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We are constantly being asked, “How do you cut your shapes so perfectly?” Die cutting felt is an incredible process that results in clean, identical cuts – and you can do it from home! It allows for more precise crafting and makes our felt even more versatile and production friendly. This Back to Basics tutorial will help you understand the tools and methods used for die cutting that ensure perfect cuts every time!
Skill Level: Beginner
Supplies:
Die Cut Machine
Deep Etch Dies
Cutting Pads
Felt
Die Cutting Supplies
Die Cut Machine – There are two categories of machines: electronic and manual. There are several different brands of manual machines and most are interchangeable using a combination of platforms and shims. We use and recommend the Sizzix Big Shot Die Cut Machine. It is compact and substantial and makes thousands of cuts without losing any precision. You can read more about electronic cutting machines here.
Dies – Deep etch, wafer thin dies designed to cut through a variety of materials including paper, cardstock and fabric. Dies have a raised border that cuts the material when rolled through the die cut machine. Our exclusive deep etch dies easily cut our pure wool and wool blend felts.
Cutting Pads - Clear acrylic rectangles the die cuts into as they cut the felt. They last for hundreds of cuts and can be replaced when needed.
Multipurpose Platform – Thick plastic platform that serves as base for die cut components. Included with Sizzix Big Shot Machine.
Thin Die Adapter – Thin plastic platform that increases thickness and improves cutting quality of deep etch dies. Included with Sizzix Big Shot Machine.
Felt – Pure wool and wool blend felt are easily cut with deep etch dies. When cutting very small shapes, we recommend using pure wool felt as the increased density will help to hold the shape.
Preparing to Cut
Use metal snippers to cut apart die components and remove any metal tabs. Some smaller, similar die elements can stay attached.
Cut felt down to size to cover selected die pieces. A 6 x 9” sheet of felt covers the entire platform.
Cutting Felt Shapes
Create a die cut “sandwich” by assembling components in the following order from bottom to top:
1. Multipurpose Platform
2. Thin Die Adapter
3. Cutting Pad
4. Deep Etch Die (raised border face up)
5. Felt
6. Cutting Pad
Place sandwich on base of die cut machine and turn handle to roll through. Sandwich might need a nudge to start moving through.
Remove sandwich from other side of machine and separate components to retrieve cut felt shapes!
If shapes are not cutting cleanly, attempt rolling through machine twice or adjust cutting pressure by adding shims (metal shim or cardstock) to sandwich.
Find more tips and die cutting examples in these tutorials:
Sewing with Stitchable Dies
Classic Rose
Flora Moth
Quilt Block Coasters
You'll be making your own rainbows, flowers, ornaments and more in a flash with this time saving cutting tool.
Congratulations on learning a new skill! Be sure to check out our large selection of dies and stitchable dies that can help you get started on your next great craft adventure!
