(Newswire.net — April 29, 2022) — Die-cutting brings many benefits but it can also bring a lot of confusion to people who aren’t too familiar with it. If you’re interested in die-cutting but not sure how it works or how to get started, keep reading for answers to six frequently asked die-cutting questions.
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What would I use die-cutting for?
Die-cutting allows you to create the same shape again and again without having to use any equipment other than a die-cutting machine. This saves you time and ensures that your shapes are consistent each and every time, something that’s difficult to replicate by hand. There are tons of things that die-cutting can be used for – stickers, gift tags, scrapbooks, cards, just to name a few.
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Is it worth buying a die-cutting machine?
Whether you’re crafting for personal pleasure or for commercial reasons, purchasing a die-cutting machine is always worthwhile. With so many types of machines available you’ll be sure to find one that’s fit your needs and will save you time and effort.
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What kind of machine should I get?
There is a wide range of brands available, and each machine differs just slightly from the other. Depending on the type of work you’ll be doing on your die cutting machine, a digital cutting table is one of the most popular options. For all-around work, digital cutting machines allow you to connect to your laptop or computer, print digital files, and connect via USB ports, giving you a wider variety of choices than manual cutting machines.
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Is die-cutting wasteful?
On an industrial scale, yes, die-cutting is wasteful, but not any more so than other textile processes. There are small tricks to ensure you’re not wasting masses of material, however. I’m sure you’ve heard plenty about the harmful effects of textile waste, and maybe that’s why you’re reading this article. Let us reassure you that die-cutting isn’t the same. The basic solution is to set up your designs and materials so that every possible inch of the material is used, instead of cutting out a design in the middle of the material and chucking the rest away.
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Which die should I buy?
With so many dies to choose from it’s no wonder you’re a little confused.
Steel-rule dies are sharp and are protected with foam usually for your safety. These are often more durable as they’re designed for cutting thicker materials.
You can purchase thinner metal dies if you’re looking for a smaller, more traditional outline, but these dies aren’t as sharp and can only be used for thinner materials.
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How does a die-cutting machine work?
The exact mechanics vary depending on the type of machine and the materials, but the process is actually pretty simple. A hydraulic press within the machine pushes the sharp blades (dies) into the material with the right amount of pressure to ensure that the material is cut but the sheet underneath isn’t.
So, if you were struggling to understand certain elements of die-cutting, hopefully, many of your burning questions have been answered in this simple guide.