Die-cutting uses sharpened steel blades to cut paper into standard or custom shapes (e.g., circles, ovals, waves, etc.) after a piece has been printed and has been the tried and true method in the printing industry for nearly two centuries. However, as laser technology developed over the past 75-80 years and lasers became more powerful, it became possible to use a laser to cut not only paper but a wide variety of materials (e.g., wood, metal, stone) depending on the strength of the laser. Both die-cutting and laser-cutting are used today in the printing industry to create shapes in paper stock. Today we’ll discuss if there any differences or advantages to using die-cutting or laser cutting for your next project.
Does Die-Cutting Offer Any Advantages?
Because die-cutting has been around for such a long time, it’s a more widely available service. It’s ideal for large production runs for items like labels and decals. In some instances, die-cutting can be incorporated as an in-line process on the press although it is normally performed as a finishing process after a piece has been printed. Die-cut providers maintain and offer a wide variety of standard shapes in various sizes. Custom shapes can be created, but the cost is not insignificant.
Does Laser-Cutting Offer Any Advantages?
The primary advantage of a laser-cutting is it can cut any shape whether standard or custom without incurring any additional fees or costs because the laser is guided/controlled by computer. Hence, laser-cutting is less expensive overall than die-cutting. However, laser-cutting is not an ideal choice if long production runs are required as it is not as expedient die-cutting. Laser-cutting is great for short production runs utilizing custom shapes that would be cost prohibitive using die-cutting technology.
If you have any questions about Die-Cutting or Laser Cutting,give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
Photo by Tool., Inc
