Abstract: A steel rule cutting die having a slotted die backing board fabricated from wood with a laser burned slot therein and a steel rule in the slot, the steel rule having integral projections on its opposite side faces for engaging the walls of the slot, thereby precluding lift out of the steel rule from the slot.

Abstract: A dual purpose rule guard for two-piece rotary cutting dies consists of a pair of confrontable allochiral guards. Each defines on its confronting surface a first portion thereof recessed inwardly therefrom and a second portion thereof projecting outwardly therefrom. The guards of the pair are interdigitable for assuming an interlocked position with respect to each other to insure the correct alignment of the cutting dies and of their rules. Additionally, each guard is so positioned relative to its cutting die that its second outwardly projecting portion projects outwardly of the confrontable edge or join line of the cutting die so that it functions as an overhang to keep the knife at the join line upwardly and away from any storage surface.