An introduction to die cutting with Crafter's Companion.

Die cutting is a key technique in the world of papercraft. It’s a quick and simple way to cut out detailed and intricate shapes with perfect accuracy!

With a Gemini die cutting machine you can cut out designs with a level of delicacy that simply isn’t possible with scissors or a craft knife.

And the finished results can be used to decorate your handmade cards, scrapbook designs, home decor designs and more! New to die cutting? We’ve got everything you need to know…

What is a die cutting machine?

Die cutting machines use a combination of rollers and cutting plates to apply pressure to metal dies to cut shapes from paper, card and a range of other materials. The finished shape is called a die cut.

Available in manual and electronic versions and in a range of sizes, there’s a Gemini die cutting machine to suit every crafter. And every Gemini machine offers amazing power, performance and precision to cut crisp die cut designs in a flash!

What is a die?

A die is a metal shape with a sharp cutting edge. It’s designed to be used with a die cutting machine to cut out shapes with a precise, neat outline.

Dies are available in so many shapes and sizes. Words, numbers, sentiments, borders, adorable animals, beautiful flowers and so much more! Gemini from Crafter’s Companion has a whole host of themed papercraft dies to choose from, plus sets to build boxes, gift tags and frames for so many occasions.

Simple die cutting techniques

Die cutting machines are designed to be straight-forward, accessible and easy to use. Simply feed your die, card and cutting plates through the machine and watch as your die cut designs come to life!

There are different combinations of cutting plates and materials according to the type of die you are using. But don’t worry! Each Gemini Die Cutting machine comes with tools, accessories and a comprehensive instruction book to guide you through the process step-by-step.

Here are some simple instructions to help you get started:

Manual Machines

Gemini Midi and Gemini Mini machines are manual, so you can create delicate die cut designs at the turn of a handle! These die cutting machines are small, portable and so easy to use - making them perfect for beginners. Here’s how to die cut using a manual Gemini die cutting machine:

• Arrange your metal die onto your cardstock
• Place inside the Plastic Folder
• Turn the handle until the Plastic Folder comes out the back of the machine
• Open the folder to reveal a beautiful die-cut design!

Electronic Machines

The electronic Gemini and Gemini Junior Die Cutting machines use a motor to pull plates through the machine. So you can create multiple die cut designs at the touch of a button! As well as all the plates and accessories you need to get started, these machines also feature a pause and reverse button. So if you’ve made a mistake there’s no need to panic! Just pause, reverse and check your project for perfect peace of mind. Here’s a quick guide to die cutting with a Gemini or Gemini Junior:

• Choose your die and card, paper or other material
• Create the following combination in this order:
• Clear Cutting Plate
• Material to be cut
• Die with the blade facing the material
• Magnetic Shim
• Plastic Shim
• Clear Cutting Plate
• Feed the combination through the machine
• Remove from the back of the machine after the motor stops
• Open up your plate combination to see your beautiful die cut design!

This plate combination is used for standard metal dies with electric Gemini Die Cutting Machines.

Die cutting materials

Gemini machines will cut through a range of materials, so you can use dies for your sewing projects as well as cardmaking and scrapbooking!

Here’s a list of the materials you can die cut with Gemini machines:

• Paper
• Card
• Mountboard
• Foil
• Fabric
• Vellum
• Chipboard
• Vinyl
• Cork
• Foam

Die cutting is a versatile and fun craft technique that you can use to create decorations, centrepieces, frames and more for your homemade cards, scrapbook designs, papercraft gifts and home decor projects!

Want to get started with die cutting?

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