Cutting is a fundamental skill for any collage maker. Whether you're working with paper, fabric, or other materials, having the right tools and techniques can make all the difference in creating clean, precise cuts. In this guide, we'll cover the essential cutting tools and methods you'll want to have in your collage-making arsenal.

Cutter knife

First up is the cutter knife. Also known as a craft knife or X-Acto knife, this small but mighty tool allows for intricate, controlled cuts. Its sharp blade can slice through all kinds of materials with ease. Just be sure to use it carefully and keep those fingers out of the way!

Scissors

Scissors are a classic cutting tool that no collage artist should be without. Whether you choose sharp, precision scissors or all-purpose craft scissors, they allow you to make smooth, controlled cuts, especially on thinner materials.

Guillotine

For larger, straight cuts, a guillotine paper cutter is an invaluable asset. Also called a paper trimmer, this tool uses a hinged, angled blade to make perfect, uniform cuts across your materials. Great for trimming down paper or cardstock to size.

Slider

Sliders are another versatile cutting option. These handheld tools have a sliding blade that glides along a straight edge, letting you make long, clean cuts. Many sliders also have built-in measuring guides to help you cut to exact dimensions.

Electronic cutting machine

If you're looking to take your cutting to the next level, electronic cutting machines like the Cricut or Silhouette are worth considering. These digital tools can precisely cut intricate shapes and designs from a variety of materials, based on files you create on your computer.

Circle cutter

Circle cutters are a handy tool for creating perfect circular shapes and forms in your collage work. These tools have a sharp, rotating blade that allows you to cut precise circles of varying sizes. Whether you need uniform circles or creative, freeform shapes, a circle cutter gives you the ability to easily incorporate circular elements into your collages.