Kiss (Cut) Me, Quick

img class=”size-full wp-image-3431 alignright” title=”margie_heart” src=”http://printbuyersinternational.com/files/2012/02/margie_heart.jpg” alt=”” width=”200″ height=”200″ />

Sometimes the language of the graphic arts is exquisite. So it is with a particular type of die cutting called the kiss cut. And since Valentine’s Day is upon us, what better to write about?

Kiss cutting is done by finishers. According to Jay Smith of Superior Packaging and Finishing, just about every finisher offers it. Superior’s located in Braintree, MA.

Here are two examples where kiss cutting is commonly used: for sheets of
labels or for static-cling vinyl decals (which are used in retail stores for
window displays or floor graphics). Roll labels are printed and kiss cut all
in line. A different type of die called a rotary die is used.

Kiss cutting is always done with 2-ply stock. The first sheet adheres to a
second, backing sheet. The backing sheet should be heavier than the top sheet;
otherwise the die might cut right through both layers, defeating the purpose.

Where does the name come from? (Here comes that “AHA” moment.) The steel die
used in the process gently “kisses” the second ply of paper (or whatever the
substrate may be) without cutting all the way through it. Any shape can be die
cut.

Traditional steel rule dies can be used, noted Smith, but special kiss cutting
rules with a shorter bevel are also made.

I'm finished. For today, that is.

Jay Smith is a wealth of information when it comes to finishing, BTW. His email is and his number is .

© 2012 Margie Dana. All rights reserved. You’re free to forward this email. However, no part of this column may be reprinted without permission from the authors