Die cutter holding and lifting systems, apparatuses, and methods for use with custom and commercially available die cutters. According to some examples, a system includes a base, a separation assembly, and an actuation assembly. A separation assembly can be coupled to the die cutter, and the die cutter in combination with the separation assembly can be coupled to the base, such that the actuation assembly can be utilized to cause a separation of die plates of the die cutter for increased productivity in cutting, stamping, or pressing operations involving die cutters.