Leaf cutting dies (2 of 3), circa 1910-1970s

Four leaf-shaped cutting dies used to make either plastic, wax cloth, or paper cutouts for exhibits, possibly between the 1910s and 1970s.

Cutting dies are a tool used to cut and/or form material to a desired shape or profile. Leaves or flowers were usually cut out from waxed gauze, however plastic and paper were also used. The gauze was laid on a wet block and the die was also dipped into water to prevent adhesion of the wax. The die was forced through the gauze with a sharp blow of a mallet, which produced a clean-cut edge. A die was used when many small parts were required. Most of the dies in the box are possibly made of lead. This was important because the weight of the material helped with the die cutting, which is now done by machine or scissors by hand.