What Are Custom Die Cut Window Boxes?
Custom die cut window boxes are tailor-made packaging solutions featuring precisely cut windows that showcase the product inside. The “die-cutting” process involves using a specialized machine to cut, score, and shape the packaging material (typically cardboard, corrugated board, or rigid paperboard) into unique designs.
Key Features:
- Custom Shapes & Sizes – Designed to fit specific product dimensions.
- Transparent Windows – Made from PET plastic, acetate, or glassine paper for product visibility.
- High-Quality Printing – Supports CMYK, spot UV, embossing, foil stamping, and other finishes.
- Eco-Friendly Options – Available in recycled, biodegradable, or kraft materials.
Why Choose Custom Die Cut Window Boxes?
There could be various reasons for anyone to opt for Die-cut window boxes based on several factors. Some of them could be branding and product visibility focused, others might be for being able to differentiate from competitors. Let’s look at them.
Stronger Brand Identity
1. Custom printing enables logos, brand colors, and unique designs that stand out on shelves.
2. Reinforces brand recognition and perceived value.
Improved Unboxing Experience
1. Creates a premium feel, increasing customer satisfaction and social media sharing.
2. Used by brands like Apple, Glossier, and Lush to build loyalty.
Enhanced Product Visibility
1. Allows customers to see the product before purchasing, reducing hesitation.
2. Ideal for food, cosmetics, electronics, and luxury goods where visual appeal matters.
Versatility Across Industries
1. Food & Beverage – Bakery boxes, tea packaging, chocolate displays.
2. Cosmetics & Skincare – Perfume boxes, lipstick cases, skincare sets.
3. Retail & E-Commerce – Subscription boxes, electronics, apparel packaging.
Eco-Conscious Packaging Appeal
Brands can opt for FSC-certified paper, soy-based inks, and compostable films to attract sustainability-minded consumers.
Design Considerations for Die Cut Window Boxes
To be honest there can be a plethora of considerations for the die cut window boxes depending on the need of the product that is to be packaged.
A good place to start with this element is to see all the different types of possibilities that can be used to enhance the overall look and feel of the window boxes. Let us walk you through some major ones.
Window Shape & Placement
The shape and placement of the die-cut window on the box can be based on different factors. For instance, if there is some literature that goes inside the box, the die-cut could be placed on a side to just showcase the product. Another case could be to place the die-cut window right at the front of the box.
Die cut windows can be round, square, oval, or custom-shaped. For example, heart-shaped for Valentine’s Day, Candle-shaped for birthday products packaging, rectangle or square in shape for products that require more visibility and so on.
Strategic placement ensures the most attractive product view. This is specifically the case with some make-up products, perfumes, e-cigarettes, tincture bottles, deodorants and so forth.
Moreover, such placement can be strategized to make your packaging stand-out from your competitors.
Below are examples of boxes with die cut windows of different shapes.
Material Selection
The cardstock to be used for the manufacturing of custom die cut window boxes makes a huge difference. Both in terms of quality of the custom boxes and the cost. Below you will find a table that somewhat delineates the pros and cons for different paper stock types.
Material
Best For
Pros
Kraft Paper
Eco-friendly brands
Biodegradable, rustic look
Corrugated Cardboard
Shipping and durability
Shock-resistant and cost-effective
Rigid Paperboard
Luxury Packaging
Sleek and High-end finish
5 Popular Types and Styles of Die Cut Window Boxes
Because die cut window is an extremely popular technique for custom boxes, it is further diversified into various types of boxes to increase the offerings for various types of product packaging. Some products are more suited for cardstock boxes, and others might be suitable for rigid packaging. It is this factor which defines the use of die cut custom windows in various box styles an imperative to be considered. Let us now look at some popular box styles that use die cut windows.
Best for: Retail products, food items, small electronics
1. Classic fold-and-tuck closure for easy assembly.
2. Window cutouts on the front or top panel.
3. Ideal for candles, tea bags, cookies, and small gadgets.
A popular example of tuck boxes with window is for gourmet chocolate brands that use a tuck-end window box to showcase its pralines while keeping them secure.
Best for: Pastries, cupcakes, doughnuts, cakes
1. Clear PET film window to display freshness.
2. Sturdy corrugated or food-grade cardboard construction.
3. Can include handle cutouts for easy carrying.
One of our major clients, a high-end bakery, uses windowed cake boxes with gold foil stamping to highlight its artisanal desserts.
Best for: Jewelry, cosmetics, small luxury items
1. Sleek, curved design for a premium look.
2. Small window to showcase rings, lipsticks, or perfume samples.
3. Often used with metallic finishes or soft-touch lamination.
A client of ours, a beauty brand. includes a windowed pillow box as part of its limited-edition lip gloss launch.
Best for: Luxury goods, tech accessories, high-end cosmetics
1. Built-in magnetic seal for a secure, upscale feel.
2. Full or partial window to display the product.
3. Often paired with debossing or spot UV for a premium effect.
A client of ours, a beauty brand. includes a windowed pillow box as part of its limited-edition lip gloss launch.
Best for: High-end cosmetics, jewelry, collectibles
1. Slide-out tray for an interactive unboxing experience.
2. Window on the lid or front panel.
3. Often used with velvet lining or foam inserts.
One of our frequent buyer, a luxury skincare brand, packages its macrons in windowed drawer boxes for a premium feel.
Other than the above mentioned styles of die cut window boxes, there are some other ones that are not so frequently used. These would be two-piece boxes with windows, reverse end tuck boxes with windows, auto-lock tuck boxes with windows etc.
Conclusion
Custom die cut window boxes are not just packaging—they’re a marketing tool. Whether you choose tuck-end boxes for retail, pillow boxes for jewelry, or magnetic closure boxes for luxury items, the right design can boost sales, enhance brand perception, and improve customer experience.
By selecting the right style, material, and printing technique, businesses can create packaging that stands out on shelves and delights customers.
