A trimmer is used to precisely cut the excess material (such as paper, vinyl, fabric, or other substrates) from the edges of a printed sheet. Trimmers are commonly used for smaller-scale projects where accuracy and precision are important. They are often manually operated and require the user to guide the material along the cutting edge or guide rail. Trimmers are ideal for jobs that involve simple straight cuts and where a high level of accuracy is required, such as trimming photos, posters, and smaller signage.
A cutter, also known as a cutting plotter or vinyl cutter, is a more versatile and automated tool used for a wider range of cutting tasks in the wide format printing industry. Unlike a trimmer, a cutter is capable of cutting not only straight lines but also intricate shapes, text, and designs. Cutters use computer-controlled mechanisms to follow vector paths and create precise cuts. They are often used for producing decals, stickers, vehicle graphics, heat transfers, and more. Cutters are controlled through design software that generates the cutting paths, allowing for more complex and intricate designs to be created.
In summary, the main differences between trimmers and cutters in the wide format printing industry are:
Functionality: Trimmers are mainly used for straight cuts along the edges of printed materials, while cutters can handle more complex shapes and designs.
Automation: Cutters are usually computer-controlled and automated, following digital design files, while trimmers are often manually operated.
Precision: Both tools offer precision, but cutters are better suited for intricate and detailed cutting tasks due to their digital control and automation.
Application: Trimmers are commonly used for smaller projects like photos and posters, while cutters are used for a wider range of applications including decals, stickers, and vehicle graphics.
The choice between a trimmer and a cutter depends on the specific requirements of the project, the level of automation needed, and the complexity of the cuts.
