Die Cutting Explained
What is Die Cutting?
Die cutting is an industry process that allows us to create custom shaped posters. We create a metal ‘die’ in the desired shape, and using an industrial die cutter, this ‘punches’ out the shape in the paper. Imagine a giant custom shaped hole punch – the ‘punch block’ can produce the templated shape in the material provided.
This is a cost effective method for producing lots of custom posters in identical shapes. Instead of using a digital cutter (which is time consuming), the die cut is instantaneous.
Die cutting can also be used practically – to create pockets, cut outs and custom shaped outlines within a printed product.
Die cut block
Block mounted on platten
Custom cut boxes
What are the pros of die cutting?
– Create identical printed shaped posters in one fell swoop
– Quicker than waiting for a digital cutter to meander its way along a design
– Once the die is created, the cost becomes lower
– Fantastic results on paper and card.
What are the cons of die cutting?
– Initial set up costs are expensive as the die must be made from scratch
– Die cutting doesn’t work as well on thicker materials. It isn’t suitable for materials below 170gsm and above 500gsm.
Digital die cut paper and card
We can now offer digital die cutting which is speedy, cost effective and bypasses the requirement of a die block to be created.
This technique cannot yet match the output volume of regular die cutting, but for lower print runs or prototypes of larger posters, this is a good option.
Digitally cut cake box
If you have any more questions about die cutting, traditional or digital call us on 023 8087 8037 or email us.