The History and Evolution of Tree Lot Dies for Crafters and Hobbyists

The Fascinating History of Tree Lot Dies

Tree lot dies have become a beloved tool for crafters and hobbyists in recent years. But where did these cute and clever dies originate? Their history is an interesting one!

Tree lot dies are thin metal dies that can be run through manual die-cutting machines to cut shapes and patterns out of paper, fabric, felt, and other materials. They allow crafters to quickly and easily cut out intricate designs like Christmas trees, wreaths, snowflakes, and more.

While tree lot dies have exploded in popularity in the modern crafting world, their origins can be traced back over a century. The technology used to create steel dies and die cutters first emerged in the 19th century as the machines became more automated and refined.

One of the earliest recorded uses of steel dies for crafting purposes was in Germany in the 1870s. Dies were used to cut and emboss intricate floral designs into paper. This paved the way for more elaborate paper die cuts to be created and sold.

The Rise of Christmas Tree Lot Dies

By the early 1900s, Christmas-themed dies gained traction in both Germany and America. Punch-style machines and presses were developed that allowed crafters to easily cut shapes like Christmas trees, ornaments, stars, and holly leaves out of paper and cardstock.

Christmas cards, decorations, and crafts grew in popularity around this time. Die-cut embellishments and images allowed crafters to decorate their handmade creations with beautiful designs that would have been difficult to cut by hand.

Many early American greeting card companies like Hallmark, Gibson, and Norcross utilized die-cut decorations and illustrations on their Christmas cards and products. Christmas tree lot dies grew in styles and varieties through the early to mid-1900s.

The Mid-Century Crafting Boom

In the 1950s and 1960s, die cutting and embossing saw a major boom in the United States and Europe as crafting grew into a popular hobby. Die cutting machines like the Sizzix Sidekick and Ellison machines allowed home crafters to cut their own shapes and designs.

A wider variety of materials like felt, vinyl, foam, and soft metals could be run through the manual die cutting machines. More complex dies in themes like Christmas, nature, dolls, and animals became available as the technology advanced.

It was during this mid-century craft and design movement that many recognizable and nostalgic tree lot die designs were first created. They echoed the popular mid-century aesthetic with retro motifs.

Modern Die Cutting Machines

In the 1980s and 90s, electronic die cutting machines started to replace the manual turn-handle models. Models like the Cricut and Silhouette electronic cutting machines could cut dies more quickly and accurately using digital software.

Today, tree lot dies are predominantly cut with electronic die cutting machines. The dies are made from thin metal plates etched with designs using photochemical machining. Modern dies can cut very intricate patterns and designs.

Electronic cutting machines have made die cutting even more accessible to crafters. The convenience of being able to send a design straight from a computer to the cutter has fueled the popularity of dies like tree lot dies.

Tree Lot Dies Today

Tree lot dies today are used by everyone from cardmakers and scrapbookers to fabric and quilt crafters. Common themes include Christmas trees, wreaths, snowflakes, winter woodland animals, and seasonal phrases.

They provide an easy way for both novice and advanced crafters to cut detailed designs out of paper, felt, fabric, foam, vinyl, and more. Tree lot dies can be used to cut singular images or paired with other dies to create multi-layered cards, decorations, quilts, accessory pouches, and other projects.

In addition to traditional standalone steel dies, many tree lot dies are now available in a more affordable thin plastic. These work well for occasional crafters or those who want to build up a large die collection without spending a fortune.

Tips for Using Tree Lot Dies

Here are some top tips for getting the most out of your tree lot dies:

• Use die cutting machines according to manufacturer instructions for smooth, accurate cuts.
• Place the die face down on your material before running it through the machine.
• Use die cutting release agents like washi tape or die cut spray for easy die removal.
• Cut several shapes at once by nesting dies together to save time.
• Try cutting from the backside of paper for a smooth cut edge.
• Use metal dies on sturdy materials like cardstock, wood, and soft metals.
• Reserve plastic dies for lighter materials like paper and vinyl.
• Clean dies after use to prevent buildup and dulling of the cutting edges.

Creative Ways to Use Tree Lot Dies

Tree lot dies aren't just for Christmas crafts! Here are some creative ways to use them:

• Make wreath dies into flower wreaths or sunburst designs for spring/summer crafts.
• Use small pine tree dies to cut leaf shapes from green paper for woodland scenes.
• Cut tree dies from felt to make holiday finger puppets and ornaments.
• Use snowflake dies on t-shirts, tote bags, and other fabric items.
• Layer tree dies with circle dies to create abstract botanical designs.
• Cut tree dies from vinyl to make window clings and laptop decals.
• Make winter garlands by stringing together die-cut paper snowflakes.
• Craft woodland critter finger puppets using small animal dies like foxes, deer, and owls.

Tree lot dies can lend themselves to so many projects year-round. The key is getting creative with patterns, colors, and materials!

Where to Find Tree Lot Dies

Tree lot dies can be found at most major craft retailers either in stores or online. Some top places to find a wide selection include:

• Michaels
• Hobby Lobby
• Joann Fabrics
• Amazon

Specialty online retailers like Simon Says Stamp, Scrapbook.com, and AliExpress also offer a huge variety of tree lot dies. eBay can be great for finding discounted and vintage dies.

For the biggest selection, browse the websites of die manufacturing brands like Sizzix, Spellbinders, Darice, Ellison, Tim Holtz, and Lawn Fawn.

Save Money on Dies

Tree lot dies can range in price from a few dollars for simple plastic dies to over $20 for intricate steel dies by premium brands. Here are some tips for saving money:

• Shop sales, coupons, and promotions from craft stores.
• Sign up for email/newsletters from brands and retailers to get discount codes.
• Buy dies as part of bundled sets which are usually cheaper overall.
• Look for dies made from plastic or resin rather than steel.
• Check clearance sections both online and in stores.
• Split costs with crafty friends by sharing dies.
• Buy gently used dies from resale sites like eBay and Etsy.

With some strategic shopping, you can build up an impressive die collection without spending a fortune. Sales like Cyber Monday, after-Christmas sales, and craft store discounts are great times to buy.

Tree Lot Dies: A Crafter's Best Friend

Tree lot dies have come a long way from their early beginnings over a century ago. While the technology has advanced, the appeal remains the same.

Tree lot dies make it possible for crafters of all skill levels to easily cut out intricate designs and patterns. They save tons of time compared to hand cutting.

Whether you love making Christmas cards, sewing quilted pieces, or crafting woodland critters, tree lot dies open up a world of possibilities. They allow you to add special details that would be difficult or impossible to create from scratch.

With so many cool designs to choose from, tree lot dies can become dangerously addictive! They are affordable enough that you'll want to collect them all. From classic Christmas trees to cute mittens, sleds, and forest animals, you'll never run out of fun new dies to try.

So embrace your inner crafter and get busy die cutting. Let those tree lot dies inspire your next project masterpiece!

FAQs

What materials can I use with tree lot dies?

Tree lot dies can cut a wide variety of materials including cardstock, patterned paper, vinyl, felt, fabric, foam, thin wood, and more. Metal dies work best for thicker materials like wood while plastic dies are good for paper and vinyl.

What is the difference between metal and plastic dies?

Metal dies are more durable, allow for finer detail, and can cut thicker materials than plastic dies. However, plastic dies are more affordable and still work well for occasional crafters. Plastic is best for paper while metal can handle cardstock, fabric, felt, etc.

What projects can I make with tree lot dies?

Tree lot dies are very versatile and can be used to make Christmas cards, ornaments, garlands, quilts, wall art, tote bags, decals, wood signs, holiday decor, and much more. They add lovely detail to any papercraft or fabric project.