Die Cutting/Vinyl Cutting Service
We have a small die cutter machine that is exceptionally useful for adding vinyl decals, such as logos, to props. It can also be used with heat transfer vinyl to add graphics to costumes or can be used for making one off stencils (helpful for curved objects).
We recommend SVG files for this process, though we can help you convert from JPEGs, PNGs or PDFs. If you need advice, just give us a call.
Pricing
We have a setup cost of £12 and then use a rate of £6/ft2 of material used.
Please give us plenty of notice of the material you would like to use, as it will often have to be ordered in. Aside from order times, the cutting process is very quick.
What materials can we use?
We can provide many materials for you but are happy to discuss something specific that you would like to source yourself.
- Matte Vinyl
- Gloss Vinyl
- Heat Transfer Vinyl
- Card
- Paper
- Some fabrics
Die Cutting Design Considerations
Designing a graphic purely for visuals is a little different to designing for machining (even though the software is usually the same!). This is because the graphics need to contain vectors to create tool paths. If you need help converting or arranging a graphic, we’re happy to help.
Material Size
We have a basic work area of 12″ x 12″ (304 x 304mm). However, rolls of vinyl can be used to achieve tooling of 12″ x 96″ (304 x 2440mm), which is ideal for small signs!
Vector Tracing
The die cutter follows vector paths (a common type of CAD, used in the likes of Adobe Illustrator). It is important when preparing a file for cutting that you avoid compound paths and keep your graphic as tidy as possible.
If you are working with JPEGs or other raster type files, we can help you convert them to workable vectors.
Are You Ready To Cut Your Design?
Pros and Cons of Die Cutting
Pros
- Very quick
- Cheap way to make signs for windows or smooth walls
- Vinyl decals are a simple way to attach logos to existing props
Cons
- Vinyl can be tricky to apply to surfaces
- Limited to colour palette of available stock
- Relatively small workpiece size
