Quickstart
This guide walks you through CraftStage's core workflow — from creating a job to downloading a laser-ready file. By the end, you'll have a production-ready SVG or PDF export.
Prerequisites
Before you start, make sure you have:
- A CraftStage account (sign up at the homepage if you don't have one)
- At least one template uploaded (or use one of the included sample templates)
- A list of names or data to personalize — an email, Excel file, or just a text list
Step-by-step
Create a new job
From the dashboard, click Create Job. Enter the customer name and email address — these are the only required fields. You can add a reference number and due date if you have them, but they're optional.
Add your data
After creating the job, the parse dialog opens automatically. You have two options:
- Paste Text — Copy and paste directly from an email, a text document, or any source. CraftStage's AI will extract the names and fields.
- Upload File — Drag and drop an Excel (.xlsx) or CSV file.
Click Parse and wait a few seconds. CraftStage will show you the extracted results with confidence indicators — green checkmarks for high-confidence items, yellow flags for items that need review.
Review any flagged items, edit if needed, then click Add to Job.
Select a template
On the job detail page, choose a template from the dropdown. The template defines the physical dimensions, text field positions, fonts, and overflow policies for your items.
Run preflight
Click the Preflight tab to validate all items against the template. CraftStage checks for text overflow, missing required fields, font availability, and more.
If there are errors (shown in red), click on each issue to edit the item and fix it. Preflight re-runs automatically after each fix.
When errors reach zero, you're clear to export.
Generate proofs (optional)
If you want to preview the output or send it to your customer for approval, click Generate Proofs. Proof images appear progressively as they're generated.
To get customer approval, click Send Approval to generate a shareable link. Your customer can review and approve each proof through the link without needing an account.
Export
Click Export to open the export dialog. Select your machine profile (or configure one), choose SVG or PDF format, and pick your text mode — Curves is recommended to avoid font issues.
Click Export and download the file when it's ready. Open it in CorelDRAW and send it to your laser.
Next steps
- Learn about Key Concepts like overflow policies and text modes
- Read the full Core Workflow documentation for details on each pipeline stage
- Follow the First Trophy Order guide for a complete real-world walkthrough