Turbo Charge Your Graphics Software

One feature many experienced CorelDRAW users may not be aware of is that the software can be automated using plug-in or add-on software. Using these plug-ins can really turbo charge it. These additional programs are easily added to your version and they can be powerful, using complex features that work with a single click.

A great example of a simple but useful plug-in for Corel is called Jigsaw Puzzle Creator. This free add-on software converts any CorelDRAW layout into puzzle pieces that are in a format ready for laser cutting. To create the puzzle transformation of the graphic layout, Jigsaw Puzzle Creator uses several different features in CorelDRAW and automates their use with a few simple settings. Personalized puzzles fit well into several markets including baby gifts and wedding gifts, and this add-on makes puzzles easy-peasy.

While the Jigsaw Puzzle plug-in solves a simple problem for Corel users, more full-featured plug-ins are also available. Smart Designer is ideal for personalized product makers of all types. Giftware, garments, and signage graphic layouts can all benefit from the capabilities of Smart Designer. Smart Designer comes complete with a full catalog of completed product designs that can be easily customized. Professional-looking special effects like drop shadows, tails, and text wrapping are easily created using an easy-to-follow interface. Packed with features for basic to advanced applications, Smart Designer is a great way to create complex designs faster using an extensive catalog of designs.

Dozens of CorelDRAW plug-ins are available, and most are free or available at a reasonable cost. A simple Google search for these tools for Corel will show add-ons that help create unique products and speed up art creation for laser projects.

-Mike Fruciano, Coherent