What Does Kiss Cut Mean?
Kiss Cut refers to a cutting technique where multiple layers are stacked together then cut, with each layer’s cut path inset from the layer below it.
This technique is commonly used in two different fields: Tackle Twill for apparel, and Stickers.
- Tackle Twill is typically Kiss Cut on a flat-bed cutter. After laying the first sheet of twill down, that bottom layer is cut. Then the next layer of twill (PST or Pressure Sensitive Twill with a sticky backing) is applied on top, and that layer is cut. This can be done multiple times, although the average Kiss Cut Tackle Twill design only has 2-3 layers.
- Stickers also use the Kiss Cut technique, but the process is a little different. Since sticker material already comes with two layers (the sticker vinyl on top of the paper backing), there is no stacking of layers required. Just the two cut paths, the Kiss Cut path which only cuts the top vinyl layer, and the Die Cut path which cuts through both layers.
What Are The Benefits Of Kiss Cut?
Benefits of Kiss Cut Tackle Twill
The benefit of Kiss Cut Twill is achieving a multi-color or multi-layer look, without having to manually place each piece or layer by hand. This saves you valuable time and labor. Also, with only one placement stitch needed, you save time by not stopping and starting your embroidery machine. Another benefit of Kiss Cut is having your twill pieces pre-spaced and positioned exactly how they are in your design program.
This picture shows an example of a 4 color Kiss Cut Twill design. Normally each color would be a separate layer, requiring a placement stitch and someone to put in place each layer by hand. With Kiss Cut, the Twill comes off the cutter as one piece with all the colors in place, ready to stitch/embroider.
Benefits of Kiss Cut Stickers
The benefit of Kiss Cut Stickers is how easy they are to peel compared to Die Cut stickers.
Die Cut Stickers are cut so the vinyl and paper backing are have the same edge (see example below). This can sometimes make peeling more difficult.
Kiss Cut Stickers leave a box or frame around the sticker (see example below) making them easier to peel. That’s why Wellington House calls them ‘Easy Peel Stickers’.
Want more information about Kiss Cuts? Ask our team about how Wellington House can produce Kiss Cuts for you, or supply you with the equipment to do-it-yourself.
