Print-and-cut files for Roland VersaWorks The cut line is a spot color named CutContour.
Roland VersaWorks, the RIP for Roland print-and-cut machines, prints the artwork and cuts along any path stroked with a spot color named exactly CutContour (PerfCutContour for a perforated cut). Send a PDF, EPS or AI file with the cut path as a separate, closed vector shape, a little bleed on the printed artwork beyond the cut line, and text converted to outlines.
How VersaWorks finds the cut line
VersaWorks looks for a spot color with a specific name. A path stroked with a spot swatch called CutContour is cut, not printed. The name has to match exactly, including capital letters. A swatch called PerfCutContour gives a perforated cut instead.
File checklist
- The cut line as a closed vector path, stroked with the CutContour spot color and no fill.
- The cut path on its own layer, above the artwork.
- Bleed: the printed artwork extends a little beyond the cut line, so a slight shift doesn't leave a white edge.
- Text converted to outlines.
- PDF, EPS or AI, with the spot color kept as a spot color, not converted to CMYK.
Common problems
| Problem | What happens | Fix in the file |
|---|---|---|
| Swatch misnamed or converted to CMYK | The cut line prints as a colored line and nothing is cut | Use a spot swatch named exactly CutContour |
| No bleed | A thin white edge shows after cutting | Extend the artwork past the cut line |
| Cut path traced from a raster | Jagged, slow cuts around the design | Draw the contour as a smooth closed path |
Stickers and labels
Most die-cut stickers are print-and-cut jobs: printed artwork, bleed, and a contour around the shape.
See vector files for stickers and labels.
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Frequently asked questions
What is CutContour?
A spot color name that Roland VersaWorks reads as a cut line. Any path stroked with it is cut instead of printed.
Why is VersaWorks printing my cut line?
The swatch name doesn't match exactly, or the spot color was converted to CMYK. Rename it CutContour and keep it a spot color.
Which file format should I send for print and cut?
A PDF, EPS or AI file with the artwork, bleed and a CutContour path is the usual handoff.
Imran Hossain
Owns the tooling and automation behind our workflow. Keeps file output precise and consistent.
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