Express Dies

A die for a press is a precision-machined tool mounted in a printing or converting press that cuts, embosses, or stamps foil onto sheet materials. Under controlled pressure, the die's raised or engraved surface shapes, scores, or decorates paperboard, chipboard, or plastic stock to produce packaging, labels, or promotional pieces.

Dies are used to cut, score, perforate, emboss, or foil stamp shapes and patterns into materials like paperboard, chipboard, corrugated, and plastic. They enable consistent, repeatable production of folding cartons, labels, presentation folders, and other packaging or promotional items requiring precise finishing.

Foil stamp dies typically ship in 2-3 days and standard single-level embossing dies in 3 days. Multi-level, sculptured, or combination brass dies require more complex construction and are quoted on a per-project basis depending on design intricacy and material requirements.

Copper is used for foil stamping dies and single-level embossing dies, offering fast construction and reliable performance. Brass is used for multi-level, sculptured, and combination dies that require greater detail and durability. Steel-rule dies are used for die-cutting, scoring, and perforation applications.

Dies are constructed using Adobe Illustrator EPS files processed through Cimek software. Common formats like PDF, JPEG, TIFF, and native AI files are not supported for direct die construction, so artwork must be converted to a compatible EPS file before production can begin.

Dies and die-cutting equipment can accommodate material thickness ranging from approximately .002" (2-point) up to .060"-.080" (60-80 point), covering everything from thin sticker stock to heavy chipboard, corrugated, and plastic composite materials used in packaging.