Paper inserts are used with 13mm die sets to frame a pellet for ease of handling, to make micro pellets or to enable making a pellet from a smaller sample charge. Use of paper inserts also facilitates removal of the pellet and mounting it in a magnetic holder. The paper inserts fit into the bore of the die set and create a small frame into which the pellet is compressed. The inserts are made from heavy manila stock similar to the type used to make office file jackets.