What Is Die Cutting?
Die cutting is the process of using sharp edged shapes to cut shapes out of a variety of soft to semi-rigid materials including paper, plastics, corrugated fiberboard, cloth, foam and more. These shapes are then used to create product packaging, greeting cards and other printed and handmade projects.
A die cut can be achieved through a number of different methods depending on the project, material and machinery being used. For example, some projects might benefit from the use of a perforating die to create a series of small holes aligned in a row on the face of the product while others might require the creation of a standard box score (a partial cut that does not fully separate the finished part from the stock material).
The type of metal used in the die also impacts how much pressure can be applied during the cutting process. Steel-rule dies are usually more durable as they are designed to be used on thicker materials or multiple cuts all at once while thin metal dies are typically more versatile and easier to store.
While most die cutting machines will come with all of the basic elements required to start making shapes, many manufacturers offer a wide range of add-ons for additional functionality. These accessories can include embossing folders, cutting pads and other tools that can help to ensure a quality result while adding extra creativity and versatility to the machine.
It is completely normal to hear a cracking sound when running a die through the machine. This is due to the sharp edge of the die cutting into the paper. This is nothing to worry about and does not mean that you have damaged the machine.
When designing a die to cut your paper or card, make sure that you add a bleed line to the design. This line should extend at least 1/16″ past the edges of the final shape so that any white space is avoided when printing or cutting. This will help to ensure that your finished piece looks professional and that no accidental white spaces are created.
What is the cost of a cutting die?
The price of a die varies according to how intricate the design is and what kind of machinery is being used. The more complex the design, the more labor and steel are needed to make it so this can increase the overall cost.
When calculating the cost of your die, remember that the initial purchase will be offset over time with repeated orders for the same design and material. This means that the cost of the steel can be spread out over several months or even years if you are ordering multiple copies of your design.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that the die is only as good as the quality of the material it’s being used on. If the material is too weak or delicate, it may tear or fracture during the cutting process and can leave an uneven and ragged finish on the final products. To avoid this, the manufacturer will often test out different materials and thicknesses before committing to a specific design.