Laser Die Cutting

Laser die cut shape showing intricate details and cut outs.

At Peterkin we use different methods of die cutting depending on the shape, complexity and thickness of the the stock to be die cut. Traditional die cutting (using physical wooden and metal dies on our Heidelberg Platens), Digital (by laser-guided knife) and Laser die cutting (precision laser cut). 

Find out more about die cutting with Peterkin - What is Die Cutting?

What is Laser Die Cutting?

Unlike traditional die cutting that uses a metal die to stamp out shapes, Laser Die Cutting uses precision lasers guided by computer software that can create more detailed and intricate shapes. It's fast, flexible and affordable!

We offer Laser Die Cutting as an option when you order single thickness card stocks with digital printing and Custom Die Cutting.

• Fast – no need to wait for a traditional die to be created. Perfect for samples and small runs.
• Cost-effective –  compared to traditional die cutting as no physical die has to be made.
• Variety – from simple outlines with cut outs and scores, to more intricate shapes.
• Fine details – achieve precise, delicate cuts unsuitable for traditional dies
• Creative combos – combine with Digital CMYK colour, white ink, gold or silver printing.

FAQs

What stocks are suitable?

Any of Peterkin’s paper and card stocks* can be laser cut but keep in mind that lighter-coloured papers may show subtle edge darkening due to the laser process. Peterkin may choose Laser Die Cut your order depending on the shape and card stock chosen.

*Excludes signage and Indie Handmade.

What's the minimum order?

You can order a single custom laser cut sample or a minimum of 50. Laser cutting is perfect for one-offs, samples and small runs.

What is the maximum size shape?

We can laser die cut up to A3 (297x420mm). One shape per die line ordered.

How detailed can my design be?

Laser cutting can achieve intricate patterns and cutouts that traditional die cutting cannot. However, try to minimise the number of ‘points’ in your die line. These can slow down the progress of the laser which can increase any edge discolouration if the laser's in one place for too long. Check your design and delete unnecessary points or try ‘Simplify’ (right click on path). 

For more information on Simple or Complex Shapes click here.

Can you score with Laser Die Cutting?

Yes! The score is a crisp 'half cut' and superior to scoring with a Digital Die Cutter. The scoring looks a little different to traditional style scoring.

How long does it take to receive my Laser Cut order?

For new Custom Die Cut shapes add two full business days, existing Custom Die Cut Shapes add one full business day to your order processing time. See Turnaround Times for more information. 

Does Laser Cutting affect the colour of the paper edges?

Laser Cutting works by precisely vaporising the paper along the cut lines, so you may notice subtle darkening along the edges, especially on lighter-coloured papers. 

This effect is not generally noticeable on a single piece but can be slightly visible when multiple cards are stacked.

How to set up your design

Supplying your design for Custom Laser Die Cutting is simple:

• NEW Custom Laser Die Cut Shapes: supply your artwork as a 3-page PDF 
  • Page 1: the die line on its own
  • Page 2: your design to be printed
  • Page 3: a mock up showing the dieline on the design
• EXISTING Custom Laser Die Cut shapes: just upload the design to be printed and a mock up.
• One shape per die line ordered.
• Your die line must be created as vector (not currently available with Canva). For full instructions on setting up your custom die line click here.

How to order Laser Die Cutting

First add your printing (steps 1-4) and then add Laser Custom Die Cutting.

Step 1. From The Printery tab choose your printing by size.

Step 2. Choose the type of DIGITAL printing (CMYK colour, White ink, Gold or Silver) and if your design is single or double sided.

Step 3. Select Standard Thickness Stock (Laser is not available with Double Thick Stocks).

Step 3. Choose the card type you'd like from the dropdown, complete the fields for quantity and upload your design.

Step 4. Add to cart.

Step 5. When the page refreshes, click DIE CUTTING.

Step 6. When the page refreshes again, choose LASER DIE CUTTING CUSTOM SHAPE.

Step 7. Complete remaining fields for quantity and if ordering this die shape for the first time, upload your die line and mock up.

Step 8. Add to cart.

Related Articles:

How to set up artwork for my Custom Die Cut Shape

What is Die Cutting?

Traditional or Digital Die Cutting. What's the Difference?