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Introduction to Finishing: Trimming and Cutting

Introduction to Finishing Trimming and Cutting

Trimming and Cutting 101 – Episode Summary

In this episode of The Print University, Ryan McAbee and Pat McGrew cut straight to the heart of finishing with a comprehensive look at trimming and cutting in print production. From tabletop guillotine cutters to high-end laser and rotary motion systems, this session is essential for anyone developing bindery equipment training courses, printing industry training programs for new employees, or modernizing outsourced training for print production staff.

Cutting is part of the broader converting process—transforming printed sheets into finished deliverables. Ryan and Pat walk through key equipment types:

  • Guillotine cutters, with safety features and blade precision

  • Die cutters, used in packaging and high-efficiency business card production

  • Rotary cutters, favored in sign shops and small print franchises

  • Laser cutters, ideal for intricate, high-value designs in packaging and promotional print

They clarify the difference between cutting (rough sizing and substrate prep) and trimming (final shaping for bindery or delivery). Die-cutting requires custom metal dies and long-term planning for reuse and cataloging. Meanwhile, rotary and laser systems offer tool flexibility and programmable shapes—making them ideal for short runs, variable pieces, or complex contours.

Use cases span from brochures, business cards, and signage to folding cartons and pop-up greeting cards. Cutting isn’t just a utility—it’s a creative and technical decision that influences time, cost, and quality.

You Will Learn:

  • Cutting vs. trimming: when and why they differ

  • Types of cutting equipment: guillotine, die, rotary, and laser cutters

  • Safety considerations and use cases by print segment (commercial, signage, packaging)

  • When to invest in tool changes, automation, and software-driven cutters

  • How design and production planning impact finishing decisions and ROI

Who This Course Is For:

Finishing operators, bindery coordinators, prepress and design teams, production managers, and educators implementing bindery equipment training courses, printing technician certification online, or lean manufacturing training printing industry

Time to Watch:

Approx. 25 minutes