This article discusses the new features in the imposition editor, specifically focusing on the support for packaging and kiss-cut products, as well as the introduction of the "Impose nested" step for irregular shapes. It provides detailed explanations of how these features work, their settings, and practical tips for effective use.
New Product Types in Imposition Editor
The imposition editor now supports two new product types that can be selected when configuring a template:
Packaging (boxes, cartons, pouches) — This option supports dieline-based layouts, folding structures, bleed and safe zone rules specific to packaging, and appropriate cut marks.
Kiss-cut (stickers, labels) — This option allows for cut-through-top-layer cutting definitions, the correct cut mark type, and sticker/label-specific output configurations.
Output is validated against common packaging and label production standards, enabling standard configurations to work self-serve without requiring engineering involvement.
Impose Nested for Irregular Shapes
Products with custom contours, such as die-cut stickers, shaped labels, and packaging blanks, can now be imposed with their actual cut shapes using a new imposition step called Impose nested. This feature allows for the arrangement of shapes on the sheet to maximize material usage instead of placing artworks on a fixed rectangular grid.
How it works
To utilize the Impose nested step, add it to your imposition template. The step requires knowledge of where each artwork's cut contour is defined, which is referred to as the Contour Mode:
Spot color — The contour is a vector path drawn in a named spot color within the artwork (commonly used for die-cut and kiss-cut files, e.g.,
CutContour). Enter the exact spot color name in the Spot color name field for the editor to identify the shape.Path — The contour is derived from a vector path in the file rather than a spot color channel.
Settings Reference
Setting | What it does |
Margins (Left / Right / Top / Bottom) | Defines keep-out zones at the sheet edges in mm. Nesting occurs within these margins. |
Enable step | Toggles the nested imposition step on or off without removing its configuration. |
Image Area Width / Height | Specifies the usable area (in mm) for nesting artworks, e.g., 700 × 500 to match the sheet. |
Contour Mode | Indicates the source of the cut shape: Spot color or Path. |
Spot color name | Identifies the spot color that carries the contour (used with Spot color mode). |
Min Gap | Sets the minimum spacing (in mm) between neighbouring shapes to prevent overlapping cuts. |
Allowed Rotations | Specifies which orientations the nesting engine may use when placing shapes: 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°. Selecting multiple options allows for tighter nesting. |
Max Placements Per Sheet | Limits the number of copies of an artwork that can be placed on a single sheet. Leave empty for no limit. |
Back Page Flip | For double-sided products, determines how the back page is flipped relative to the front to maintain registration. |
Checking Your Result
The stats bar above the canvas displays sheet dimensions, total pages, quantity, total sheets, and Plate Utilization — the percentage of the sheet covered by placed artworks. This serves as a quick feedback loop while adjusting settings: allowing more rotations or reducing Min Gap typically increases utilization, while larger margins or placement caps decrease it. The preview feature shows the exact placement of each shape, enabling verification before saving.
Good to Know
Cut contours are preserved in the output on their spot color layer, ensuring compatibility with die-cut and laser-cut finishing equipment.
If the spot color name does not match what is in the artwork, the contour cannot be found. Double-check the exact name (case-sensitive) if shapes are not detected.
Nested imposition works alongside the new packaging and kiss-cut product types described above.
FAQ
What are the benefits of using the new packaging and kiss-cut product types?
These new types streamline the design process for packaging and labels, ensuring compliance with production standards and reducing the need for engineering support.
How does the "Impose nested" feature improve material usage?
This feature allows for the arrangement of custom-shaped artworks in a way that maximizes the use of the material, reducing waste and improving efficiency.