How to make a cutline in Adobe Illustrator for a Colex Sharpcut

For a Colex Sharpcut job, create a closed vector path in Illustrator, export it in a vector format that Colex Cut Center can import, then use Cut Center to map the path, read registration marks, compensate for print distortion, and operate the table.

Prepare the cutting geometry

Colex Cut Center supports common vector formats including AI, PDF, EPS, DXF, and PLT. The important Illustrator task is therefore producing a clean contour: one closed path, no duplicate lines, no accidental holes, and no dense trace noise that causes unnecessary blade motion.

For sticker or label work, decide whether the path represents a kiss cut or a through cut before mapping the processing method in Cut Center.

Manual Colex workflow

1. Create or place the print artwork in Illustrator.
2. Draw or derive one closed outside cut path.
3. Apply the required positive or negative offset.
4. Remove duplicate, hidden, and interior paths that are not operations.
5. Keep the contour on a clearly named layer.
6. Export AI, PDF, or EPS while preserving vector paths.
7. Import the job into Colex Cut Center.
8. Map the contour to the required tool and method, then run vision registration before cutting the print.

Create the path with CreateCutline

Select the artwork, open CreateCutline, choose the offset, and press Create Cutline. The plug-in adds one closed vector path to a top-level Cutline layer and leaves the artwork unchanged.

The path uses a CutContour spot-colour stroke for print-and-cut handoff. Colex Cut Center remains responsible for tool mapping, registration marks, vision compensation, material settings, and table output.

Check the Colex job

• Import only the contour intended for the selected operation.
• Confirm the file scale and units.
• Map kiss cut and through cut to the correct tools.
• Verify that vision marks are readable and outside the finished piece.
• Look for doubled paths before routing or through cutting.
• Use a material test to establish force, depth, and speed.

Colex cutline questions

Does the Sharpcut require CutContour specifically?

Colex can import vector files and map paths through Cut Center and connected RIP workflows. CutContour is useful handoff metadata, but the final Cut Center mapping controls the operation.

Does CreateCutline generate camera registration marks?

No. It creates the shape the tool follows. Registration and distortion compensation remain in the Colex workflow.

Can it create paths from raster artwork?

Yes. The artwork can be raster, while the output path remains vector for Cut Center import.

Generate the path before Cut Center

CreateCutline is a $20 one-time plug-in for Adobe Illustrator, with a seven-day free trial.

Download free trial

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Official Colex reference

• Colex Cut Center vision registration and supported import formats

CreateCutline is independent software and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Colex or Adobe.