Learning Programs
What you'll actually learn
These aren't overview courses. You'll work with real substrate specifications, understand press limitations, and figure out how to build boxes that don't fall apart when shipped across three countries.
Structural Foundations
Box construction from first principles. Die-cutting geometry, score line placement, material thickness calculations, and how different board grades behave under stress.
Print Production Mastery
Color separation for offset and flexo printing, spot varnish application, foil stamping registration, and working within the actual constraints of printing presses.
Material Selection Workshop
Choosing the right board weight for your application, understanding E-flute vs B-flute, working with recycled content requirements, and navigating sustainable substrate options.
How the programs work
Each course follows a structured approach. You start with core concepts, move into hands-on projects using industry-standard software, and finish with portfolio pieces that demonstrate actual competence.
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completed projects
Technical foundation
Learn the math behind dieline construction, understand material properties, and study how packaging physically comes together on a production line.
Software application
Use Illustrator and specialized CAD tools to build precise dielines. Work with actual measurement constraints and manufacturing tolerances.
Print preparation
Prepare files for different printing methods, set up color separations, and create print-ready artwork that won't get rejected by production facilities.
Portfolio development
Build case studies showing your design process, technical specifications, and final production files that demonstrate job-ready skills.
Detailed curriculum breakdown
Each program has a specific focus. Pick the one that addresses what you need to learn right now. You can take multiple courses, but they're designed to work independently.
Structural Foundations — 8 weeks
Box geometry fundamentals and basic dieline construction principles
Score line positioning, glue flaps, and structural reinforcement techniques
Lock mechanisms, tuck closures, and self-locking box designs
Insert design, dividers, and internal support structures
Display boxes, shelf-ready packaging, and retail presentation structures
Compression testing, drop testing, and structural integrity verification
What you'll be able to do
Build structurally sound box designs from scratch. Calculate material requirements accurately. Create dielines that manufacturers can actually produce without modifications. Understand why certain structures work better for specific products and shipping conditions.
Print Production Mastery — 10 weeks
CMYK separation, spot color usage, and Pantone matching systems
Offset lithography setup, flexographic printing constraints, and press limitations
Spot varnish application, UV coating, and aqueous coating specifications
Foil stamping registration, embossing depth control, and multi-level embossing
Bleed zones, trim marks, registration marks, and color bars
Pre-flight file checking, press-ready PDF export, and supplier communication
What you'll be able to do
Prepare artwork that prints correctly the first time. Set up files for different printing methods without trial and error. Communicate effectively with print vendors using proper technical terminology. Troubleshoot common production issues before they happen.
Material Selection Workshop — 6 weeks
Board weight specifications, caliper measurements, and thickness standards
E-flute, B-flute, C-flute differences and appropriate usage scenarios
Coated vs uncoated board, clay coating, and surface finish options
Recycled content requirements, FSC certification, and sustainable sourcing
Moisture resistance, grease resistance, and barrier coating applications
Cost analysis, material yield optimization, and supplier negotiation basics
What you'll be able to do
Choose the right substrate for specific product requirements and budget constraints. Understand trade-offs between material cost and performance. Navigate sustainability requirements without compromising structural integrity. Work confidently with material suppliers and procurement teams.