Why SampleMaker? - Packaging CAD for Purchasing & Production

This page is written for purchasing and management. SampleMaker is not cheap; it is inexpensive—there is a difference. SampleMaker's box and display library is built on a 35-year-old, production-proven packaging CAD system that now uses modern AI to reduce development costs, which is why it can be priced far lower than traditional, old-fashioned CAD built and maintained by large programming teams.

Compare SampleMaker to other systems

See how SampleMaker stacks up against ArtiosCAD, Impact, and EngView in terms of parametrics, standards, 3D, and pricing.

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What Does SampleMaker Actually Do?

Structural Packaging CAD, Not Generic Drawing Software

SampleMaker is specialized software for designing boxes and packaging structures.

                In day-to-day use, your team can:
                Create folding cartons and corrugated boxes that run correctly on machines
Design envelopes, mailers, displays, and custom die-cut shapes
Produce accurate, machine-ready dielines for cutting tables

            

From Screen to Cutting Table

Unlike general graphics tools, SampleMaker outputs files that go directly to sample tables and die-making equipment. That means fewer steps between design approval and a physical, testable sample.

                Typical flow:
                Designer builds a structural layout in SampleMaker
File goes straight to the cutting table
Sample folds, glues, and stacks correctly the first time when designed properly

            

Where AI Fits In

AI as a Force Multiplier, Not a Gimmick

Modern AI is now being used around SampleMaker to extend and automate what took years of manual coding in the past. The goal is not to cut corners, but to deliver high-end capabilities at a price point that would not have been possible 10—15 years ago.

Faster development of new parametric templates and box styles
Assistance in generating dielines and variations
Smarter defaults and guided workflows for designers

                For purchasing, this means:
                You are buying into a tool that is still evolving, not frozen in time
Long-term feature growth without the historical "enterprise CAD" price tag
A shorter payback period because design time drops as automation improves

            

One-Sentence Summary

SampleMaker, now enhanced with AI, is not a cheap toy but also no longer needs to cost thousands per seat, because AI-driven development makes it possible to deliver serious, production-grade CAD at a fraction of traditional CAD prices.

For current subscription details, see the Pricing section on the main SampleMaker page.

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Why SampleMaker Matters to Purchasing