Crafting with Precision, All About Dies
Dies are metal templates used to cut shapes, stamped images, sentiments, and intricate designs out of paper, cardstock, felt, and other materials. They're a must-have for card makers, scrapbookers, and mixed media artists who want to add precise, professional-looking elements to their projects. One of the best features of dies is that they can be used over and over again, making them a long-lasting investment in your creative toolbox.
Types of Dies
Dies are generally classified as either thin metal dies or steel rule dies. If you’ve ever been in an elementary school classroom, you might remember the thick dies and large machines used to cut out bulletin board letters and shapes—those are steel rule dies. They’re ideal for cutting through thicker materials and multiple layers of paper at once.
Thin metal dies, in contrast, are made from slim sheets of metal and are the most commonly used type in modern crafting. They’re also the only kind designed by Hero Arts. One of their biggest advantages—besides versatility—is that they’re compact and easy to store, making them perfect for crafters with limited space. They also come at a lower price point compared to steel rule dies, making them more accessible for beginners and great for building a large, diverse collection.
Thin metal dies often coordinate with stamp sets, allowing you to quickly and precisely cut out stamped images. You’ll also find infinity dies, which are sets of basic shapes in graduated sizes—ideal for layering, matting, or finding just the right shape. Popular nesting shapes include circles, squares, diamonds, tags, and a variety of labels. These dies are a staple for everything from handmade cards and scrapbook pages to school and home decor projects.
(Pro tip: Pre-cut frequently used shapes like circles or tags and keep a stash on hand—you’ll save time and always have the perfect piece ready to go.)
To use dies, you'll need a manual or electronic die cutting machine. These machines apply pressure to press the die into the material, cutting out the design cleanly and accurately.
Hero Arts Die Categories
These die cateogires all consist of thin metal dies.
Stand Alone - Stand Alone dies that cut designs independent of a stamp set. These dies are not made to cut out stamped images—instead, they cut shapes, sentiments, or designs on their own. Stand-alone dies can be further divided into the following categories: Infinity, Coverplate and Looking Glass.
Infinity - Infinity dies offer nesting shapes in multiple sizes for maximum versatility. Ideal for layering, framing, and creating shaped cards or windows, these dies are a staple for any paper crafter. With classic shapes like circles, rectangles, and more, Infinity Dies deliver clean, consistent cuts every time.
Coverplate - Cover Plate dies are large metal dies designed to cut intricate designs or patterns into standard A2 panels (4.25” x 5.5”). These dies are typically single-piece sets, though some may include additional stand-alone dies for added versatility. Cover Plate Dies are always designed to be used on their own, but a few have coordinating stamp sets or layering stencils available. While optional, these coordinating elements can greatly enhance the overall look and add more depth or detail to the finished design.
Looking Glass - Looking Glass dies are layering window die sets (typically 3 dies in a set) that create stunning layered 2” x 2” scenes with depth and dimension. Designed to work together in layers, these dies allow you to build beautiful, framed vignettes perfect for card fronts, shadow boxes, and more. Mix and match theses designs for endless creative possibilities.
Stamp & Cut - Stamp & Cut dies are specially designed dies that precisely cut out stamped images, perfectly coordinating with specific stamp sets. They eliminate the need to cut out stamped images by hand, ensuring a clean, professional finish every time.
Die Cutting Machines
Manual Die Cutting Machines
Manual machines, like the Spellbinders Platinum, Platinum Scout or Platinum 6, use a hand crank to roll your die-and-paper “sandwich” through the machine, applying pressure to cut the design. These machines are durable, portable, and versatile, handling a wide range of die sizes and materials with ease. They’re perfect for both beginners and experienced crafters.
Electronic Die Cutting Machines
Electronic die cutting machines automate the cutting process using a motor instead of a crank—a good option for those who do high-volume crafting or prefer a hands-free experience.
Cutting Plates & Platforms
Whether your die cutting machine is manual or automatic, it will include a range of plates and platforms essential for both cutting and embossing. Any combination of materials that passes through the machine is referred to as a “sandwich,” and assembling this stack correctly is crucial to avoid damaging your machine. Always consult your machine’s instruction manual for the proper sandwich configuration.
A typical die cutting sandwich includes a platform and two cutting plates, which act like the “bread” holding everything in place. The die and your chosen cutting material—usually cardstock—are layered between the two cutting plates, with the platform serving as the base at the bottom.
As you use the machine, the dies will leave impressions or marks on one of the cutting plates. To promote even wear and prolong their lifespan, make a habit of rotating and flipping your plates regularly—especially the one showing the most cut marks.
Over time, the your plates will begin to warp or even crack. Alternating between both sides can help extend its usability. Many users designate one plate as the “cutting plate” to keep the other cleaner, but keep in mind that cutting plates are consumable and will eventually need to be replaced. Depending on your projects, you may want to explore extended-length or 6x6 cutting plates or the Universal Plate System to better suit your crafting needs and get most out of your machine.
Additional Accessories and Tools
A variety of accessories help maximize your die cutting efficiency and ease of use:
Cutting Plates & Platforms - Essential for creating the pressure “sandwich” needed to cut materials with your machine. Spellbinders new Universal Plate System adds more compatibility for your Platinum machines. The new longer size allows versatility when die cutting and embossing. It will accommodate slimline dies and larger embossing folders. It will also work with most brands of thin metal dies, steel rule dies, 2D and 3D embossing folders by layering the plates accordingly.
Shims - Thin pieces of material, often metal, plastic or even paper, used to stabilize and provide extra pressure during die-cutting to improve the cutting performance of the die, especially helpful when cutting intricate or delicate dies.
Die Brush Tools - Like the Tool ’n One, these help release small pieces from detailed dies without tearing.
Low-Tack Tape - Use a washi tape or some other low tack tape like the Best Ever Craft Tape Ever to hold the dies in place over your chosen cutting cutting material.
Adhesives - Glue pens, tape runners, and adhesive sheets are great for attaching die-cut elements cleanly to your project.
Storage Solutions - Keep your dies organized and easy to find with magnetic sheets, folders, or storage pouches. Check out our wide variety of compact and easy to use storage options!
Troubleshooting Guide for Die Cutting
Issue - Shifting Dies
The die moves during cutting, causing misalignment with the stamped image or paper panel.
Try these solutions:
• Secure with Low-Tack Tape - Use washi tape or low-tack tape to hold the die firmly in place on the cardstock. After die-cutting, slowly peel off the tape to avoid tearing the paper.
TIP: If your tape tears the paper, reduce the stickiness by pressing the tape against your clothing first before applying it to the cardstock.
• Angle the Die - Large dies tend to shift more easily. To minimize this, tape the die securely and place it at an angle on your cutting plate—so that only one corner enters the machine first. This helps distribute the pressure more evenly and prevents shifting.
Issue - Incomplete Cuts
The die moves during cutting, causing misalignment with the stamped image or paper panel. Ensure your plates are not worn or warped. Worn plates can reduce the effectiveness of even pressure during cutting.
Try these solutions:
• Make Several Passes - Run the die-cutting sandwich through the machine multiple times—forward and backward—to increase the cutting pressure from different directions.
Rotate the Die - Turn the die about 45 degrees before cutting. This can change the pressure points and improve cutting effectiveness, especially for intricate designs.• Reposition the Die - Place the die closer to the edge of your cutting plates. Machines often apply more pressure at the edges than in the center.
Use a Shim - Add a shim (a thin extra layer, like a sheet of cardstock or a metal shim) to your cutting sandwich. This boosts the pressure and helps the die cut cleanly through the material.
Reposition the Die - Place the die closer to the edge of your cutting plates. Machines often apply more pressure at the edges than in the center.