The Basics Of Die Cutting

By Author: reiko pena
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Die cutting is a simpler process than many people may think. It involves shapes or patterns being cut into various materials such as card or fabric. There are perhaps infinite uses for die cutting. The technique may be applied to packaging, labels, birthday cards and indeed a vast array of printer materials. The technique may be used for cutting both simple and elaborate shapes and patterns into materials for a pleasing visual effect.
One item or thousands
A die cut needs to be formed in order for die cutting effects to be completed. A Die Cutting Machine involves sharp metal blades which are formed into the desired shape and then mounted to a strong backing like wood. The resulting shape or pattern of the die cut is then applied to the material that is being cut. It’s possible to do this by hand or by a pre-programmed machine. The latter option is obviously more suited for cuttings that are going into mass production. Keylines need to be applied accurately to the materials that are being cut in order for the shape or pattern to be applied to the exact place desired on ...
... the material.
DIY or mass production
Die cutting may be used by individuals hoping to make a unique DIY gift for a friend, or in factories where thousands of versions of the same cut need to be made. The process can be likened to that of a cookie-cutter. Die cutting can only really be applied to flat objects, as 3-d objects require moulds in order for the same effects to be achieved. Within industrial settings, it’s likely that a computer will be used to achieve the results, but when small quantities of a cut are being produced it’s like that the mechanisms used will be operated by hand. When you hear the term ‘blank’ used to refer to the processes involved , this means the material that may have been cut but are yet to be decorated or ‘finished’. Key cutting is based on the principle too, but the targets of the die cutting process are vast and can vary from simple hand held items to large, industry-orientated products such as car parts too.