Best Paper Cutters for Craft Designs
Looking for a paper cutter that makes designs for crafts?
When it comes to crafting, the right tools can make all the difference, and a good paper cutter is no exception. Whether you’re creating intricate designs for scrapbooking, DIY cards, or other creative projects, a quality paper cutter can help you achieve precision and consistency. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one? In this article, we’ll explore the top paper cutters that make designs for crafts and help you decide which tool is right for your crafting needs.
Types of Paper Cutters That Make Designs
Before we dive into the best models, let’s first look at the different types of paper cutters that can create designs for crafts.
1. Decorative Edge Scissors vs. Paper Cutters
While scissors with decorative edges are handy for adding a unique touch to your projects, paper cutters designed specifically for crafts can offer more precision and efficiency. These tools allow you to create clean, consistent cuts with intricate patterns or borders that are hard to achieve with regular scissors.
2. Craft Punches
Craft punches are small tools that allow you to punch specific shapes into your paper. Whether it’s a star, heart, flower, or custom shape, craft punches are a quick way to add a decorative touch. They’re great for repeating shapes across large areas, and they come in various sizes and designs.
3. Guillotine & Rotary Cutters with Decorative Blades
Guillotine and rotary cutters are perfect for both straight and patterned cuts. Guillotine cutters use a sharp blade to slice through the paper with ease, while rotary cutters use a rotating blade to achieve smooth, straight cuts. Many models come with interchangeable decorative blades, allowing you to make unique edges and patterns with ease.
4. Die-Cutting Machines (Manual & Digital)
For more advanced paper crafting, die-cutting machines are the go-to tools. These machines can create detailed, intricate designs, from shapes to text, on various materials. Manual die-cutting machines require you to crank the handle, while digital (electronic) die-cutters, like the Cricut, use software to send cutting instructions to the machine.
How to Choose the Right Paper Cutter for Craft Designs
When choosing a paper cutter, there are several factors to consider to make sure you get the best tool for your specific needs.
Material Compatibility
Make sure the cutter is compatible with the types of paper and materials you plan to use. Some paper cutters are great for lightweight paper, while others can handle heavier cardstock or even thin fabric and vinyl.
Manual vs. Digital
Manual cutters are more affordable and easy to use, but digital machines like the Cricut offer more precision and customization. Decide whether you want a machine that requires some hand-cranking or a high-tech device that can cut detailed designs automatically.
Portability and Storage
If you have a limited workspace, consider the size and portability of your cutter. Manual tools tend to be more compact, while digital machines may take up more room but offer more functionality.
Budget-Friendly vs. High-End Options
Paper cutters come in all price ranges. If you’re just starting out with basic crafts, a budget-friendly option may suit your needs. However, if you’re looking for professional-grade results, investing in a high-end die-cutting machine might be the best choice.
Top Paper Cutters for Craft Designs
Now that we’ve discussed the types of cutters and things to consider when shopping, let’s dive into the best paper cutters for craft designs on the market.
1. Cricut Explore Air 2 (Best Digital Cutter)
Pros:
- Offers thousands of design options through Cricut Design Space.
- Cuts a wide range of materials, including paper, vinyl, fabric, and more.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless operation.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Requires a computer or tablet for operation.
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is one of the top choices for digital die-cutting. It’s ideal for crafters who want to cut intricate designs, fonts, and shapes with minimal effort. With its easy-to-use software and ability to cut over 100 materials, it’s a versatile tool for any crafter.
2. Fiskars SureCut Deluxe Craft Paper Trimmer (Best for Straight Cuts)
Pros:
- Precision-cutting with SureCut wire.
- Cuts up to 12 inches of paper.
- Affordable.
Cons:
- Limited to straight cuts only.
- Doesn’t work well with thicker materials like cardstock.
If you’re looking for a straightforward, no-frills paper cutter for crafting, the Fiskars SureCut is a reliable choice. It features a SureCut wire that shows exactly where the cut will be made, ensuring precision every time.
3. Sizzix Big Shot (Best for Die-Cutting)
Pros:
- Manual die-cutting machine that works with a wide variety of materials.
- Can create detailed designs with various dies and embossing folders.
- Affordable compared to digital machines.
Cons:
- Requires manual cranking.
- Doesn’t have the precision of digital machines for complex designs.
The Sizzix Big Shot is a popular choice for crafters who want to create detailed die-cut shapes and designs. With its easy-to-use crank mechanism, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike.
4. Martha Stewart Crafts Scoring Board and Trimmer (Best for Both Scoring and Cutting)
Pros:
- Dual functionality: cuts and scores paper.
- Compact and easy to store.
- Affordable.
Cons:
- Limited cutting width.
- Doesn’t offer decorative edges or intricate designs.
For crafters who need both a cutter and a scoring tool, the Martha Stewart Crafts Scoring Board and Trimmer is an excellent option. Whether you’re making cards, boxes, or other detailed crafts, this tool will give you clean cuts and precise folds every time.
Tips for Using Paper Cutters in Crafting
- Choose the Right Blade: Always use the correct blade for your material to ensure a clean cut.
- Practice with Scrap Paper: Before cutting your final project, practice on scrap paper to ensure everything is aligned properly.
- Keep Blades Sharp: Dull blades can cause tearing and uneven edges. Keep them sharp to maintain precision.
- Store Properly: Keep your cutters in a safe, dry place to avoid damaging the blades and other components.
Conclusion
The best paper cutter for craft designs depends on your personal needs and crafting style. Whether you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly model for basic cuts or a high-end machine for intricate designs, there’s a paper cutter out there that’s perfect for you. By considering factors like material compatibility, budget, and the type of cuts you want to make, you’ll be able to find the right tool to elevate your crafting projects.

Tanya, both a nurturing stay-at-home mom and a skilled crafter, is the creative force behind our blog. As the co-founder of Romney Ridge Farms & Crafts, she’s the editor and curator. She also runs the Romney Ridge Farms & Crafts social media accounts where we post new patterns for you to enjoy.