# Blank

> A blank is the flat piece of material cut to shape before it is folded or assembled into packaging.

Canonical: https://dielinemaker.com/glossary/blank
Last updated: 2026-10-26

Geometry

## What it means in packaging

The blank includes panels, flaps and tabs. Its overall width and height describe its flat footprint, which can be much larger than the assembled box. A package with a separate lid and base requires more than one blank.

## A practical example

A shallow mailer may fit a small product while its open lid and side walls make the blank several times wider than the finished box.

## What to check

Compare the full blank, including bleed and production gaps, with the usable sheet or cutter bed.

## Use it in your project

- [Templates, dimensions and options](https://dielinemaker.com/learn/templates-and-dimensions)
- [Mailer box template](https://dielinemaker.com/dielines/mailer-box)

## Related terms

- [Dieline](https://dielinemaker.com/glossary/dieline) — A dieline is a flat drawing that identifies where a package is cut, creased, perforated and assembled.
- [Imposition](https://dielinemaker.com/glossary/imposition) — Imposition arranges one or more designs on a production sheet for printing and subsequent cutting or finishing.
- [Glue flap](https://dielinemaker.com/glossary/glue-flap) — A glue flap is an extra strip of a packaging blank that bonds to another panel to form a seam.

## Related

- [Packaging glossary](https://dielinemaker.com/glossary)