Die cutting is a manufacturing process used to cut, shape, or punch materials—like paperboard, cardboard, plastic, or even fabric—into precise, repeatable shapes using a specialized tool called a die.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
How It Works
The Die: Think of it like a giant cookie cutter made of sharp steel blades bent into the exact outline of your design (e.g., a box template, logo shape, or window cutout).
The Press: The die is mounted onto a press. Sheets of material (like corrugated board or cardstock) are fed through.
Cut & Crease: In one pass, the press cuts the outline and can also add creases or perforations where folds or tear lines are needed.
Why Die Cutting Important in Packaging
Consistency: Every box or label comes out exactly the same size and shape, which is crucial for large orders.
Complex Shapes: Allows for intricate designs—handles, windows, custom silhouettes—that scissors or straight-line cutters can’t achieve.
Efficiency: High-speed, high-volume production saves time and cost compared to manual cutting.
Common Packaging Uses
Folding cartons and mailer boxes
Custom inserts or trays
Branded cutouts (e.g., logo-shaped windows on retail packaging)
In short: Die cutting is the technique that turns flat sheets of material into the precise, professional of custom product packaging shapes you see on store shelves every day.
