Hinged Die-cuts Tutorial

Hinged die-cutting is a great way to add an interactive element to your projects and experiment with layering.

What is hinged die-cutting? It’s using pieces of acetate to create ‘invisible’ hinges that can be added to a topper to create an opening. Unlike the usual use of toppers, with hinged die-cutting they become a dynamic element of your design. This technique can be used a couple of times in the same project to create an interesting series of interactions.

These can open in any direction depending on the main die used. You might have a hidden sentiment underneath, or something like money or a gift card tucked inside. Hinged die-cutting can work favourably for masculine cards because of their tactile, hands-on approach to design. You don’t have to limit this technique to just cards either, experiment with ideas like wall art, canvasses, 3D projects and so on!

The technique works great for shaker cards in particular. This is because both elements are facilitated by movement. When opening the hinged die-cut, the sequins inside will move with it.

Hinged die-cutting will considerably extend the utility of your dies by making you think of them in brand-new ways. There are lots of possibilities – take a look through your stash and get creative!