Using die-cut shapes can be fun and creative. Get out your old shapes, dust off your die-cutting machine, or try create some of your own for ideas that will look fresh new.

Add texture to flat shapes of die cuts. One way to accent your die cuts is to add some dimension and texture. Consider embossing or run a shape through a crimper (or the texture plates). After you have added the texture, add ink or paint to create highlights and shadows in the paper to further enhance the texture.

Some different ways to ad texture your die-cut shape are layering, folding, crumpling, sanding, or tearing. Also consider using foam tape or dots to add dimension to the shape.

Mix with other embellishments that you can use to accent your die cuts. Try fiber, brads, buttons, ribbon, clips, glitter, wire, charms or beads. Use an embellishment in place of a part of the die cut. For example, if you are using a balloon die cut, use fiber for the string..

Use material other than paper. Pull out some foam, shrink plastic, aluminum foil, fabric, or other materials. You will have to experiment with your die-cutting machine to see what will work in it. I have found that I can at least make most of the cut, and then I take scissors to snip the remainder of the shape.

Combine with new techniques that are popular right now. Try stamping, computer-generated text, doodling, patterned paper, sewing and rub-ons. For example, try stamping a piece of paper with a background stamp, then cutting your shape. Cut a shape, then hand cut an outline around the negative for a whimsical outline shape.