The new cutting technology, affordable for all.

Digital technology has transformed pretty much every aspect of the printing industry, but until very recently, die-cutting still relied on working methods rooted firmly in the dark ages. Costly, time consuming and prohibitive for anything other than the most expensive marketing budgets, die-cutting has long since been a ‘no go’ area for graphic designers and marketeers alike. But not any more!

’Digital cutting’ is a new process, created by a computer-programmed path that drives a precision cutting blade. This innovative process means there is no more need to create expensive metal dies.

Affordable for all

Ideal for short runs, digital cutting is opening up the possibilities of graphic design, print and packaging for smaller businesses. Gift boxes, stickers, shaped business cards, room service hangers, shelf wobblers, mailers and pretty much anything printed, cut, folded or taped is now more affordable than ever before!

Money Saving Tip: Ask your print supplier if they offer digital cutting. If they do, they should be able to offer you a much cheaper price for your bespoke cut items than traditional die-cutting.

Suitable for thicker materials

Digital cutting is also suitable for thicker materials such as foam board, cardboard and vinyl. This makes it ideal for large format items such as graphic installations and point-of-sale.

Quick turnaround

The digital cutting process is also very quick. How quick? Watch this video (link here) of some hanging boards being created on a flagship VeloBlade Volta machine.

Artwork Tip: You’ll need to draw a line on your artwork that shows the cutter path. Try to use a colour that’s not used anywhere else on the design, preferably a ‘spot’ colour. If you’re using professional software such as Adobe Illustrator, draw the path on a different layer. Alternatively, select the cutter path, go to the ‘attributes’ menu, then click on the tick box that says ‘overprint stroke’. This will ensure your cutter path doesn’t interfere with the rest of the design.

Now that specially shaped printed items are more affordable than ever, let your imagination run wild. What quirky cut-out designs will you come up with?