The Vinyl Die Cut Machine Process: Understanding The Details

When you’re cutting vinyl, there’s a lot of potential for error. That’s why Conversion Technologies International recommends researching carefully ahead of time—and we have knowledge to share, especially if you’re in the market for a vinyl die cut machine. Let’s dive in!

What is the best machine for cutting vinyl?

We want to be clear about one thing first: There’s a big difference between cutting vinyl industrially and cutting vinyl at home. If you conduct basic research on vinyl cutting machines, you’ll run into a lot of references to home vinyl cutters. Individuals use these primarily for crafts, or in some cases, for very small artisanal businesses. But if you want to work on an industrial scale, you’ll look toward the vinyl die cut machine. Both fall under the “vinyl cutter” umbrella, but an industrial machine has far greater capabilities.

A die cutting machine utilizes a metal component called a “die”. The die has a sharp edge, which we use to cut specialized designs out of materials—like vinyl. While the process is relatively simple on its most basic level (you’re pressing the die against the material and cutting), it’s evolved over the years. Now, die cutting machines come in electronic and computerized forms, alongside the more traditional manual machines. This allows you to create more uniform shapes quickly and consistently, and on a greater volume than you would find with a small-scale vinyl cutter.

That being said—in some cases, those small vinyl cutter machines may execute more intricate designs than a vinyl die cut machine. But generally speaking, if you’re looking to produce a larger order without trial and error, a die cutting machine is what you want.

What is the difference between kiss cut and die cut vinyl?

The main rival to the vinyl die cut machine isn’t the home vinyl cutter—it’s the kiss cutting machine. We already broke down the basic die cutting process. We often compare die cutting and kiss cutting in terms of vinyl stickers and signage.

The hallmark of kiss cutting is that it cuts through that first layer rather than the backing. The backing typically comes in the form of a rectangle or a square, acting as a background for the sticker design. This makes kiss cut vinyl stickers and labels easier to peel without damage. This is a major concern when you’re looking for consistency and ease of application. The more intricate and delicate the design, the greater the potential for that design to tear. Kiss cut machines allow you greater flexibility in terms of design.

If you’re working with a simpler design, a vinyl die cut machine may work just as well. The die cutting process cuts through both layers at the same time. While this allows for a more precise cut, it also makes the peeling process more challenging. There’s a greater capacity for tearing more precise designs when they’re die cut. Due to the precision of the process, however, we may favor this process in specific circumstances. When you’re peeling and applying logos and product labels, you need as much precision as possible. In that case, choose vinyl die cutting. You’ll have to be careful when applying the sticker—but when properly applied, you’ll get the result you want.

Can a die cutting machine cut vinyl?

Well, yes—a die cutting machine can cut vinyl. You just need to make sure, as we covered above, that you’re working with the right kind of die cutting machine. Not all die cutting machines work with vinyl as well as others. Nonetheless, even a die cutting machine that does cut vinyl isn’t necessarily right for every vinyl project. You’ll have to evaluate your specific needs carefully before you settle on a vinyl die cut machine.

However, one of the benefits of working with a die cutting machine is that a die cutting machine works with other materials equally well, if not better. Many die cutting machines can cut through paper and cardstock, among other materials.

But what if you only need the machine for vinyl, specifically? What if you require a die cutting machine for specific projects, and don’t necessarily want to invest in a machine for the long term? Fortunately, you have options.

Can I outsource a vinyl die cut machine?

Some small business owners are understandably uncomfortable with the idea of outsourcing—at first. That’s because we often associate outsourcing with relinquishing control or diminishing quality. But that’s not always the case, and outsourcing is quite common in industrial manufacturing fields. The reality is that as you grow your business, outsourcing may be necessary. And when you work with the right partners, it can be quite an enjoyable experience.

For example, you could invest in your own vinyl cutter printer for a limited-time project. The alternative is outsourcing. When you work with an experienced company like CTI, you’re not only saving the money you would spend on a permanent machine. You’re also saving the money you would spend on hiring and training equipment operators. Plus, you’re skipping the trial and error that come with operating new systems. Check out this story about one of our roofing clients. They knew they wanted to develop new products, and CTI helped them do so without spending too much time in the experimental stage!

How do I learn more?

Ready to learn more about how outsourcing a vinyl die cut machine might work? Call CTI at 419-924-5566 or go here. There’s no need to wait!