Die-Cutting Adds Interesting Shapes and Contours to Decals Decals are a great way to place an eye-catching logo, slogan, image, or promotional message on products, containers, printed materials, and many other surfaces. Unlike a standard label or sticker, a decal is often custom printed with bright colors to help it stand out and get noticed. Many decals also include a glossy finish that adds extra vibrancy. Beyond color and shine, another way to make a decal stand out is through its shape.
Decals can be made into unique outlines using a process called die-cutting. This process uses a thin, sharp blade that has been formed into a specific pattern. Much like a cookie cutter, the die cuts the decal into the desired shape. Common die shapes for decals include simple forms like circles, ovals, starbursts, and rounded squares or rectangles. Custom dies can create almost any shape you can imagine, such as a guitar, a bicycle, a company symbol, or another unique design. In some cases, the die cuts all the way through both the decal and the backer sheet to create individual decals.
More often, the die cuts only the outline of the decal and leaves the backer sheet intact. This is called kiss-cutting, and it allows one or more decals to stay on a backer sheet or roll.
Laser Cut Decals: The Short-Run Alternative
While die-cutting is often the most cost-effective choice for medium to long runs of custom-shaped decals, laser cutting is a smart option for smaller runs. Laser cutting can create nearly any shape that die-cutting can, but it does not require a physical die. That makes it a more affordable choice for short runs of custom-shaped decals.
As the name suggests, laser cutting uses a high-powered laser beam to trace the outline of the decal. This process is highly accurate and can produce very detailed shapes. Laser-cut decals are better for individual labels than decals that are kiss-cut on a backer sheet. The quality of a laser-cut decal is the same as a die-cut decal, but laser-cut decals are not as well suited for automated application. They are best applied by hand. Whether you need a short-run, medium-run, or long-run of custom printed decals, contact Formax Printing to discuss your project.
We can produce high-quality decals in nearly any shape or color you need. We look forward to helping with your next decal project.
Take care! Rick
