate the list, grid, and per-standard actions in the admin
- Upload File — Import .pcad and .pn files to create new standards
- Standard Information — Configure name, units, category, and editor link after upload
- Dieline Colors — Set spot color values used in dieline rendering and PDF export