Die-Cut File Preparation Service
Closed paths. Proper bleeds. Correct die lines. Files your print shop will accept on the first submission.
Starting at $25. Unlimited revisions. 24-hour delivery.
10+
Years Experience
3,000+
Happy Customers
24hr
Average Turnaround
100%
Acceptance Rate
Why Die-Cut Files Get Rejected
Print shops and cutting services reject files every day for the same preventable reasons. We fix all of them before your file leaves our hands.
Open Paths in Die Line
The die line has gaps or breaks. The machine stops mid-cut, leaving pieces attached. Every file we deliver has verified closed paths.
Missing or Wrong Bleed
Artwork stops at the die line instead of extending beyond it. Result: white edges on finished product. We set proper bleeds for every order.
Wrong Die Line Color/Weight
Die line is the wrong color or too thick. Print shop can't separate it from artwork. We use your shop's exact specifications.
Raster Images Instead of Vector
Logos and graphics are embedded as JPG/PNG instead of clean vectors. Cutting machines need paths, not pixels. We hand-trace everything.
Text Not Converted to Outlines
Live text relies on fonts the machine operator may not have. Missing fonts = missing text. We convert all text to vector outlines.
Self-Intersecting Paths
Die line crosses over itself, confusing the machine about what's inside vs outside the cut. We ensure clean, non-intersecting geometry.
What Makes Our Die-Cut Files Different
We don't just convert your image — we prepare production-ready files built for your specific cutting machine and material.
Guaranteed Closed Paths
Every die line is a verified closed path — no gaps, no breaks, no open endpoints. Your machine gets a complete contour from start to finish.
Minimal Anchor Points
Clean Bezier curves with only the essential nodes. Smooth cuts with no micro-stutter, no blade tearing, and no rough edges on finished products.
Correct Bleeds & Margins
Artwork extended properly beyond the die line. Safety margins set correctly so important content is never at risk of being cut off.
Organized, Labeled Layers
Die line, artwork, bleed, and fold lines on separate, clearly labeled layers. Your print shop can work with the file immediately — no cleanup needed.
Our Die-Cut File Preparation Process
From your raw artwork to a machine-ready file in 5 steps. Every file goes through rigorous verification before delivery.
Upload Your Design
Send us your artwork in any format — JPG, PNG, PDF, AI, or even a sketch. Tell us what you're cutting (stickers, packaging, signage) and which machine or print shop you're using.
- Any file format accepted
- Specify material and machine type
- Share print shop requirements if available
- Include dimensions and quantity
Assessment & Die Line Planning
We analyze your design and plan the die line path. We account for material type, bleed requirements, safety margins, and minimum feature sizes for your specific cutting method.
- Evaluate design for cut feasibility
- Plan die line path and corner radius
- Determine bleed and safety margins
- Check minimum detail sizes for material
Die Line Construction
We build the die line as a clean, closed vector path with minimal nodes for smooth cuts. Every corner, curve, and intersection is optimized for the cutting machine.
- Closed paths — guaranteed, no gaps
- Minimal anchor points for smooth cuts
- Proper corner radius for machine capability
- Correct die line color and weight
Layer Organization & Bleed Setup
Artwork and die line are separated onto clearly labeled layers. Bleeds are extended, safety margins verified, and all text is converted to outlines.
- Die line on dedicated labeled layer
- Artwork layers organized and named
- Bleed extended beyond die line
- Text converted to outlines
Quality Check & Delivery
We verify every path is closed, inspect for overlaps or self-intersections, and test the file against your machine's requirements. You receive a preview for approval before final delivery.
- Path closure verification
- Overlap and intersection check
- Preview sent for your approval
- Delivered in AI, EPS, SVG, DXF, PDF
What We Prepare Die-Cut Files For
From stickers to CNC parts — we prepare files for every type of cutting application.
Custom Stickers & Labels
Die-cut stickers, product labels, and promotional decals. We prepare files with kiss-cut or through-cut die lines, proper bleed, and laminate layer specifications.
Product Packaging
Box templates, cartons, sleeves, and display packaging. Includes fold lines, cut lines, and glue tab specifications — ready for production.
Vinyl Decals & Signage
Vehicle wraps, window graphics, wall decals, and outdoor signage. Optimized for vinyl plotters with minimal nodes for clean blade cuts.
Business Cards & Print
Custom-shaped business cards, postcards, hang tags, and promotional materials. Files prepared with correct bleeds and print shop specifications.
CNC & Laser Cut Projects
Wood signs, metal parts, acrylic displays, and custom fabrication. DXF files with proper kerf compensation and toolpath-ready geometry.
Patches & Appliqués
Embroidered patches, iron-on appliqués, and fabric cut shapes. Die lines optimized for fabric cutting machines with seam allowances.
What You Receive
Every order includes everything you need to get your design cut on the first try.
All File Formats
AI, EPS, SVG, DXF, and PDF — every format your machine or print shop could need, included at no extra charge.
Organized Layers
Die line, artwork, bleed, and fold lines on separate, clearly labeled layers. Ready for immediate production use.
Unlimited Revisions
Need changes? We revise until it's perfect. No limits, no extra fees, no questions asked.
24-Hour Delivery
Most die-cut files delivered within 24 hours. Rush options available for tight production deadlines.
Satisfaction Guarantee
If your file gets rejected by your print shop, we fix it immediately at no charge. Your success is our priority.
Direct Communication
Work directly with the designer preparing your file. No middlemen, no miscommunication.
Die-Cut Specs Quick Reference
Standard specifications we follow for die-cut file preparation. Custom specs from your print shop? Just share them — we'll match exactly.
Bleed
1/8" (3mm) standard. Extended to 1/4" for packaging or when specified by your print shop.
Safety Margin
1/16" to 1/8" inside the die line. All important text and graphics kept within this safe area.
Die Line Color
Set to your print shop's preferred color (typically cyan, magenta, or a spot color). We match their exact specification.
Die Line Weight
0.5pt to 1pt stroke. Hairline for laser/vinyl cutting. We set the correct weight for your cutting method.
Minimum Corner Radius
1mm for vinyl, 2mm for paper/cardboard, 3mm+ for CNC. Sharp inside corners get dogbone fillets for CNC compatibility.
Simple, Transparent Pricing
No subscriptions. No hidden fees. Pay per project with all formats and unlimited revisions included.
Simple Shape
$25
Basic die-cut sticker or label
Logo Die-Cut
$45
Custom shape around logo artwork
Complex Die-Cut
$65
Detailed artwork, multiple cuts
Packaging Template
$100
Box, carton, or multi-piece die
Not sure which tier? Send us your design and get an instant quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a die-cut vector file?
A die-cut vector file contains your artwork plus a precise cutting path (die line) that tells machines exactly where to cut. The die line must be a closed vector path on its own layer, with proper bleeds and safety margins for accurate cutting.
Why do my die-cut files keep getting rejected?
The most common reasons are: open paths in the die line, missing or insufficient bleed, wrong die line color, raster images instead of vectors, text not converted to outlines, and self-intersecting paths. Our preparation service eliminates all of these issues.
What file formats do die-cut machines need?
Most print shops prefer Adobe Illustrator (AI) files with layers intact. EPS and vector PDF are also accepted. For CNC and laser cutting, DXF is the standard. We deliver all formats with every order so your file works with any machine.
How much bleed do I need for die-cutting?
The industry standard is 1/8 inch (3mm) of bleed beyond the die line. Some shops require more for certain materials. We set up proper bleeds based on your print shop's requirements and the material being cut.
Can you prepare files for vinyl cutting and CNC?
Yes. We prepare files for all types of cutting: vinyl plotters (Silhouette, Cricut, Roland), CNC routers, laser cutters, flatbed die cutters, and rotary die-cutting machines. Each machine type has specific requirements that we account for.
How long does die-cut file preparation take?
Most die-cut file preparation is completed within 24 hours. Complex packaging templates or multi-piece die setups may take up to 48 hours. Rush delivery is available for urgent projects.
Stop Getting Files Rejected
Send us your design and we'll prepare a machine-ready die-cut file with closed paths, proper bleeds, and organized layers — guaranteed to be accepted.
Related Resources
Die-Cut Vector File Guide
Everything you need to know about preparing vector files for die-cutting machines.
Professional Vector Tracing
Need your artwork converted to vector first? Our designers hand-trace any image.
Vector Formats for Printing
SVG vs AI vs EPS — which vector format works best for your production method.