Cut Design is a fundamental approach in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional design disciplines that involves the strategic removal or separation of material to create form, pattern, or functionality. This sophisticated design methodology encompasses various techniques across multiple design fields, from graphic design's paper-cutting traditions to industrial design's material reduction processes. The practice traces its origins to ancient Chinese paper cutting art, which influenced design aesthetics globally through its emphasis on negative space and precise material manipulation. In contemporary design practice, cut design has evolved to incorporate advanced technologies like laser cutting, water jet cutting, and computer-numerical-control (CNC) machining, while maintaining connections to traditional craftsmanship. The technique's significance lies in its ability to transform flat surfaces into three-dimensional forms, create intricate patterns, and achieve functional objectives through material reduction. Cut design principles are particularly relevant in packaging design, where strategic cuts enable flat materials to fold into complex structures, and in architectural design, where cut elements can create compelling spatial experiences and lighting effects. The methodology has gained recognition in sustainable design practices, as it often minimizes material waste through efficient planning and can be evaluated in design competitions such as the A' Design Award, which features categories specifically addressing innovative cutting techniques and their applications. The discipline requires a thorough understanding of material properties, structural integrity, and the interplay between positive and negative space, making it an essential component of modern design education and professional practice.
Material reduction, Negative space, Pattern creation, Structural transformation
CITATION : "Daniel Johnson. 'Cut Design.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=462820 (Accessed on June 30, 2025)"
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