What is die cutting?

Die cutting uses specialist machines to produce cut-out shapes. We can create the same shape repeatedly, creating crisp, professional and consistent results every time. 

At Peterkin we use different methods of die cutting depending on the shape, complexity and thickness of 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).

Depending on your shape and the card stock selected Peterkin will choose which method of die cutting is most suitable for your order.

Good to know

• Minimum order 50, any quantity below will automatically increase to 50 when added to your cart.
• We cannot Edge Foil any item that is die cut.
• Please allow one extra day for production time.
• If you're using a Peterkin Standard Shape - you must use our templates to position your design.
• If you're creating your own Custom Die Cut Shape - you must follow our guidelines to set up your design and die line correctly.

Peterkin Standard Shapes 

Peterkin has a large selection shapes to accompany your printing.

View the Printery Shapes Chart

Custom die cut shapes

You can also create your own custom shape by creating your own die line. 

How to set up artwork for my custom die cut shape

Die Cutting Methods

Traditional die cutting
Thin, razor sharp steel blades are formed into specific shapes. Ours are mounted into wood which is then carefully fixed into the chase of our press. Each sheet of paper or card is pressed between the die and the platen, punching the shape out with a crisp clean edge. They're similar in effect to cookie cutters.

What we use it for: Standard Shapes and any Custom Shapes with double-thick stock. Also for all letterpress, hot foil press or embossing orders. Traditional die cutting is also required for larger runs.

Digital die cutting 

Is performed by converting a vector (Illustrator) die line into a format our digital die cutting machine recognises. A laser-guided knife tool then cuts out the die cut shape.

What we use it for: Short runs, simple shapes, single thickness stocks and die cuts without scoring as the scoring is superior with a physical traditional die. It's a great way to test a custom die cut shape as well before committing to a more expensive traditional die.

Laser die cutting 

Uses precision lasers guided by computer software that can create more detailed and intricate custom shapes.

Laser Die Cutting is only available for single thickness stocks with digital printing. 

What we use it for: For complex custom shaped die lines, designs with interior cutouts, multiple paths and outer line shapes made from multiple points. The scores are a 'half cut' from the front of the design and cannot be 'bent back' rather than a more traditional score look and feel.

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

Related articles:

To find out how to add die cutting to your printing order, check out this article.

To find out how to order blank die cut shapes, click here.