Fabric Die Cutting Services

At Colvin-Friedman, we have decades of experience when it comes to precise fabric die cutting needs. We serve the apparel, industrial, and automotive markets with a multi-step process that ensures all die designs produce the exact results that our customers need across a broad variety of fabrics. Get a quote today to learn how versatile, efficient, and customizable our work can be.

Die Cutting Applications

When it comes to fabric, there are very few limits on what can be cut, outside of certain protective materials like Kevlar™ and others specifically designed to resist abrasion. While we are generally able to cut any fabric type, here are some of the industries we work with periodically:

Industry	Applications
Apparel	Pattern pieces for garments, appliques, and patches
Automotive	Seat covers, upholstery, interior trim, filters, and gaskets
Home Furnishings	Furniture pieces, shaped cushions, decorative elements similar to apparel
Industrial	Protective gear and uniform piece cutting, filters, insulation materials with tight tolerances

Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488

The Colvin-Friedman Process

With 75 years of experience working with fabrics, we understand how crucial it is for supplier and customer to be on the same page. With variability in the types of dies required for thicker and stronger fabrics, as well as the differences in tensionability, making sure everyone is on the same page can make the difference between a successful project and one with major delays.

To keep things running smoothly, we’ve developed the Colvin-Friedman Process for die cutting to ensure that our customers receive the best quality in results and service. It works like this:

Initial Consultation	Design/Prototyping	Contract
We discuss project requirements, budget, lead time to assess what type of die cutting makes the most sense.	An expert die maker produces a prototype to suit the fabric and run size needs of the project.	Colvin-Friedman and you agree on terms for production amounts, quality control, and any shipping integration.
Pre-Production/Sample Run	Production/QC	Shipment and IMS Integration
Per contract, we are happy to provide any number of sample cut materials for your review to ensure maximum quality.	Colvin-Friedman stays in constant contact regarding production numbers and to discuss any unlikely issue.	Colvin-Friedman uses its extensive inventory management system experience to ensure components are integrated into your supply chain.

Common Fabrics and Die Cutting Considerations

Here's a table outlining some of the most common fabrics and the key considerations for die cutting each:

Fabric Type	Characteristics	Die Cutting Considerations
Cotton	Natural fiber, breathable, versatile	- Tends to fray, may require edge sealing - Responds well to sharp steel rule dies - Multiple layers can be cut simultaneously - May require frequent die sharpening due to fiber density
Polyester	Synthetic, durable, wrinkle-resistant	- Minimal fraying, clean cuts - Suitable for both steel rule and rotary dies - Can be cut with ultrasonic dies for sealed edges - Static electricity may be an issue, consider anti-static treatments
Cotton-Polyester Blend	Combines properties of both fibers	- Behavior depends on blend ratio - Generally easier to cut than 100% cotton - Less fraying than pure cotton - Suitable for various die types
Nylon	Strong, elastic, resistant to wear and tear	- Can be challenging due to its strength and elasticity - Sharp dies are crucial for clean cuts - May require cooling during high-speed cutting to prevent melting - Ultrasonic cutting can provide sealed edges
Silk	Delicate, smooth, natural fiber	- Requires very sharp dies to prevent snagging - Light pressure to avoid crushing or damaging fibers - Best suited for steel rule or laser cutting - May require backing material for stability during cutting
Spandex/Elastane	Highly elastic synthetic fiber	- Stretches during cutting, requiring adjusted patterns - Sharp dies are essential to prevent snagging - Often cut in combination with other fabrics - May require specialized handling to maintain shape

Material-Specific Factors to Consider for Fabric Die Cutting

When planning your fabric die cutting project, consider these material-specific factors:

• Fraying Tendency: Natural fibers like cotton are more prone to fraying, which may require additional finishing steps or specialized cutting techniques.
• Fabric Density: Denser fabrics may require more frequent die sharpening to maintain clean cuts.
• Elasticity: Stretchy fabrics like spandex may need pattern adjustments to account for stretch during cutting.
• Melting Point: Synthetic fabrics may be sensitive to heat generated during high-speed cutting, potentially requiring cooling measures.
• Stability: Delicate or slippery fabrics might need backing materials or special handling during the cutting process.
• Finishing Requirements: Some fabrics benefit from edge sealing techniques, such as ultrasonic cutting for synthetics.

At Colvin-Friedman, our experts are well-versed in handling a wide variety of fabrics. We'll work with you to determine the best die cutting approach for your specific material and project requirements.

Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488

Types of Dies for Fabric Cutting

Choosing the right die for your fabric cutting project is paramount in terms of optimizing cost and quality. At Colvin-Friedman, we offer several types of dies for fabric cutting:

• Steel Rule Dies: Ideal for cutting thicker fabrics and multiple layers. They offer a good balance of precision and cost-effectiveness for medium to large runs.
• Rotary Dies: Perfect for high-volume production of lighter fabrics. They provide fast, continuous cutting for roll-to-roll operations.
• Clicker Dies: Also known as "cookie cutter" dies, these are commonly used in the shoe and leather industry but are also effective for cutting various fabric types.

Characteristics	Steel Rule Dies	Rotary Dies	Clicker Dies
Best For	Thicker fabrics, multiple layers	High-volume, lightweight fabrics	Leather, thick fabrics
Production Speed	Medium	Very High	Medium
Precision	High	High	High
Complexity of Cuts	Simple to Complex	Simple to Moderate	Simple to Moderate
Typical Run Sizes	1,000 - 100,000+ pieces	100,000+ pieces	1,000 - 50,000 pieces
Setup Time	Short to Medium	Long	Short
Material Waste	Low to Medium	Low	Low to Medium
Edge Finishing	Clean Cut	Clean Cut	Clean Cut

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is fabric die cutting?

The precision of fabric die cutting is unmatched due to the use of custom dies designed specifically for the fabric type and the complexity of the required cut.

What types of fabric can you cut?

We can cut virtually any fabric, including delicate materials like silk and robust materials like nylon. Special considerations may be needed for some high-stretch or high-strength fabrics.

Can you produce prototypes?

Yes, we provide prototyping services to ensure that your final product meets your design specifications before full-scale production begins.

Do you offer integration with my supply chain?

Yes, we have extensive experience working with various inventory management systems to ensure seamless integration with your existing supply chain.

Contact Us for More Information

If you require more information about fabric die cutting or would like to inquire about our project capabilities, please call our vice president, Josh Rodman via the number below, or click the button and receive a free project quote.

Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488