What the heck is a layered die cut and how is it setup?

Die cutting refers to the art of cutting custom or pre-defined shapes out of card or flyer paper. Multi-layer die cutting replicates this process using another card to give the print design more depth and dimension.

To set up each layer of a multi-layered die cut, you have to create a die cut mask PDF file. Use only industry-standard programs such as Adobe InDesign and Illustrator to create a vector-based art. Here’s how you can create a mask file:

Step 1: Start making your design on a solid white background. Our print-ready templates can help you get started.

Step 2: Make a duplicate of your design. Go to File, and Save your project as Filename_DieCutting_Mask.pdf.

Step 3: Remove all the design elements you don’t wish to die cut.

Step 4: All the remaining elements should be in a solid black color. Set the CYMK value to: C:0% M:0% Y:0% K:100%. Be very thorough when you’re doing this step. Don’t move the design elements around.

Step 5: Delete the template layer on both of the files, and hit save.