One of our favorite dies from the Spring 2012 Core Collection release is the Pinwheel die! This shape is fun for parties, scrapbook layouts, cards, garlands, table decor, etc. Because it is a dimensional shape, it can be tricky to assemble if you've never done it before. Here is a step-by-step tutorial for the first time you use your Pinwheel die.

Step 1: Cut your paper of choice and roll through your die-cut machine (Epic 6, Cuttlebug, Sizzix Big Shot, Vagabond, etc).

This is what the shape will look like once it is cut out. Notice you get both pieces of the pinwheel in one run through your machine.  

Step 2: Place each piece on top of one another.

Step 3: Using your fingers, twist each piece in opposite directions.  Each slit in each piece should overlap.

Step 4: Begin folding over each piece towards the center. I do this before assembling with a brad to make it easier to control once I'm ready to place the brad in the middle. 

Step 5: The Pinwheel die comes with this decorative flower for the middle.  Cut it out in the color of your choice.  Now that all of your folds are in place, it's time to start assembling! Place the brad into the top of the flower.

Step 6: Take each piece one by one and put the brad through the pre-cut holes.

Step 7: Secure the brad on the back of the pinwheel. 

Wa-la! A perfect pinwheel.  Here's a tip: the thicker the paper you use, the harder it will be to assemble. Thick papers (like the one demonstrated above) produce great results, but thinner papers will be easier to work with.

Tomorrow we're sharing some fun projects you can make with the Pinwheel die. Stay tuned!