How to Use a Craft Knife on Paper

[Mirabella]

Hi! I was trying to emulate a video by K Werner in which she uses a craft knife to cut out a heart shape. It came out awful- all raggedy around the edges.
Does anyone have tips or know of a video tutorial? The blade was all but new so it wasn't that. Maybe this is just not the technique for me...

[Mrs Noofy]

One thing I have found is don't use a cutting mat. I cut on a piece of glass instead. The craft knife seems to glide more smoothly and it is easier to go around corners. The cutting mat seems to grab the knife and prevents a smooth cut. Hope that is some help.

[kiki_mac]

I think it is a matter of practicing to find the pressure on the knife that works for you. I have sometimes put too much pressure and ended up with torn/ragged edges too. I now find what works for me is to use light pressure, take my time, and go over it more than once.

I haven't tried a glass surface but agree that self-healing craft mats have tended to not work that well for me either - the knife seems to get caught in the surface easily and stops. I now use some chipboard with several pieces of old paper on top.

[lutheran]

Make sure blade is really sharp, use a glass cutting mat and practice turning the project so you are always cutting towards yourself. Practice with a plain circle or oval and you will get the feel of it to get perfect curves.
Mary Beth

[buggainok]

I think I am a little afraid of craft knives, and gave up pretty quickly trying to learn to use one effectively.

I am much more comfortable with dies and my paper trimmer, so I stick with them. I've watched lots of videos of folks who are amazingly good at it, so I know it can be done - just not by me.

[Mirabella]

Thanks, all. I definitely did not have the right surface underneath. I am not sure that was the only issue, but next time I will try a hard cutting board or something.
Bubbainok, I may join you in leaving my craft knife for tasks other than cutting, such as picking up small embellishments and stickers!