punching....
 

Hi, I am brand new to learning how to make cards (as you're about to discover!). One thing I cannot figure out is this: When I see cards that have 2 or 3 layers of rectangles layered on top of one another in different patterns, they are always cut so perfectly. No one can do that with scissors! :) So, are they using some sort of punch that I'm not aware of or is there some technique to cutting really straight lines to make these?

Thanks so much!

yes there are punches out there that you use for your layered look or depending on the size they may be cutting them with there paper cutter too
hope that helps
debbie j

You'll find that your paper trimmer is your best friend when it comes to card making. :) You'll get the best variations in size with a trimmer.
Have fun and welcome! You'll find lots of inspiration here!

I find a small guilliotine works best, for small pieces or a paper cutter. enjoy your cardmaking.
sheila :-)

If it's different patterns like scalloped rectangles and so on, then it is most likely the Nestabilities diecuts from Spellbinders. Here's a link for you - http://spellbinderspaperarts.com/nestabilities.
They will work in all the manual die-cutting machines with the right adaptor plates. And they are great, yes.
But for plain rectangles, a ruler with a steel edge and a sharp knife is how I do it. Tim Holz and Judikins both make clear rulers which have markings along them so you can see how much you are cutting, and a steel edge so that you don't accidentally cut the ruler!!
You can also buy punches - I have loads of circle punches. But once they get over a certain size, they are both expensive to buy and bulky to store, so in the long run the Nestabilities work out as good value.

Thanks!
 

Thanks so much for all the help in input. This clears things up a lot for me!

Tracy