How I Cut Easy Stitch Faux Leather (And Get Clean Stitch Holes Every Time)
If you’ve ever struggled with cutting Easy Stitch designs and getting those little stitch holes to cut cleanly, you’re definitely not alone. I’ve seen a few questions pop up lately, so I thought it was time to put everything I do in one place.
Below is my exact process, the same one I use every time when cutting Easy Stitch designs. With the right setup, it really does make all the difference.
The Materials I Use
Before we get into settings, let’s talk materials. These matter more than most people realise.
I’m using:
-
A purple StrongGrip mat (not brand new, but still sticky)
-
Canvas-backed faux leather
-
A brayer, and I mean really using it
-
A deep point blade
The brayer step is important. I roll firmly and thoroughly to make sure there is absolutely no movement in the faux leather while cutting. Movement is one of the biggest causes of poorly cut stitch holes.
Cricut Settings for Easy Stitch Faux Leather
Once your design is on your canvas and ready to go, here’s how I set up my cut.
Step 1: Choose the Base Material
I use the Heavy Fabrics – Denim Bonded setting as my base. This is my go-to for faux leather, especially Easy Stitch designs.
Step 2: Increase the Pressure
This is the step many people miss.
-
Click Browse All Materials
-
Scroll all the way down to Material Settings
-
Find Heavy Fabric – Denim Bonded (Fine Point Blade version)
-
Increase the pressure right up to 350
-
Save the setting
Even though it says fine point blade, I still use this setting with a deep point blade, and it works beautifully.
Step 3: Cut With More Pressure
Back on the material screen:
-
Select Heavy Fabric
-
Select More pressure
-
Make sure your deep point blade is installed
Now start the cut. Stitch holes take time, so don’t worry if it feels slow. I usually go and do something else while it’s cutting.
Checking the Cut Before Removing the Mat
Once the cut finishes, I always test it before ejecting the mat.
I gently pop out a few stitch holes using a weeder to check they’ve cut cleanly. If they have, you’re good to go.
How I Remove Stitch Holes (My Preferred Method)
There are a few ways to remove stitch holes, and everyone has their favourite. Here’s mine.
My Go-To Method
Once the faux leather is off the mat:
-
Turn it over
-
Gently roll and fold the edges from behind
-
Use your thumb and finger to roll the faux leather
You’ll find the little stitch holes just pop out. It does take a bit of time, but it’s quite satisfying, and the result is a really neat, clean finish. That neat finish is exactly why Easy Stitch designs have pre-cut holes in the first place.
Other Helpful Tools
If some holes are a bit stubborn, you can also use:
-
A needle to loosen and pop them out
-
A pokey tool (like the one that comes with KamSnaps) for individual holes
All three methods work. It’s just about finding what feels easiest for you.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, most Easy Stitch cutting issues come down to:
-
The material being used
-
Not using a strong grip mat
-
Not brayering firmly enough
-
Not using enough pressure
If you ever get stuck or something doesn’t look right, please reach out. I’m always happy to help and troubleshoot with you.
Happy creating,
Ria 🤍
Frequently Asked Questions
What mat should I use for Easy Stitch designs?
A purple StrongGrip mat is essential. You need strong grip to prevent movement while cutting stitch holes.
Do I need a deep point blade?
I always recommend a deep point blade for Easy Stitch faux leather. It gives cleaner cuts and better results for the holes but you can use the fine point blade too.
Why are my stitch holes not cutting all the way through?
This is usually caused by:
-
Not enough pressure
-
Faux leather lifting or moving on the mat
-
A blade that isn’t sharp enough
Make sure you’re using increased pressure and brayering firmly.
Can I use the tape method to remove holes?
Yes, tape works for some people, but I personally prefer rolling the faux leather from behind. It gives me more control and a neater finish.
Does the type of faux leather matter?
Yes, it really does. Canvas-backed faux leather cuts far more cleanly than softer or stretchy materials. If you’re struggling, try switching materials.
Should I eject the mat straight after cutting?
No. Always test the cut first by popping out a few holes. This saves frustration if something hasn’t cut properly.