The Pros and Cons of Tinplate Steel Stainless Steel 3D Printed PLA and Copper Cookie Cutters
By Laura — honoring craftsmanship, materials, and the enduring art of cookie making.
Not all cookie cutters are created equal. While they may share the same purpose, the material behind each one tells its own story — of tradition, practicality, and the way we approach our craft. Whether you’re baking for business or simply for joy, understanding the nature of your cutters helps you choose wisely and care for them well.
Tinplate Steel — The Classic Workhorse
Pros:
Tinplate steel cutters have been a baker’s companion for generations. They’re sturdy, sharp-edged, and hold their shape beautifully, cutting through dough with a clean, decisive line. They often come in affordable sets, making them ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Cons:
Their one weakness is moisture. Tinplate will rust if not dried thoroughly, and should never be left to soak. Gentle washing and immediate drying keep them at their best — a small price to pay for such traditional reliability.
Stainless Steel — The Durable Modern Choice
Pros:
Stainless steel is prized for its strength and resistance to rust. These cutters endure years of use and washing without losing form or shine. They handle thick doughs, chilled butter, and even light fondant work with ease.
Cons:
They can sometimes have slightly thicker cutting edges, making very intricate designs a touch less crisp. They also lack the nostalgic look of old tin, but their dependability more than makes up for it.
3D Printed PLA — The Innovative Upstart
Pros:
PLA cookie cutters, created with 3D printing, have opened up a world of customization. You can craft nearly any design imaginable, from family initials to themed shapes for special occasions. They’re lightweight and safe for most doughs when printed with food-safe PLA.
Cons:
They’re best suited for soft doughs and gentle use. High heat and dishwashers can warp them, and their edges aren’t as sharp as metal. In short, they’re for creativity rather than heavy-duty cutting.
Copper — The Collector’s Treasure
Pros:
Copper cutters are the jewel of the collection — beautiful, timeless, and often handmade. Their warm gleam and weight give them a sense of permanence that speaks to the heart of tradition. With proper care, they can last for generations, becoming heirlooms in their own right.
Cons:
They’re expensive and require attention. Copper tarnishes over time, though many bakers cherish that patina as part of its charm. For everyday use, they may be more display than workhorse, but they represent craftsmanship at its finest.
Choosing What’s Right for You
There’s no single “best” cutter — only what suits your hands and your heart. The classic steel may remind you of your grandmother’s kitchen; stainless steel, of reliability; PLA, of modern invention; and copper, of artistry and legacy. Each has a place in the baker’s world, just as each has a place in time.
Because in the end, what matters most isn’t the cutter — it’s the care and joy you bring to what it creates.
