A way to nest objects on artboards
Idea: Take multiple objects, such as multiple copies of a logo or elements and nest them within an artboard, and say how much space you want between objects.
Reason: When it comes to signs or sending a print job to a plotter, sign makers want to maximize the number of objects on a vinyl. Sure we can manually move objects or even use the distribute tool, but this takes too long and sometimes when selecting multiple objects you can not use the distribution tool to distribute both vertical and horizontal at the same time or objects in he middle.
Solution. There are companies out there with plugins, however they are expensive and only work on Windows computers. it would be easier for Illustrator to just have the feature built-in. to use on all platforms.
Sample video of how it works
nitesh jivan
shared this idea
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Andrew R commented
As a designer and stock illustrator, I had the exact same idea. I already had JSX scripts for bounding-box-based nesting, so I decided to combine my work into a full-fledged Adobe Illustrator plugin - but with the addition of true-shape nesting. That is how Arrange Master was created.
It was built specifically to address the points you mentioned: it works natively on both macOS (Apple Silicon & Intel) and Windows, and it is an affordable one-time purchase ($39) rather than an expensive enterprise subscription.
It does true-shape nesting where you define the exact spacing (in mm, pt, or inches) to tightly interlock irregular vector objects and minimize vinyl waste on a plotter.
A few other features that might be useful for your workflow:
• Multi-layer retention: Keeps your CUT contours, PRINT graphics, and marks on their original layers after nesting.
• Vector gravity (X and Y axes): Allows you to pack items directionally to keep print runs as short as possible on roll media.
• Other modes: Includes Knolling, structured Grids with square cells, and packing inside custom vector containers.There is a free demo version available on the website (andrewr.online) if you want to test how it handles your cut files first.
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jquest commented
6 years later, and I still agree!
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Staff_BU
commented
Hi. We just released the nesting plug-in for Illustrator. Check it out.
AI Nest-Pro by Baby Universe
https://baby-universe.co.jp/en/plug-ins/cad/ainest-pro/ -
LC, there is eCut plugin for Ai, that does it, and CorelDraw’s package is even more powerful.
The problem with nesting is that it’s quite complex problem...
eCut solves it fine, but not perfect. Voted. -
LC
commented
Illustrator needs the ability to perform efficient object nesting. This would greatly help in making files for printing and cutting as well as saving loads of time. Please add nesting to Illustrator!
