The die-cutting process is a popular manufacturing technique within the packaging industry. It involves the use of a die that is used to cut soft materials into a variety of packaging designs and shapes.
The ability to mass-produce custom packaging is where the real value of the die-cutting process lies. Die-cut packaging is easier, faster and more cost-effective to create custom packaging at a larger scale.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the die-cutting process and its role in custom packaging.
Understanding the Die Cutting Process
A cutting die is essentially a giant cookie cutter that is pressed into the material to form the desired shape of the packaging.
Die-cutting has come a long way from its origins in the shoemaking industry during the industrial revolution.
Initially designed to aid the mass production of packaging, die-cutting has developed into a versatile fabrication process.
Virtually any shape, design or pattern can be created using a cutting die.
Custom packaging is produced using custom steel dies and die-cutting machines.
This form of manufacturing allows for the mass production of packaging. But more importantly, die-cut packaging ensures precision accuracy.
How is a cutting die made?
Developments in technology and manufacturing techniques of cutting dies, ensure the most effective and accurate design of die-cut boxes. Typically, the packaging outline is generated by Computer-Aided Design (CAD).
This digitised drawing is transferred onto a piece of hardwood known as a die board.
The most sophisticated method for drawing designs onto die boards is by burning onto the wooden surface using state of the art laser cutters.
Read more: The Die Cutting Process in Packaging
