File Submission Specifications

How do I create a cut contour?

A comprehensive explanation of a cut contour: what is it and how do you create one? Any files that are not cut into a rectangle are cut along a contour. The cut contour specifies exactly where and how we will cut or mill your design.

When should I use a cut contour?

A cut contour is used when a design needs to be cut into a specific shape or when cutouts need to be included in the design. You, as the customer, place the cut contour or cutting line on the design so that we know exactly where the design needs to be cut. If you do not have the necessary knowledge or software to do this properly, we can provide the cut contour for you for a small additional fee.

Below are a few guidelines for creating a correct cut outline.

How to Create a Cut Contour in 3 Steps

1. Creating a cut contour

Draw the desired shape with the pen or use the standard shapes to place the cut outline. Make sure it is a closed line without a fill color, and assign it any color. In this example, we'll use a circle.

2. Create a new spot color

We want to assign a color to the cut contour, but of course, this color should not be printed. To do this, we use what are called spot colors. Select your line and click the menu in the upper-right corner of your Color window.If this window is not visible, open it by going to Window > Color. SelectCreate New Swatch.

3. Set the spot color

A pop-up window titled "New Swatch" will appearonthe screen. Name it "Cutcontour," and under "Type," select "Spot Color." Choose the color yourself (100% Magenta is usually used here). Then clickOK.

And there you have it—the cutcontour is done!

A few more important tips:

– Please submit one file per item: do not combine designs or include multiple (identical) designs in a single file.
For example: Let’s say you want 100 identical circles. In that case, please send us 1 file containing 1 circle (of which you’re ordering 100 copies), rather than 1 file containing 100 circles. An exception appliesto stickers on a sheet. If you have multiple outlines on a sheet, make sure the spacing between them is at least 2 mm.

– Do not place any cut contours outside the drawing area, even if multiple drawing areas were originally used. Remove the cut contour(s) from these areas.

– Always set the alignment of your cut contour to the center. If the alignment is set to the inside or outside, our system will display an error message regarding the cut contour.

– Be sure to leave a margin. Preferably 5 mm beyond the cut line.