Paper Cutter Guide

Paper trimmers use a sliding blade mechanism that moves along a track, while guillotine cutters use a hinged blade that chops down like a traditional paper cutter. Trimmers are generally safer and easier to use, while guillotine cutters can handle thicker materials and multiple sheets.

For proxy cards, a 10-12 inch cutting length is ideal. This allows you to cut multiple cards at once from a standard 8.5x11 inch sheet. If you're only cutting one card at a time, a smaller trimmer will work, but larger trimmers are more efficient for batch cutting.

While scissors can work for cutting proxy cards, they won't provide the same precision and consistency as a paper cutter. Scissors can lead to uneven edges and inconsistent card sizes. A paper cutter ensures uniform, professional-looking results.

Keep the blade clean by wiping it with a soft cloth after use. Avoid cutting materials that could dull the blade like cardboard or laminated paper. Most paper cutters have replaceable blades - replace when cuts become ragged or require multiple passes.

Always use the safety guard if provided, keep fingers away from the cutting area, and ensure the cutter is on a stable surface. For guillotine cutters, use the safety lock when not in use. Never leave children unsupervised with paper cutters.

Use the grid markings on the cutter to align your paper precisely. Make sure the paper is flat and not curled. Apply even pressure when cutting, and don't rush the cutting motion. For best results, practice on scrap paper first.