How to Use Paper Cutting Knife (Tip and Tricks)

Tips:
1I’m using a large matchbox, mainly because the bottom of the box is smooth and makes a good background. I also like that I can slide on the cover to protect it if I want. (If you use a matchbox, please be certain to store the matches in a safe place away from children.)
2You’ll need a transparent ruler… this one is from the dollar store.
3You’ll need some heavy weight paper, like cardstock. I prefer this smooth Bristol paper over standard cardstock. Stiffer paper is slightly more difficult to cut, but holds up much better when erasing, so opt for a heavier paper.
4You’ll need a pencil. My go-to pencil for lettering is Sakura’s Sumo Grip®, because I don’t need to stop to sharpen it, and it has a great extendable eraser.
5You’ll need a craft knife. An X-acto knife works fine, or you can check your hardware store for a blade like this. They’re typically less expensive at hardware stores than craft stores.
6Finally, you’ll need a Quickie Glue™ pen, which is really the best adhesive I’ve found for these delicate pieces. It allows for precise application with zero mess.

How to:
made with
cardstock
craft knife
cutting mat
pencil
Quickie Glue pen
matchbox (Optional)
ruler
1Start by measuring your box to determine what size to draw your canvas. Mark this on your sheet of cardstock.
2Make a quick thumbnail sketch of your idea. It can be an illustrated scene, hand-drawn lettering, or both. Play around with rough designs until you have a good idea of what you want your finished project to look like.
3Sketch out your design within the canvas you drew on cardstock. If you’re doing a layered scene, first draw the layer that will be furthest toward the back of the box. Mine will be a city skyline. I’d adding rectangle tabs at the bottom. These will get folded backwards and adhered to the box, allowing the paper to stand upright.
4Carefully put a fresh blade in your craft knife. (Please remember that these are razor-sharp, and use extreme caution at all times. Never let a child handle a craft knife.)
5Start by cutting the interior spaces, like the windows. Always cut away from your body. I find it’s easiest to make all the cuts in one direction, then turn the paper to make all the cuts in the next direction, and so on. Some of the inserts you cut may pop out, but don’t purposely remove them yet. It’s easier to erase when they’re intact.
6Gently erase the pencil marks.
7Use the tip of the craft knife to lift out the inserts. Don’t ever force the paper, if it seems to be sticking, cut that area again to release it.
8Crease the tabs behind the cut-out. Add Quickie Glue™ to the front side of each of the tabs. This goes on light blue, but dries perfectly clear. Press to the bottom of the box. I love this glue because the adhesive ends up only where you want it!
9Now I’m ready for my second layer. I’ve decided to use some orange cardstock to cut some flames, as they’ll go along with the song lyrics I’ve chosen. I’m drawing the flames within the canvas I drew. I made this canvas ¼ inch smaller than the first, so the first will be able to peek out behind it. Add Quickie Glue to the tabs and adhere to the box.