Paper Cutting Dies -- Metal Dies for Paper Crafts & Scrapbooking
Paper cutting dies are thin metal templates that cut through paper, cardstock, and other materials when run through a die-cutting machine. If you've been cutting shapes by hand or relying only on digital files, metal dies offer a completely different experience -- clean edges, precise shapes, and no computer or electronic cutter required.
What Materials Can Paper Cutting Dies Handle?
Despite the name, metal cutting dies work on far more than just paper. Here's what our dies cut cleanly:
- Paper and cardstock. Standard copy paper, patterned scrapbook paper, and cardstock up to 110 lb cover weight all cut beautifully.
- Vellum and acetate. Translucent materials cut well -- use a shim for best results with very thin materials.
- Fabric and felt. Thin cotton fabric and craft felt cut with most dies. Use a fabric-cutting plate or wax paper backing for clean edges.
- Foam sheets. Craft foam and thin EVA foam cut cleanly for dimensional embellishments.
- Faux leather and cork. Thin faux leather sheets cut well for tags, die-cut shapes, and mixed-media projects.
Die-Cutting Machines That Work with Metal Dies
Metal paper cutting dies require a manual or electric die-cutting machine with a roller mechanism. The most popular machines include:
- Sizzix Big Shot / Big Shot Plus -- the most popular manual machine. Works with all standard wafer-thin dies.
- Spellbinders Platinum -- another excellent manual option with a wider cutting platform.
- Gemini by Crafter's Companion -- electric die-cutting machine for hands-free operation.
Important: metal dies do not work with electronic cutting machines like Cricut or Silhouette, which use digital files instead. If you have one of those machines, check out our SVG cut files.
Why Choose Our Dies?
Hip Kit Club designs and manufactures 135 exclusive metal dies that you won't find in any craft store or on Amazon. Our dies range from $7.95 to $38.95, and new designs release every month to coordinate with our scrapbook kit collections. Once a die sells out, it's gone for good -- our members love that each design is limited edition.
Our Latest Paper Cutting Dies
New exclusive designs added every month. From $7.95.
Tutorials & Inspiration
See how our designers and members use these dies in real projects:
Tutorial: Mixed Media + Cutfile Layout | Feb 2026 Hip K 
Tutorial: Adding Texture with Layers | January 2026 Hip 
Tutorial: Black & White with Pink Accents | January 202 
Tutorial: Scrapbook Layout Process | Jan 2026 Hip Kits Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between metal dies and digital cut files?
Metal dies are physical steel templates that cut shapes when run through a die-cutting machine with rollers. Digital cut files (SVGs) are electronic designs that require a Cricut, Silhouette, or Brother ScanNCut. Both produce cut shapes, but the tools are completely different. We sell metal dies and digital SVG cut files.
Can metal dies cut chipboard or thick materials?
Most wafer-thin dies are designed for materials up to 110 lb cardstock. Cutting chipboard or very thick materials can dull the cutting edge over time. For thick materials, specialty dies or electronic cutters work better.
How do I get started with paper die cutting?
You need a die-cutting machine (like a Sizzix Big Shot), cutting pads, and metal dies. Place your paper on the cutting pad, lay the die on top, cover with the second pad, and roll through the machine. The die cuts the shape instantly. Check out our complete guide to metal dies for a detailed walkthrough.
