Get to Know Die Cutting: Everything Explained

Die cutting might just be one of print’s best-kept secrets! Whether you’re a designer or a business owner, this technique is the key to creating unique, eye-catching printed materials that truly stand out. Imagine handing over a Business Card shaped like your logo or a Wedding Place Card styled like a lemon. It’s a little detail that makes a big difference. 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about die cutting, from what it is, to where it’s used, and even a few creative ideas to inspire your next project. 

Wedding Place Cards

What is Die Cutting? 

At its core, die cutting is the process of using a specialised machine and a premade “die” (a thin, shaped piece of metal) to cut paper, cardboard and sometimes even other materials into custom shapes. Think of it like a cookie cutter, but instead of dough, you’re cutting through printed materials. The process allows for intricate or unique designs that wouldn’t be possible with standard printing and cutting methods, ensuring your print projects leave a lasting impression. 

From logos and lettering to intricate patterns, die cutting opens up a world of creative possibilities that help brands and individuals alike make their materials memorable. 

Where is Die Cutting Used? 

Die cutting is a versatile technique that adds something special to all kinds of print projects. Here are a few great examples where it truly stands out:

• Marketing Materials: Make a lasting impression with Business Cards, Postcards, Flyers or Brochures that stand out in a crowded market. 
• Wedding Stationery: From Wedding Invitations to Place Cards, die cut shapes bring a unique and memorable touch to your special day. 
• Packaging: Whether it’s custom Mailer Boxes, Product Labels, or Pin Backing Cards, die cutting lets you create perfectly shaped designs that look great and fit just right. 
• Greeting Cards: Add a personal, tactile element to Christmas or other celebration cards with unique die cut designs. 

If it’s printed, chances are die cutting can take it to the next level, helping your project truly catch everyone’s eye!

How Are Prints Die Cut? 

The process of die cutting may sound complex, but with the right tools and expertise, it’s quite straightforward:

1. Design: The process starts with creating a custom design for your project. This design determines the shape and look of your final product.
2. Create the Die: A special die is custom-made to match your design. This die, usually made of metal, mimics the outline of your desired shape.
3. Cutting Process: Using a die-cutting machine, the custom die is pressed onto the material (like paper or cardboard), cutting it precisely into the intended shape.
4. Finishing Touches: Once the material is cut, it’s polished for smooth edges and any other customisation (like embossing or foil stamping) is added. 

Now that the technical bit is out of the way, let’s talk about how you can flex your creative muscles with die cutting! 

Readily Available Die Cut Shapes

We’re excited to bring you a range of die cut shapes that can add a distinctive touch to your Wedding Print or Business Stationery. Here’s a quick guide to the options: 

• Arch: Choose from upper arch, lower arch, or double arch for a fresh, modern twist on Business Cards or add a rounded touch to many other prints. 
• Pebble: Perfect for Wedding Print, like Acrylic Signs or Menus, this soft, organic shape is a favourite for creating an elegant, natural feel. 
• Circle: A timeless choice, ideal for clean, balanced designs. It’s a fresh take for items like Wedding RSVP Cards. 
• Wavy: This playful design adds a dynamic edge to everything from creative direct mail Postcards to Swing Tags or think bigger with Wedding Welcome Signs.
• Wavy Circle: A fun twist on the classic circle, this shape is becoming a favourite for paper Wedding Coasters. 

Each of these shapes is designed to help your print stand out while keeping things effortlessly stylish. Let’s make your designs unforgettable!

Image Credit – Rachael Caitlin Design

Inspiring Die Cutting Ideas 

These are just a few ways to get creative with die cutting and bring your ideas to life:

1. Die Cut Business Cards 

Your Business Cards are often the first impression you make, so why not ensure it’s truly unforgettable? A die cut card shaped like your product, logo, or even an icon that represents your industry can instantly grab attention and make your brand more memorable.

Whether it’s a sleek geometric design or a playful, creative shape, choosing die cut Business Cards can help you stand out in a sea of standard rectangles and leave a lasting impact. Make your business card a conversation starter and a reflection of your unique brand identity.

Image Credit – Elfen

2. Die Cut Greeting Cards 

Say goodbye to the usual rectangular cards and hello to designs that truly stand out! Die cut card printing brings a whole new level of creativity to your Greeting Cards range, whether it’s Christmas Cards shaped like a snowflake, Birthday Cards styled with playful cut-out numbers, or even Thank You Cards with intricate floral edges.

These unique designs not only catch the eye but also leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re selling these cards as part of your business or sending them to friends and family, the personal touch and creative flair always make them a winner. Plus, they show that extra bit of thought and care, making every occasion feel even more special.

Image Credit – Rumble Cards x Ashley Le Quere

3. Die Cut Wedding Print

Wedding Print is all about the details, and die cutting can add a touch of sophistication and creativity to every element, from Invitations to table décor. Imagine unique, eye-catching Place Cards or Wedding Menus shaped like tiny floral arrangements, elegant bows, or even intricate lace patterns.

These custom shapes add a layer of personality and charm that perfectly complements your wedding theme. Not only are they simple to incorporate into your overall décor, but they also leave a lasting impression on your guests, making your celebration feel even more thoughtful and unique. Each carefully crafted piece becomes a small keepsake, adding a sense of warmth and elegance to your special day.

Die cut Wedding Signs offer a unique way to break away from traditional designs. Consider circular Welcome Signs or elegant Acrylic Signs with an arched silhouette to add a stylish, modern touch to your wedding decor.

Wedding Place Cards

4. Die Cut Stickers 

Custom Shape Die Cut Stickers are expertly crafted to match the exact outline of your design, offering a sleek, professional finish. Supplied individually for convenient distribution, they’re perfect for promotional giveaways or resale.

Printed on durable white vinyl or eco-friendly materials, these stickers are designed to withstand wear and tear, ensuring your designs remain vibrant and intact over time. Whether you’re showcasing bold branding or intricate artwork, they deliver a striking and memorable impact.

Ideal for branding, marketing campaigns, or simply unleashing your creativity, die cut stickers blend eye-catching appeal with long-lasting durability.

Image Credit – Prints by Milly

5. Die Cut Promotional Prints

Unleash your creativity and make your messaging truly stand out with impactful details like eye-catching packaging inserts, Product Care Cards, or uniquely designed die cut Leaflets & Flyers for direct mail campaigns. These thoughtful touches not only capture attention but also leave a lasting impression, helping your brand forge meaningful connections with customers.

With Die Cutting, you can break away from the ordinary and explore endless possibilities for your next marketing campaign. Let your imagination take the lead and create something that truly resonates.

How to Set Up Artwork for Die Cutting 

Now that you’re ready to start your die cutting project, it’s important to set your artwork up correctly. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Create Three Files:

• Cut Element: This should be a vector stroke (not filled) showing exactly where the cut needs to occur.
• Print Layout: Show only the printed design, minus cut elements.
• Mockup: A combined version that shows both print and cut elements, so the final setup can be clearly visualised. 

2. File Format:

  Save all files as PDFs to ensure compatibility. 

3. Additional Resources:

Download our helpful guide for detailed instructions to make sure your design is 100% print-ready here. Correctly setting up your files ensures your designs come out exactly the way you envision them. 

Custom Die Cut Projects 

At Printed.com, we’re passionate about die cutting (seriously, we’re obsessed). Our customers love pushing the boundaries of creativity with their projects, and we’re here to help every step of the way. Here are just a few examples of customer favourites:

• Floral Shaped Wedding Menus: We love these beautifully designed menus in the shape of flowers, adding an elegant and unique touch to any wedding table setting. Printed on our Rives Shetland paper, perfect for couples looking to impress their guests with creative details. 

Image Credit – Samantha Collins Creative Studio

• Croissant-Shaped Promotional Print: These die-cut packaging inserts, created by Studio Boketto, are a delightful example of their talent for crafting joyful, paper-based designs. This creative touch is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Image Credit – Studio Boketto 

No matter what shape or idea you have in mind, we’re ready to help you turn your vision into a reality. 

Bring Your Designs to Life 

Die cutting is more than just a printing technique; it’s a creative superpower that brings your imagination to life. From Business Cards and event stationery to Postcards and Packaging, die cutting is the tool you need to leave a lasting impression. 

Ready to start your die cutting project? Download our helpful guide here to perfectly set up your designs, and place your order through our Bespoke Service page. Still have questions? Our Customer Service Team is here to support you every step of the way, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Start designing, and start shaping those unforgettable moments!