Measurement question

[mouseprints]

I know there are no dumb questions, but this might be a strange one. ;)

Where do I line my paper up on the ruler for when I'm cutting paper? I'm taking all cutters; all styles, all brands, etc. Do I line the edge of my paper up to the front of the measurement line, the middle of the line or the back side of the line? I'm confused, and I've been crafting for years. lol

For example, I want to cut a piece of paper to go from one end of a card to the other (the tall part of the card is up). So I cut the piece of paper 2" x 5.5". I go and lay it on the card and it sticks over the end of the card by a hair or so, which I have to cut off with my scissors. I go and cut another piece of paper and when I lay it on the card it is just under the edge of the card by a hair. What am I doing wrong? :mad:

Is there a certain side of the measurement line that we are suppose to use to get an exact size?

Thanks.

[eaparham]

depends on what trimmer you're using. I line mine up with where the blade is going to cut, if that makes any sense....then when you look to the left, you see where the measure ment is. You could always measure and make a mark before you cut.

[trilatius]

I think I know what you mean. It happens to me too. I haven't found a complete solution yet, but what I try to do is to be consistent when I am measuring and cutting for a project. If I used the front of the line for one piece of paper, I try to remember to keep using the same side for the others. Most of the time, though, I forget, so when I finish I trim the excess from behind with a craft knife.

[JBgreendawn]

almost every cutter i have ever bought will cut off if you have the paper pushed all the way to the top (where the measurements are) and then are trying to line it up by the measurements on the side... so i slide my paper down from being pushed up against the top guide and just use the left side measurements to keep the cut straight with the blade if that makes sense?

I do the same thing with my score pal...

hth