Box Template Creator

How It Works

This tool generates unfolded (die-cut) patterns for common box shapes using geometric coordinate math. Given the interior dimensions of your desired box, it calculates the exact flat layout including:

• Cut lines (solid) — where you cut with scissors, blade, or laser
• Fold lines (dashed) — where you score and fold the paper/cardboard
• Glue tabs — extra flaps for adhesive assembly

The paper thickness compensation is calculated using the formula: compensation = thickness × π × 0.5 per fold. This ensures that when thick cardboard is folded, the outer surface doesn't stretch or the inner panels don't overlap.

All dimensions are in millimeters, and the exported SVG/PDF maintains 1:1 scale — meaning you can print it and use it directly as a cutting template.

How to Use This Calculator

1. Choose your box type — Tuck End for retail-style boxes, Lid and Base for gift boxes, Drawer for sliding trays
2. Enter interior dimensions — the Length, Width, and Height of the space inside the box
3. Set paper thickness — measure your cardstock with calipers (common: 0.3mm for paper, 1-2mm for cardboard)
4. Adjust glue tab width — 15mm is standard; reduce for small boxes, increase for heavy items
5. Preview the template — the SVG updates in real time as you adjust inputs
6. Download — choose SVG for laser cutting or PDF for hand cutting (prints at 1:1 scale)

Tips & Safety Notes

• For clean folds, score the fold lines with an empty ballpoint pen or bone folder before folding.
• Grain direction matters: cardboard folds more cleanly along the grain. Orient your template accordingly.
• For boxes larger than A4/Letter paper, print the PDF across multiple pages and tile them, or use a plotter.
• The glue tab width should be at least 10mm for structural strength but no more than the shortest panel dimension.
• Test your template with cheap paper first before cutting expensive cardstock.
• Laser cutters: import the SVG and assign cut lines and fold/score lines to different layers/colors.

FAQ

How does paper thickness affect box templates?

Paper thickness creates a bend compensation factor at each fold line. Thicker paper needs more material at folds to prevent the box from being too tight. This calculator automatically adds the correct compensation. For example, 1mm cardboard adds about 1.57mm per fold.

What box types can I generate?

This tool supports three common styles: Tuck End (standard retail box with interlocking top/bottom flaps), Lid and Base (two-piece box where the lid slides over the base), and Drawer (open-top tray that slides into a sleeve). Each produces a different unfolded geometry.

Can I use the SVG output with a laser cutter?

Yes. The SVG uses actual millimeter dimensions and separates cut lines (solid black) from fold/score lines (dashed blue). Import into LightBurn, RDWorks, or similar software and assign each line style to different cutting/scoring parameters.

What paper weight should I use for boxes?

For small gift boxes, 250-350 gsm cardstock works well. For shipping or heavier items, use 600+ gsm corrugated cardboard. The calculator's paper thickness input handles fold compensation regardless of material weight.

How do I account for printing when making templates?

Print your design on flat cardstock before cutting. The template's cut and fold lines can be printed as a guide layer (light gray or registration marks) on the reverse side, or used as a separate cutting guide layer in your print file.

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Last reviewed: June 2026