I’d like to suggest a feature that allows selected objects to be automatically distributed across a configurable grid layout using defined grid centre points.
Current Workflow
At the moment, this can be achieved manually by:
Creating guides or reference points
Positioning objects individually
Using alignment/distribution tools repeatedly
While workable, it becomes time-consuming and error-prone when arranging large numbers of objects or frequently repeating production layouts.
Proposed Feature
Add a tool that:
Takes a group of selected objects
Distributes them automatically over a grid
Allows the user to define:
Number of rows and columns
Grid spacing or exact centre coordinates
Whether objects are placed row-first or column-first
Batch production workflows where identical spacing is required repeatedly
Why This Would Help
This would significantly speed up production setup and reduce manual alignment work, especially for users handling repetitive layouts or high object counts. It would also complement the existing alignment and array-style functionality already present in LightBurn.
Even though this can currently be done manually, automating it would improve workflow efficiency and consistency considerably.
I use grid array a lot, but it cant take a group of different objects and sort them into a grid pattern, Grid Array is more for creating a grid from either a single or multiple objects, but not putting each object at a point within that grid.
I did try to build an online app that does what I want, but the copy function is unique to Lightburn, so I couldn’t copy from lightburn and paste into the app, I tried selecting a group of grouped objects and exporting as an svg and importing them into the app, but there were issues with only breaking the parent group and leaving the child groups combined, it worked well on single objects but not grouped objects.
Try creating a grid of boxes the necessary size, Place the array on a tool layer, then using alignment tools center each item within the boxes. When you have everything positioned you can delete the tool layer if desired.
I realize this isn’t automated and you have to move each item individually, but it should give the desired results.
The feature request may still be in pre-approved mode. Yes I do often create a grid and then align individual objects to each one, when I may be fifty or so, it’s a bit of a pain. I’ll have a look at the system copy function, it might revitalise the app I was working on.
