Nesting means arranging parts so that they take up the least amount of material possible. This can be done automatically with software, but for a clear design, you can also do it yourself.
When does smart nesting provide benefits?
Especially when shapes fit into open spaces of other shapes. Think of small parts in a large cutout or different rings nested together. More compact placement can also save material.
How to create a usable layout
- Group parts logically and keep the drawing clear.
- Place shapes compactly without unwanted overlapping lines.
- Check for duplicate lines; every superfluous line can cause extra laser time or an incorrect result.
- Leave sufficient space for a reliable cutting result and delicate details.
- Check the complete upload preview before ordering.
You don't need to draw a standard sheet
Do not add a rectangle to simulate an imaginary material sheet. The material calculation results from your parts and configuration. Focus your drawing on the parts that actually need to be produced.
Not every file needs to be maximally nested
For a single simple part, extra optimization work may yield little. For larger quantities, many variations, or shapes that fit well together, a compact layout is usually more valuable.