NOTE CARD DIE CUTTING
We began exploring die cutting A-2 and A-6 fold over note cards with the score in place and cut around all 4 sides. We run all jobs to guides and the placement is very exacting. The completed cards are very exact and fold very true compared to printing first, cutting and then scoring. But I have a question about the channel matrix. I have always done scoring alone using channel matrix but when the score is combined with the cutting rule do you still use channel matrix. The score rule height was changed to accommodate the stock thickness. The first test worked well and I shaved some of matrix away near the cut rule and it worked well. I am just wondering if I am making this harder than need be. I am afraid a score with no matrix will be more like a cut and less like score. Are we thinking about this in the correct way or am I just bat sh-t crazy heading down the nut case wrong path again.
Hello. First off, Someone here will prob give you “The Bizz” on this, so i might as well be first. You are “Creasing”. Scoring is using a partial depth “CUT” in the sheet to control a fold.
Now, onto your issue. There are two main types of Matris being used today. the older of the two is a metal based matrix. For this, i would order my dies @ .918” cut, with .890- .900” crease.
The newer is a mylar based crease matrix. This i find more desireable as I then order my dies @ .918” cut and .905” crease.
You can see that, with the metal based, there is.028”- .018” difference which can be considered as a small “cliff” or “curb” that the cut rule must pass by in order to bottom out and complete the cut.
with the mylar based, there is .013” diffenrence. this may seem a small amount, it often makes a HUGE difference.
The depth and width of your creasing matrix, is according to your stock. Grain direction can make a difference also.
Call your supplier. They often have small sample packs to send out, once you discuss your common needs.
I will often use a 320 grit wet/dry sand paper to taper the matrix down clost the ends so that, the “Cliff” isn’t so abrupt. you may have sand down the lower end so the cut doesn’t catch on the end of the matrix during delivery.Your crease rule is likely at 90 Deg to perimeter cut. Be sure to cut the ends of you matrix at 45 deg on each side of the matrix channel. you may also find small “Dents” in your stock near the “Crease-cut Intersect” removing the rubber from the die in this area should get rid of those. Good luck and feel free to reach with issues!
Thanks for the feedback. Our Matrix is metal based so I will try some of the mylar style. The dents at the intersection was what we played with. We felt we were on the right path but wanted to be sure we were not way off base.
if you want to try the mylar, i would get another rule from die maker for your crease. prob .905 to start. you will like it better than metal.