Methods of forming self-aligned cuts and structures formed with self-aligned cuts. A dielectric layer is formed on a metal hardmask layer, and a mandrel is formed on the dielectric layer. A cut is formed that extends through the dielectric layer to the metal hardmask layer. A section of a metal layer is formed on an area of the metal hardmask layer exposed by the cut in the dielectric layer. After the metal layer is formed, a spacer is formed on a vertical sidewall of the mandrel.