Delicate die-cut shapes with the Gemini Nesting Dies
- Read time: 3 minutes
- Written by: Crafter's Companion
Cutting shapes by hand from paper or card can often lead to uneven edges, incorrect sizings or projects that just don’t look quite right. While it can be fun to try and go it alone, we’ve got the perfect solution to these problems – the Gemini Elements Nesting Dies! These versatile sets of dies can be used for a whole host of projects, including cards, scrapbooks, gift tags and so much more, so they’d make the perfect addition to any stash.
There are nine sets available – three shapes in three different edge designs. We’ve got squares, rectangles and hexagons, each with a stitched edge, a torn edge or a scalloped edge, so there’s bound to be a set that suits your needs.
Stitch Edge – these dies will cut out the shapes whilst adding an embossed, stitched detail around the inside edges.
Torn Edge – adds a torn edge when cutting out the shapes, so you don’t have to hand-tear, helping you to avoid mistakes.
Scallop Edge – cuts the shapes with a delicate scalloping around the outer edge, giving almost a doily effect.
As these are nesting dies, each set set features a number of dies that decrease in size. That means that each die has been scaled to fit perfectly in the centre of the next size up, giving you the opportunity to create some lovely layers on your projects or create fantastic frames. You could even try pairing up dies from across the sets for a beautiful effect.
Not only are they ideal for cutting out shapes, they’re also perfect for cutting in, so you can try your hand at creating aperture cards, shaker cards or pretty peekaboo cards! You can then use the negatives of these cut ins as gift tags or embellishments for other projects. The possibilities truly do go on!
Use these dies exactly how would use any standard die – simply place your chosen die with the blade side facing upwards on to your cutting plate. Add your favourite card or paper on top, then sandwich the whole thing with another cutting plate. Slowly roll this through your die-cutting machine and you’ll be left with a crisp cut every time.
If you’re creating frames, just put the larger shape on to the cutting plate and add the smaller shape inside. Use some Low Tack Tape to hold both dies in place, then continue with your sandwich before rolling through the machine.
We know that you’re going to love the versatility of the Gemini Elements Nesting Dies as much as we do, and we hope you’re looking forward to discovering all the incredible effects you can achieve with them.
We hope this post has given you a bit of inspiration, so we’d love to see your nesting die creations on social media. Share your photos with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #crafterscompanion.
