The Matrix of Labels

The matrix I am referring to with this title has nothing to do with a new Keanu Reeves movie, the matrix I am discussing here is part of the die cutting process. In a previous post I demonstrated how die cutting works, the diagram above gives you a different perspective on this process.

As you can see here a printed roll of labels begins as just a long uncut roll. As the labels pass under the die, the pressure from the sharp edges of the die cuts the label material and so the labels get their shape. To make the labels easy to apply the material that is between the labels is removed. This material is what is called the matrix. As you can see in the above diagram this matrix is removed and wound on a roller. So when you receive your labels they are easy to remove and apply.

This diagram is reproduced with the permission of Labels & Labeling magazine, and comes from their Label Encyclopedia, a valuable resource for anyone interested in the label industry.