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Patch cut lines explained

Why the cut line matters and how to get it right every time.

What a cut line is

The cut line is the vector path your cutter or laser follows around the patch. It is separate from the printed or engraved artwork.

Shapes vs. die-cut

A shape gives you a clean rectangle, circle, or rounded patch. A die-cut contour follows the outline of your artwork for a custom silhouette.

Cut margin

The margin is the breathing room between your art and the cut. Tighter margins look modern; looser margins are more forgiving to cut.

Keeping print and cut in register

Because the cut line is exported as a real vector at the same size as the print, the two layers line up — no manual tracing.

More guides:How to design a hat patchPatch materials guideWhat is a gang sheet?

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