tips for the perfect cut

Attaching a copy of the templates to the paper with removable tape will ensure the neatest finish. For clean cuts, it is important that the scalpel blade is sharp, and the workspace should be large enough to accommodate movement. The scalpel is held like a pen, keeping the blade at a 45 degree angle, and cuts made towards the body, holding the paper with the free hand. This is safer and gives more control. Cutting against the metal ruler will create straight lines, and it is easier to cut away from corners rather than into them. It is best to start with the more detailed parts of the design, working up to the bigger shapes. Any small mistakes made during cutting can be rectified with sticky tape applied to the back of the paper. Running the bone folder along the paper with an even pressure will create a sharp crease. The paper can then be carefully folded along the crease, pinching it down the centre with the fingers and flattening along the edges. Paper which is up to 150gsm is suitable for use as anything higher would be considered card.

3. Step 3: Cut out the grey paper using the template on the previous page, following the light grey outlines. Then cut out the pink paper using the template to the right. Note that some of the cuts are just cut lines rather than fully cut-out shapes.

4. Step 4: Each of the half-cut leaves on the grey paper are gently folded back on themselves, then flattened using the bone folder.