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How to make a cutline in Adobe Illustrator for Zünd Cut Center

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For a Zünd workflow, create a closed vector contour in Illustrator and map it to the appropriate processing method, such as Kiss-cut or Thru-cut, before the job reaches Zünd Cut Center. CreateCutline generates the contour; Zünd software controls production metadata, tools, registration, and cutting.

How Zünd identifies operations

Zünd Design Center assigns processing methods through layers and spot colours. Its documented methods include Kiss-cut, Thru-cut, Score, Crease, Route, and others. Zünd Cut Center can also import common vector formats including PDF, AI, DXF, and EPS-style production files.

CreateCutline's Cutline layer and CutContour spot stroke provide a clean starting path. Map that path to the Zünd method used by the job rather than assuming the original layer name selects a tool automatically.

Manual Zünd path workflow

  1. Build a closed vector boundary around the finished piece.
  2. Apply the required offset and clean all overlaps.
  3. Remove any path that is not a real processing operation.
  4. Assign the path to the correct Zünd layer or spot colour.
  5. Add registration and production metadata with the Zünd workflow in use.
  6. Export the required PDF, AI, or ZCC production file.
  7. Confirm method mapping in Cut Editor or Zünd Cut Center.

Create the path with CreateCutline

Select the source artwork, choose the offset and smoothing, and press Create Cutline. CreateCutline builds one closed vector contour without moving or flattening the artwork.

Afterward, assign that contour to Kiss-cut, Thru-cut, or another Zünd method. CreateCutline does not generate ZCC metadata, choose material presets, or set the table's tools and depths.

Check the Zünd job

  • Verify that each contour has exactly one processing method.
  • Look for duplicate paths that would cut the same edge twice.
  • Confirm file scale and orientation after import.
  • Keep print graphics separate from processing layers.
  • Run camera registration and material setup in the Zünd workflow.
  • Review the Cut Editor preview before sending the job to the table.

Zünd cutline questions

Is CutContour the Zünd method name?

Not necessarily. It is the spot-colour convention CreateCutline produces. Assign or map the generated path to the Zünd processing method used by your workflow.

Does CreateCutline replace Zünd Design Center?

No. It creates an outside contour around artwork. Zünd software adds processing methods, packaging data, registration, and ZCC production information.

Can Zünd Cut Center import the path?

Zünd documents support for common vector formats including PDF and AI. Preserve the generated contour as vector data during export.

Create the contour before production mapping

CreateCutline costs $20 once and includes a seven-day free trial.

Download free trial

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Official Zünd references

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