Guide to Pressure Adjustment Tools for Die Cutting Machines

Pressure adjustment tools are essential accessories for achieving consistent, clean cuts with home and hobby die cutting machines. Whether you use a manual roller machine, an electric cutter, or a portable mini die cutter, controlling the amount of pressure applied to your dies and materials can make the difference between a perfect cut and a ruined project.

These tools come in several forms, including shims, platform systems, pressure dials, and digital controls. Each type works differently based on your machine’s design, but they all serve the same core purpose: fine-tuning the clearance between the cutting roller or plate and your die to match the thickness of your material stack.

This guide explains the main types of pressure adjustment tools, how they work, and how to use them safely and effectively for better die cutting results.

Quick Answer

Pressure adjustment tools let you fine-tune the clearance and force applied during die cutting. Common types include shims (thin sheets that add height), platform systems (adjustable base plates), pressure dials, and digital controls. Using the right pressure prevents incomplete cuts or embossing, reduces wear on dies, and extends machine life.

Understanding Pressure Adjustment Tools

Pressure adjustment tools are the unsung heroes of successful die cutting. They address a simple but critical variable: the gap between the cutting surface and the die. If that gap is too large, the die may not cut through completely, leaving partially attached pieces or faint embossing. If the gap is too small, you risk crushing the material, dulling the die, or even damaging the machine’s rollers or plates.

Home and hobby die cutting machines rely on consistent pressure to transfer the die’s cutting edge through paper, cardstock, fabric, felt, thin plastic, or other craft materials. Because materials vary in thickness and density, a one-size-fits-all pressure setting is rarely effective. That is where pressure adjustment tools come in. They allow you to add or reduce height, change the roller clearance, or adjust digital force parameters to suit each project.

Understanding the different types of pressure adjustment tools helps you choose the right accessory for your specific machine and material combination. Below, we break down the most common tools used by crafters at home and in small craft businesses.

Shims: The Thin Layer Solution

Shims are among the simplest and most versatile pressure adjustment tools available. A shim is typically a thin, flat sheet made from plastic, metal, cardstock, or specialized shim material. You place a shim on top of or beneath your cutting sandwich—the stack of plates, die, and material—to slightly increase the overall height. This reduces the gap and increases the pressure applied by the machine’s rollers or press.

Shims are especially popular for manual roller die cutting machines. On many of these machines, the standard platform and cutting plates are designed for a moderate material thickness, such as a single sheet of cardstock. When you cut thinner materials like vellum or delicate paper, the die may not press firmly enough without an extra layer. Adding a paper or plastic shim can make up the difference. Conversely, if you cut thicker materials like chipboard or multiple layers of fabric, you may need to remove a shim or use a thinner platform to avoid over-pressurizing.

One advantage of shims is that they are inexpensive and often already available in your craft room. A piece of printer paper, a sheet of acetate, or a dedicated metal shim can all work as long as the thickness is consistent. Many manufacturers sell pre-cut shim packs with labeled thicknesses, which helps you repeat settings reliably. Always keep track of which shim combination works for each die and material, and store them flat to prevent warping.

Platform Systems: Adjustable Bases for Fine Control

Platform systems take the concept of shims and build it into a dedicated, often adjustable base plate. Instead of stacking loose sheets, you use a platform with one or more removable layers or a mechanism that changes its thickness. Some manual machines include a multi-purpose platform that can be flipped or reconfigured to provide different heights for cutting, embossing, or letterpress work.

A typical adjustable platform may consist of a base plate and several thin insert plates. By adding or removing inserts, you change the total thickness of the platform and therefore the pressure. For example, a platform with two inserts might give you three possible settings: base only, base plus one insert, or base plus two inserts. This allows you to quickly switch between cutting thin paper and embossing thick cardstock without searching for separate shims.

Platform systems are often recommended for machines that have a fixed roller gap and no built-in pressure dial. They provide repeatable, predictable pressure adjustments. Some platforms are magnetically held together, while others slide into a tray. Always consult your machine’s manual to understand which platform configurations are safe and recommended. Using too many inserts can create excessive pressure that bends the die or damages the rollers.

Pressure Dials and Knobs

Many electric and some manual die cutting machines include a pressure dial or knob that directly adjusts the roller gap or cutting force. This is often a numbered dial (for example, 1 through 6) or a simple high-medium-low setting. Turning the dial changes the distance between the cutting rollers, allowing you to accommodate different material thicknesses without adding physical shims.

Pressure dials are convenient because they provide instant adjustment and can be documented in your project notes. However, the exact meaning of each dial position varies from machine to machine. A setting of 3 on one machine may not equal the same pressure as a 3 on another. Always start with the manufacturer’s recommended setting for your material type, then test on a scrap piece before cutting your final project. If the cut is incomplete, increase the pressure slightly; if the material is crushed or the backing paper tears, reduce it.

Some manual machines use a side knob that adjusts the roller height in small increments. This functions similarly to a dial but may require you to test and record the knob position for different die and material combos. Pressure dials and knobs are particularly useful when you frequently switch between paper, vinyl, felt, and thin metal sheets, as you can quickly dial in the right force without changing the physical sandwich.

Digital Controls and Preset Settings

Advanced electric die cutting machines often feature digital controls with preset material settings. Instead of manually adjusting a dial or adding shims, you select the material type (e.g., cardstock, fabric, balsa wood) on a touchscreen or through companion software, and the machine automatically sets the appropriate pressure, speed, and sometimes blade depth. This is a form of pressure adjustment because the machine internally changes the roller clearance or cutting force based on the preset.

Digital controls reduce guesswork and are especially helpful for beginners or for repetitive production work. However, they are not foolproof. Material brands and thicknesses can vary, so the preset may not always produce a perfect cut on the first pass. Many digital machines allow you to fine-tune the pressure beyond the preset, either by a custom setting or by manually overriding the default. Use this feature to adjust for unique materials like textured cardstock, glitter paper, or multiple layers.

Keep in mind that digital pressure control is typically found on electric machines with motorized rollers or cutting mats. Manual machines rarely have digital presets, so shims and platforms remain the primary tools for those users. If you own both types of machines, understanding both analog and digital pressure adjustment methods gives you maximum flexibility.

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Machine

Selecting the best pressure adjustment tool depends on your machine’s design, the materials you cut most often, and your budget. Manual machines with fixed roller gaps generally rely on shims or adjustable platforms. Electric machines may have built-in dials or digital controls, though you can still use a shim if the built-in range is insufficient. Portable and mini die cutters usually have simpler pressure systems, so a few paper shims may be all you need.

Before buying any accessory, check your machine’s manual or manufacturer’s website (if available) for compatible platform systems and recommended shim thicknesses. Using an incompatible platform can damage the machine or void the warranty. If you are unsure, a basic set of paper or plastic shims is a safe starting point because you can layer them to achieve the desired pressure without investing in a dedicated platform.

For crafters who cut a wide variety of materials, an adjustable platform system offers the most convenience. For occasional users who mainly cut standard cardstock, a few homemade or purchased shims may suffice. Electric machine owners should explore the built-in pressure dial or digital presets before buying additional accessories, as these features may already provide enough range for most projects.

General Usage Tips for Consistent Results

Regardless of which pressure adjustment tool you use, a few best practices will help you achieve repeatable, clean cuts. Always test a new die, material, or pressure setting on a scrap piece first. Keep a simple log or sticky note with the shim combination, dial position, or digital preset that worked for each project. This saves time and reduces wasted materials.

When layering shims, add one at a time and test after each addition. Adding too much pressure at once can crack a die, tear delicate paper, or damage the machine’s rollers. If you hear unusual straining or the handle becomes difficult to turn, stop immediately and remove a shim or reduce the dial setting. The cutting sandwich should move through the machine with moderate, even resistance—never extreme force.

Clean your shims and platform surfaces regularly to remove paper dust, adhesive residue, and debris. Even a tiny bump or dried glue spot can create uneven pressure and cause incomplete cuts or crooked lines. Store shims flat in a dry place to prevent curling. For electric machines with digital controls, occasionally run a calibration or maintenance cycle if recommended by the manufacturer.

Remember that pressure adjustment is not a one-time task. As your dies wear down slightly over time, you may need to increase pressure by a hair. As your machine’s rollers break in, the original settings may need slight adjustment. Pay attention to the quality of your cuts and adjust accordingly. With practice, you will develop an intuitive sense of when to add a shim, turn a dial, or tweak a digital preset.

Maintenance and Care of Pressure Adjustment Tools

Proper care extends the life of your pressure adjustment tools and ensures consistent performance. Shims made of plastic or metal should be wiped clean with a soft, dry cloth after each session. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could degrade plastic or leave residues. Paper shims should be replaced when they become bent, creased, or compressed, as they lose their precise thickness.

Adjustable platforms often have moving parts or magnetic layers that can collect dust. Disassemble the platform if possible and gently clean each layer with a microfiber cloth. Check for warping or damage, especially if you have accidentally over-pressurized a project. A warped platform will not sit flat and will cause uneven cutting. If your platform is damaged, replace it rather than trying to bend it back, as this can create further inconsistencies.

For machines with pressure dials or knobs, keep the control area free of paper fibers and debris. If the dial becomes stiff or difficult to turn, consult the manual for cleaning or lubrication instructions. Never force a dial beyond its intended range. Digital controls require no physical cleaning beyond wiping the screen, but you should update the machine firmware if the manufacturer provides updates that improve pressure calibration or add new material presets.

Conclusion

Pressure adjustment tools are a small but vital part of any home or hobby die cutting setup. By understanding how shims, platform systems, pressure dials, and digital controls work, you can fine-tune your machine for a wide range of materials and achieve clean, professional-looking cuts every time. Start with the simplest tool that matches your machine, test carefully, and keep notes. As you gain experience, you will find that the right pressure adjustment tool transforms your cutting projects from frustrating to effortless.

FAQ

What are pressure adjustment tools for die cutting machines?

Pressure adjustment tools are accessories or built-in features that let you change the clearance or force applied when cutting. They include shims, adjustable platforms, pressure dials, and digital controls. Their purpose is to match the machine’s pressure to the thickness and toughness of your material for clean, complete cuts.

Can I use paper as a shim?

Yes, plain printer paper, cardstock, or acetate can work as a shim in many manual die cutting machines. Paper shims are inexpensive and easy to layer. However, they can compress over time and may not be as durable or consistent as dedicated plastic or metal shims, so check thickness regularly.

How do I know if I need more or less pressure?

If the die does not cut all the way through the material, or the cut is incomplete in some areas, you likely need more pressure. If the material is crushed, the backing paper tears, or the die leaves deep impressions, you probably have too much pressure. Test on scrap pieces and adjust gradually.

Are pressure dials and digital presets better than shims?

Not necessarily better, just different. Pressure dials and digital presets are convenient because they adjust quickly without adding physical layers. Shims offer a manual, low-tech solution that works on nearly any machine, especially manual rollers. The best tool depends on your machine type and personal preference.

Can I use the same pressure setting for all materials?

No, different materials require different pressure. Thin paper needs less pressure than thick cardstock, chipboard, or multiple fabric layers. Always adjust the pressure or shims when switching materials, and keep notes to remember the correct setting for each project type.