Today: cutting a perfect straight edge!

It may sound like a simple thing, but getting a clean straight cut when you’re creating isn’t always easy. I’ve tried little sliding blade paper cutters, I’ve tried scissors, and a massive expensive paper cutter….the scary kind, if you have kids around! So I’ve stuck with my old college graphic design class method, with a tweak.

So here’s the Supplies you need for a clean straight cut:

1. a cutting board
2. a metal or metal edged ruler
3. here’s the tweak…a sheetrock knife! Skip the awkward craft knife and go straight for the man’s tool! You can find one at a hardware store. (and I spray painted mine turquoise….because, well, turquoise! )

Then the Skill….

1. line up your ruler …either on a line on your paper or using the ruler on your cutting mat.
2. with the knife blade perpendicular to the paper, flat up again the ruler, pull the knife towards you. PLEASE… keep your fingers out of the way!! Start with light pressure and repeat the same cut until it goes through the paper. A thick piece of cardboard may take 3 or 4 passes… that’s the key to a clean cut.

And that’s it!! So easy…and so effective! Tell me you don’t love it!

Till next time!