Die cutting is the use of sharp steel rules or knives used to cut a specific pattern into the paper. A plywood base has the pattern cut into it, and the rules are inserted into these cuts. This die can then be used to cut the same shape or pattern out of thousands of sheets, ensuring a consistent, clean cut.
Die cutting is often used in packaging, where the “net” of the box or carton can be cut out of the sheet. Creases can be added at the same time by having the rules shorter and blunter, creating a score instead of a cut. One of the most common jobs to be die cut are Corporate folders, which have a pocket to hold information and possibly some slits to hold a business card.
Die cutting can also be used to great effect to make your project stand out. Aperture windows, unique shapes, circular business cards – there are thousands of possibilities. Generally dies are bespoke to a job, but we do keep a range of stock dies, so it’s worth checking if we have something in stock that meets your needs.
We have an extensive range of corporate folder dies and most common shapes which you can find here. If we don’t have exactly what you need, we can get a new die made up especially for your job by one of our trusted suppliers – all members of the Guild of Master Craftsmen. If you are unsure on how best to make a die, we have a guide here.
