Technique Tip Video How to Fussy Cut Paper and Cardstock Like a Pro

I’m sure you’ve heard the term fussy cutting. So what exactly is it?

Well, fussy cutting is a popular card making and scrapbooking technique that involves cutting around a stamped image or greeting, or cutting elements out of patterned paper.

Although the concept of fussy cutting is pretty simple, it can actually be pretty tricky to get the perfect fussy cut edges.

So why would you want to fussy cut? To put it simply, fussy cut images are a beautiful way to incorporate dimensions into your cards.

This technique also allows you to stretch your supplies.

So what do you need in order to fussy cut?

The most important tool you need is a pair of fine tip scissors with a short blade and comfortable handles. My go-to scissors are Stampin’ Up!’s paper snips.

Depending on how fine the image is, you may find it helpful to have either a regular X-Acto knife or a small swivel blade knife.

If you are going to use either of these, then you’ll also need a self-healing cutting mat. And although any size self-healing mat will work, I find it convenient to have a small one.  

Once I show you what tools I use and why, I’ll then dive into all the tips and tricks you need to know for those perfect fussy cut edges.

Technique Tip Video| How To Fussy Cut Paper and Cardstock Like a Pro

If you can’t see the video below, you can watch it directly on YouTube HERE.

Here is an example of some cards I created that incorporated a lot of fussy cutting. And it was fussy cutting for the purpose of stretching my supplies.

You see, I had bought Stampin’ Up!’s new Flowers for Every Season Designer series paper. Which is gorgeous. But, some of the patterns are way too bold and bright for me. By cutting these papers apart, I was able to incorporate elements of the paper into my designs.

There you have it friends! I hope you enjoyed this post. And that the tips and techniques I shared will make fussy cutting a whole lot easier for you!