I am so glad I found this video. I learned so much. I fell in love with gluebooking, art journaling, junk journaling, making altered books, and all things collage. I have been collecting and fussy cutting for about six months now, and have acquired quite a collection of images and papers and amazing bits and bobs. I am going to binge watch every video of yours because I think I’m falling in love with you. 😅❤ I can’t wait to see what else there is to learn from you. Thank you in advance.🥰
Why thank you, Alisha. This is truly nice to hear. And welcome! One of the reasons that I make videos about the "obvious" is because it rarely is. Much of what I learned I learned by doing stuff wrong and it makes me happy to pass it forward. Keep me posted on what you're making. Kelly
Thank you, Anne. It is true that videos take wayyyy longer than you think, two or three days of planning then hours of filming, editing, and stuff. Thank you for noticing and appreciating. Happy making! Kelly
Pu your forefinger in the hole of the Fiskers finger blade. The tip of your finger applies downward pressure and the rounded handle distributes the pressure to the top of your hands, making it easier on your finger.
Hi there, thanks for suggesting this. They don't quite work for me and make my chubby fingers hurt but I have friends who swear by them or use embroidery scissors. Kelly
Hi Kelly, since this video is 2 years old, I was wondering if you have now heard of the brand Beaditive? They have High Precision Detail Scissors. Many comments speak of it sharpness and detail cutting ease. Thanks.
I cannot live without my Tim Holtz scissors, especially the snips, which are smaller than what you are illustrating. I used to hate fussy cutting until I got the TH snips and the ones you show.
Well, you've convinced me. I will have a look for those small ones, the snips. I am always hoping to up my cutting game. Thanks for comparing notes! Kelly
Hi Kelly... I loved watching your video as I am totally hooked on cutting out images.. Some I leave a small edge around but mostly I fussy cut up close.. i too cut into the image and cut out the negative space and then put on a small piece of tape on the back to tack it together when I'm done. I never thought of using a hole punch to make a hole in a space I want to cut out.. I usually gouge my hand with the point of my scissors to make the hole in it... so Thank You! Something that I have been doing which I was so excited to be able to share with you is.. that when there are a lot of stems and thin strips to cut around I automatically put a strip of masking tape on the back or even scotch tape will work.. over the area to be cut out... then you can cut right up close without having to leave a white edge around and it never tears.. it's sturdy and strong and is so amazing.. no more torn images!.. I'll keep watching your upcoming videos..
Hi Darlene. That is a great idea about backing the delicate parts with masking tape and I am definitely going to be using that. It is amazing to me how many things seem obvious when someone points them out, especially if we are teaching ourselves, which is kind of the reason I made this - a lot of stuff about cutting isn't obvious at all if you are doing it on your own. Thanks for comparing notes and touching base! Kelly
Hi Margaret. It can be. I used to do it in front of Turner Classic Movies for hours but we don't have it here (may be the only serious drawback to UK life) and I read more than watch so that's out. Instead I do try to do it mindfully and pay attention. Hope your move is moving and not driving you nuts!
Great video with some excellent tips. I think the difference between those who use scissors and those who use knives is down to education. In the UK we have to be able to handle a pair of scissors by the time we are 2 yrs old..it is part of the development checks. My gran used to use a large pair of paper shears for cutting even the tiniest images, she said it was because the blades were long and you didn't get achy hands as fast...with a couple of cuts she had a fancy flower cut out, it used to make my mind boggle when I was little :)
Kelly I loved this! Thank you. For me, my favourite scissors for fussy cutting are Fiskars Easy Action. I have arthritis in my cutting hand from years of scissor work when I was a hairstylist. The Fiskars Easy Action have a spring in them, so they reopen on their own and do not make my hands ache from repetitive use. They also have tiny, pointed blades for getting into delicate designs. I love them! As ever, thanks for such informative episodes. I always look forward to Fridays for you!
Oooh, thanks for this, Catherine. I actually meant to say in the video that Fiskars is my runner-up go-to, especially as you can find them easily but I did not know about this Easy Action style and will look for them. Hair stylist, eh? I cut my own hair throughout 20 months of lockdown because I figured if I could cut paper for a living I could darn well cut my hair. As you can predict, the results were mixed.😁
@@BookandPaperArts Cutting one's own hair is very difficult, even for an experienced stylist. I only have 1 friend who can do a complete, good haircut on herself. The rest of us can trim our bangs, lighten up our layers and reframe our face. But how we look walking away is another story. Not a good look. 🤣
Well hello! Since you asked Kelly, I do use a small TIm Holtz serrated scissor, but my fav is a small Fiskers squeeze handle made for ease of use, I believe, for people with arthritis. I don’t have that issue…at least not yet. Also use a scissor that I’ve had for ages with a precise scalpel cutting tip. Wish I knew the brand but alas. I do have & carry with me when I’m on the go (& someone else is driving) a large zip pouch full of images that need fussy cutting. In it I carry a hard plastic case with my scissors as well as a thick plastic pouch for finished cuttings to keep them flat & safe. When I’m in the studio, I use an X-Acto blade on a self-healing mat. I tried using the X-Acto on glass, as per a suggestion I had heard, but that just dulls the blade way too quickly for my taste. Leaving a border around your fussy cut is called the kiss method. I do that at times if that’s the look I’m after, but generally I’m of the ‘leave-no-white-around’ camp. Guess that’s why I enjoy the art you create, I like the ‘real’ of it. Thanks for your always enjoyable vids.
Hey, Valerie, I have some of the squeeze scissors but they were in the bottom of the battery drawer (you know the one) and kind of sticky. Maybe I should get a new pair and see that they're like. I also carry pieces around with me all the time, like an old-timey wife with her mending. That way if I am on the phone or watching something, I can get a few pieces cut out and in the shoebox. Thanks loads for telling me it is called the kiss method. That will make me sound smarter next time I do this. 😎😉 Love learning new things. Hope you are having a creative weekend! Kelly
Cutter bee, I gave 5 pairs been using them 14 years still sharp as ever. Also the tip of cutting in to remove the inner spaces was new to me and much easier to do than what I have been doing. TY.
It is my real pleasure, Theresa. Cutting through branches and bird's legs and people legs still makes me nervous but they always get put back together better than new so - let us boldly cut!
I use a combo of Cutter Bee and Fiskars finger knife. I use the Fiskars when I want to remove white paper in areas of the image where I can’t get into with my scissors. Good video.
Thanks bunches. I also like Fiskars. They are very reliable, easy to find, and come in so many sizes. I need to improve my grip on the little finger-held scalpel, though. I hope you are having a creative weekend!
The finger blade is used differently than you did in the video. Place your index finger through the hole from the bottom, laying the finger along the top of the blade. Cut by drawing along your cutting line with your index finger.
Kelly, you are my new 'girl crush.' I love your style and the great information. How on earth did you tear the edges of this board book? I have low vision so don't see clearly; I could be wrong about them being torn. It's the book shown at 9:10. Thanks - though I"m spending way too much time watching and not enough time doing! Diane
Dear Diane, thank you for this. You have really made my weekend! Now, the edges of the board book are not torn. I do sometimes trim them so they are asymmetrical and stuff but that is done with a utility knife. If it appears torn it is because 1. I have torn paper on the inside hanging out over the edge for a distressed look and/or 2. The cover is done with acrylic paint in "pulled" work that makes an irregular pattern. Does that make sense? Let me know and thanks again for touching base. Kelly
My favorite scissors for more intricate cutting is an old little finger nail scissors that has curved blades. It works well with the curved blades facing toward the item or away from it. Another idea is to cut closely around the item first to get rid of the bulk but I guess that's just common sense. Thank you Kelly. Just discovered this helpful video.
Thank you, Diane. I've tried those scissors and they just don't work for me (I have big old fingers😉) although I have art friends who also swear by them. Thanks for touching base. It is good to compare notes and see who is using what and how. 🦋🦋Kelly
I’m watching this Aug. 13, 2023. Great video. I have several scissors for different jobs. My favorite pair for fussy cutting are the Tim Holtz titanium snips. (I think they’re a bit smaller than the pair in your video.) I like the serrated edges because I think the resultant paper edges blend into a collage better. I do have a very small pair of cuticle scissors that I use for the tiniest cuts (but not very often).
Hi there and thanks for comparing notes. It is on my list of things to do to try other Tim Holtz scissors. I know what you mean about the serrated edge blending - that is what I like about rough-tearing paper, too - but I just don't get that clean line I crave with fine botanicals. Maybe I need a different pair. Someone said that the serrated blade is intended for tape and sticky items and that makes sense. But I do love my Cutter Bees. 🐝🐝🐞🐞Kelly
So glad to have found your channel. And secretly happy to notice that you appear to spend time in 🇬🇧. I watch and learn from a lot of TH-camrs, and many are from the 🇺🇸. That’s fine until it comes to that glue or paper or gadget that suddenly becomes an absolute must-have to add to a serious collection that doesn’t require anything else, really. Walmart? The Dollar Store? Michaels? Yes, I know we have more or less similar stores in 🇬🇧. But… the variety apparently available in the 🇺🇸 seems huge. Love what you do with such a down to earth approach and sense if humour. Thanks 🙏 for sharing.
Hi there, Micki. Well, sweetie, I live in Swansea! Have been here for 17 years and a UK citizen for 11. Can't manage the Welsh accent, though, so stick with my old one. I know what you mean. I always want to name check Wilco, the Range, or PoundLand but rarely do as so many of the nice people tuning in are from the states (they make up 85% of my sales). And goodness knows I miss Michaels. 😺 I am so glad you touched base. We can compare notes. Where do you live? Kelly
@@BookandPaperArts Hi there Kelly (I think, I hope?.). Thanks for getting back to me. I have lived in London since 1979, having originally lived in the ‘colonies’ I.e. born in Zimbabwe and lived in South Africa. Your video reminded me of a paper-based three day course I attended at the V & A museum years ago. Never looked backed after that course. Paper obsessive for life. The V&A has a wonderful collection of paper sculpted creations and altered/handmade books which I believe one can request to see as they are not always on display. Gobsmacking stuff and fussy cutting and construction of the highest order. We were not allowed to touch except while wearing white gloves and the curator kept her beady eye firmly on the way we handled the books. And rightly so. Su Blackwell led one of the full day workshops. Her altered books are quite magical. Can be found on Google, of course. Stephen Fowler’s day led me to cutting my own rubber stamps for months after the course. I still use them and valiantly fend off the deep seated desire to cut even more. His book on Rubber Stamping is one of my prized books. Embarrassing to say that I don’t remember the name of the third artist who also did 3d work and started us off on a Matisse like approach. All done largely with scalpel. So I deeply appreciate your work and the way your share your ideas.
@@mickigarvey7608 Golly, what terrific experiences you have had. I am quite jealous. Yes, I did try to get the librarians at the V&A to let me see the altered books but they said I had to request a specific book, one at a time, so blergh, gave up. Did you know Bristol uni has a book arts programme? Maybe in the next lifetime.
@@mickigarvey7608 Also, I tripped into book arts. Used to a journalist covering the arts beat. One day I was sent to interview an illustrated journal teacher who had written several books about the subject and I KNEW as soon as I saw what she did that I wanted that to be my job. Took a few years but now it is! Thank you for all the kind words. Kelly
So helpful to actually see how you fussy cut. I definitely picked up a few tips with regard to cutting those awkward white bits between the leaves. I use embroidery scissors but have sausage fingers so I’m going to get some scissors that are more comfortable to use.
Hi Kelly, this was the most useful video thank you. You answered all of the questions I've always wondered about. I'll be rewatching this one, great tips.
Why thank you, Nicola. I sometimes hesitate to make videos that aren't "sexy" with lots of pretty images but I found that there is also a desire for videos that show the Behind The Scenes stuff that seems obvious because I've done it for so long but is far from obvious when you're getting started. That's why I enjoy doing these, hoping that I shorten the learning curve for someone else. Hope you are making something nice this weekend! Kelly
Thank you for the hints and tips on cutting I often use my scissors with a zig edge as they create a lovely finish and they help me to cut in a straight line too if cutting put smaller things but for larger pieces I use my actual cutter with a ruler as a part of the tool.
I have one of the cutter boards but sometimes the paper I am using is bigger and won't fit. And I can never get those jaggly scissors to work , maybe mine are too cheap. We finally have some sun today. And I'm off to Cardiff tomorrow for an afternoon in the Big City!
@@BookandPaperArts nice one enjoy your day in the big city. Yes I think it she's depend on the quality of the zig zag stickers as mine are always good to be fair but can tell they are strong and sturdy
Lots of good information! I have all three sizes of the Tim Holtz sissors....but.....Cutter Bees are my favorite! I really like your videos. Really nice pace.
Hi Sherry and thank you! And thanks for the vote of confidence on the scissors. I sometimes fear the wrath of daring to diss the Tim Holtz scissors. Although I also wonder if I bought the wrong kind for find fine paper work. Are there smaller ones? How do you find them?
I use a regular size scissors; poke a hole in enclosed spaces to cut them out and use embroidery scissors for really small spots. Your tips are good, especially leaving fragile places uncut until they are used. Thanks.
Great tips and ideas!! I actually learned fussy cutting from my grand-daughter who was 7 at the time!! LOL!! She had a great art teacher and today at 13 years old, she is a fussy cutter champ and an excellent budding artist. Thanks for the helpful tips!
You are very welcome! Sadly, the newsletter is no more but if you care to follow me on TH-cam I am going to try a video version of the newsletter in the new year. 🌷🌷🌼🌼🎨🎨Kelly
I've learned quite a bit here, thank you! Speaking of cutting out images, would it be wise to cut a large piece into two or three parts & then glue them separately but matched up on the substrate? I'm thinking that might reduce the wrinkling issue? Or would they pull apart as they dry? Kelly, have you done this? Please help, I don't want to ruin my one-of-a-kind pieces that I've painted. I want to glue my paintings onto bigger and thicker paper, & then add collage on top, hopefully that makes sense?
Hi there, Yope. I have cut pieces and glued them so they look reassembled and so far they have NOT separated. And if they did I might try shading in on the seams with a paint in the identical colour for camoflauge. It's hard to say about the wrinkling. Is it possible to make a copy of your painting and of the collage image and practice and see what happens? Kelly
Cutter Bee for me too! I have one pair for paper, one for fabric. I still use my original pair often after about 12 years. They are a little dull, but not enough to bother me. Actually the handles are degrading more than the blade. Love Cutter Bee too!
Hi Kathy, isn't it amazing that they aren't better known? Maybe you can have them sharpened, although that might cost more than a new pair, but I also hate to throw things away. Fiskars are also decent but if I have a choice it is Cutter Bee.
Hi Lynn, it seems to be a little company and they don't do much else, or I would be chasing them for a gig. But they are worth every cent, and aren't that pricey.
I have an antique deckle edge guillotine, passed on by my father. Unfortunately it is very small, so I can only use A5 paper, or fold it in half. I don’t use it very often, but I can’t bear to part to part with it.
Wow, this I need to see. I know what you mean about smaller paper but it could still be super-effective for smaller pieces or tip ins that are mismatched sizes. What a precious artifcat.
I'm a scissors girl myself! I have tried the Fiskars 5-inch microtip embroidery scissors, plus all manner of other scissors (may have to get me some Cutter Bee just to see 😉--lol can we ever have too many scissors🤣) My favorite so far for fussy cutting is a cheap pair of Westcott bent-handles with 8-inch stainless-steel blades. They feel heavy like shears but the control is superb. I feed the page into them just the way you do, and it's one of the most satisfying little projects I've come across.
I generally do not leave the white edge on a fussy cut, but sometimes with stickers or die cuts, I trim it closer and ink the edges to soften the bright white area. Thanks for your tips!
Hi Rosanna, I agree that blending inky edges covers a world of imperfections and challenging parts. The white border is more of a look as you say, to mimic a sticker and not my style but it sometimes looks great in other people's junk journals and whatnot. Hope you are having a creative weekend!
The red handled scissors are non-stick (like Teflon) and are meant to cut sticky things like tape. Which is why the blade feels different. My usual go to scissor is the Cutter Bee. Love them.
Hi Margaret, thank you so much for letting me know. I thought it was just me, instead I just bought the wrong ones. But it was an impulse and yeah, I am a Cutter Bee gal all the way. They are so great for the money!
I've often wondered about Cutter Bee scissors as I've seen others use them. I've had great luck with We R Memory Keepers precision scissors. My dog recently chewed them up and I tried a multi pack of an off brand. I know better than to do that. But if one invests any money in their art, I suggest purchasing quality cutting products and quality adhesives.
I am definitely a member of the mistake club. I learned the hard way. 😝. It depends on what the image is whether or not I cut right up to a image or leave a border. Mostly I leave a little border. I love my scissors but don’t know brand or where I bought them. Thanks for all the tips today. The one that I will use is where you cut though image. I never thought of doing that. 😳💐
Hi Jodi. I swear when I look back at what I didn't know and the courage of my ignorance. It is a blessing. Cutting through an image is so against what we think we should be right and it took me ages to try because I thought it was Against The Rules. Then I realised I could make new rules and I never looked back! Some of fiddly pieces are cut through in several places and just have to glued back very, very carefully at the seams but it works a treat. Hope you are having a creative weekend! Kelly
I recently discovered that my mother's fabric shears are my favorite for fussy cutting. I'm sure she is rolling over in her grave because I'm using her fabric shears to cut paper!!! I loved your tip about cutting into the image to remove white space. I usually leave it or cut with an xacto knife (which I hate). I'll be using your method next time.
Lois, it took me ages to get up the nerve to operate into an image. I thought it was against the rules but dang, it is such an elegant, direct solution whereas, like you, I had been trying to bend some blades of one kind or another into this tiny space to get it big enough to excise then I thought, no one's looking, I'll just straight through and see what happens. Never looked back! I used to be a hatmaker and had some mighty fancy shears that cost a fortune. I think my ex-husband (and present friend) still has them but I could see how they would cut like a son of a gun.
Lois the fabric shears comment is so accurate! I have my mum’s scissors too but can not bring myself to use them to cut paper or she too would be spinning in her grave. Must be after all those years of « don’t touch my scissors » but could she sew!!!
Awesome tips for cutting! I’m a scissor girl too! Love my cutter bee scissors! Can’t remember if you mentioned to move the paper as you cut and not so much the scissors. This was something I learned a while back that made a huge difference for me. Thanks for sharing!
I did go over that, Susan, because you are so right. For ages I used to chop my scissors at a piece. I sometimes find those old pieces at the bottom of a box of images and it makes me smile while I recut them smoothly. Glad I didn't know that I didn't know or I never would have begun. (Does that make sense?) Kelly
Kelly, thank you for the practical cutting tips. They really do make a difference. Also appreciated some guides about which images will be more challenging to cut out successfully. I love to tear and do it a lot, but sometimes a fussy cut is the way to go.
Hi Helene, you are quite right about tearing. Nothing like it for adding texture and interest. But there is also the trompe l'oiel look from a perfectly cut image. Off to edit today's video!
Thanks bunches, Pam. I get my books mainly at used book stores and French flea markets. (I also sell them.😺) Here are a couple of videos that might give more information: th-cam.com/video/MC7gd40F30s/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/6kjc0p-ufCQ/w-d-xo.html Hope this helps! Kelly
Thanks for this Kelly. Love the hydrangeas tip. Also, like the cherries you demonstrated, I’m sometimes unsure if leaving a border around a “busy” image looks ok or not when adding to a layout.
This is very helpful. Kelly! I had never thought of using spare time to cut out images that I might use later - great idea. I do really like the Cutter Bee scissors - I bought some a while back after watching one of your other videos. To me, it is a bonus that they are bold colors - making them easier to spot on my often very messy worktable 😁 Finally, I had never heard of a deckle edge ruler - might have to purchase one of those!
Yayayay! Funny that Cutter Bee isn't well known, they just cut so well with no fuss. Fiskars is my runner-up choice. Off to paint some imperfect watercolour flowers!
I look forward to your videos on Fridays. I am glad you made it last week but safe. Gracious! I would rather miss a video than having to missed a months worth because you got hurt. That being said..... Have you ever found your smudger? I can't wait to see it. It is almost like a treasure hunt now.
Why thank you. That really does make me happy. We have had blowy weather since then, too. Partly the way Wales is and partly crazy storm season! But we are staying safe and reasonably dry. I have an oil cloth coat with a huge hood and it is the best piece of gear I could have here. Ah, my smudging tool. What you wrote made me laugh - I have these ginormous boxes of mix-and-match art supplies and it is somewhere in there. I actually prefer the messy smudge but I am also doing some pre-Spring studio cleaning and if it turns up, I will put it in video just for you!😉😺💕
Kelly I’m loving binge watching your videos! I think with the finger knife you put your finger in the hole from underneath and then along the shaft to control it. Just curious where are you located?
Hi Linda, thanks for the heads up on the finger scalpel. I have been thoroughly informed that I was holding the darn thing the wrong way and oops. I live in Wales. I've been here over 20 years and have been a UK citizen for over 13. I keep intending to make an introduction video but the time gets away from me. Maybe soon.
Hi Edie. Some of these are from a book of handpainted botanicals from 1842. Here is a link to printable versions on Etsy (if you like stuff like that): www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1197770851/44-vintage-flower-printable-botanical?click_key=b891cd208eb0e8f29fadd59c5148a46925261b95%3A1197770851&click_sum=0265fad0&ref=shop_home_active_11&sts=1 Now, other places I find gorgeous flowers are way more accessible - I look for coffee table books in gardening or nature sections of thrift stores and used book stores. They are really cheap and give a lot of images. Gardening magazines are also fun with big flowers and they can also be found in thrift stores, etc. Look for old calendars, greeting cards, and so on. If you teach yourself to keep your eyes open, you will start to see them all over the place! Happy hunting and keep me posted. Kelly
If you or any of your followers have any advice for one-handed collage techniques, I would be grateful for any advice/tips. I have lost use of one hand from a stroke. Thank you.
@@rosejames1436 Thank you, Rose. I blundered with this one and really do appreciate the heads up. Ah, the dangers of being self-taught! I am going to try this again. All the best! 🌷🌼🌻Kelly
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I am so glad I found this video. I learned so much. I fell in love with gluebooking, art journaling, junk journaling, making altered books, and all things collage. I have been collecting and fussy cutting for about six months now, and have acquired quite a collection of images and papers and amazing bits and bobs. I am going to binge watch every video of yours because I think I’m falling in love with you. 😅❤ I can’t wait to see what else there is to learn from you. Thank you in advance.🥰
Why thank you, Alisha. This is truly nice to hear. And welcome! One of the reasons that I make videos about the "obvious" is because it rarely is. Much of what I learned I learned by doing stuff wrong and it makes me happy to pass it forward. Keep me posted on what you're making. Kelly
Since my childhood I'm using nail scissors. They work perfectly. Dear Kelly thanks so much for profound teaching , I'm deeply impressed 😂😂😂 Barbara
Thank you, Kelly. I appreciate how much time you spent in preparing this video.
Thank you, Anne. It is true that videos take wayyyy longer than you think, two or three days of planning then hours of filming, editing, and stuff. Thank you for noticing and appreciating. Happy making! Kelly
Pu your forefinger in the hole of the Fiskers finger blade. The tip of your finger applies downward pressure and the rounded handle distributes the pressure to the top of your hands, making it easier on your finger.
Thank you, Joan. I will try as you suggest and see if I get better results!
I like using the cheap little japanese thread snips. They allow me to get into tight spaces easily. They are very sharp and cost only a dollar or two.
Hi there, thanks for suggesting this. They don't quite work for me and make my chubby fingers hurt but I have friends who swear by them or use embroidery scissors. Kelly
I have never thought about cutting into the image to cut out those interior white pieces. Brilliant ! Thank you for this tutorial. Very helpful👍
Hi Vivian. Yeah, the first time I did it I held my breath but then never looked back. Thanks for touching base! Kelly
Hi Kelly, since this video is 2 years old, I was wondering if you have now heard of the brand Beaditive? They have High Precision Detail Scissors. Many comments speak of it sharpness and detail cutting ease. Thanks.
I do not know that make of scissors but am about to go check it out now as I (still) do tons of fussy cutting. Thanks for comparing notes!Kelly
I cannot live without my Tim Holtz scissors, especially the snips, which are smaller than what you are illustrating. I used to hate fussy cutting until I got the TH snips and the ones you show.
Well, you've convinced me. I will have a look for those small ones, the snips. I am always hoping to up my cutting game. Thanks for comparing notes! Kelly
Great tips. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Edie. It is my very real pleasure. And thank you for touching base! 🌷🌷🌻🌻🌼🌼Kelly
Hi Kelly... I loved watching your video as I am totally hooked on cutting out images.. Some I leave a small edge around but mostly I fussy cut up close.. i too cut into the image and cut out the negative space and then put on a small piece of tape on the back to tack it together when I'm done. I never thought of using a hole punch to make a hole in a space I want to cut out.. I usually gouge my hand with the point of my scissors to make the hole in it... so Thank You! Something that I have been doing which I was so excited to be able to share with you is.. that when there are a lot of stems and thin strips to cut around I automatically put a strip of masking tape on the back or even scotch tape will work.. over the area to be cut out... then you can cut right up close without having to leave a white edge around and it never tears.. it's sturdy and strong and is so amazing.. no more torn images!.. I'll keep watching your upcoming videos..
Hi Darlene. That is a great idea about backing the delicate parts with masking tape and I am definitely going to be using that. It is amazing to me how many things seem obvious when someone points them out, especially if we are teaching ourselves, which is kind of the reason I made this - a lot of stuff about cutting isn't obvious at all if you are doing it on your own. Thanks for comparing notes and touching base! Kelly
Thank you. Cutting images is so relaxing to me!!
Hi Margaret. It can be. I used to do it in front of Turner Classic Movies for hours but we don't have it here (may be the only serious drawback to UK life) and I read more than watch so that's out. Instead I do try to do it mindfully and pay attention. Hope your move is moving and not driving you nuts!
Great video with some excellent tips. I think the difference between those who use scissors and those who use knives is down to education. In the UK we have to be able to handle a pair of scissors by the time we are 2 yrs old..it is part of the development checks. My gran used to use a large pair of paper shears for cutting even the tiniest images, she said it was because the blades were long and you didn't get achy hands as fast...with a couple of cuts she had a fancy flower cut out, it used to make my mind boggle when I was little :)
Kelly I loved this! Thank you. For me, my favourite scissors for fussy cutting are Fiskars Easy Action. I have arthritis in my cutting hand from years of scissor work when I was a hairstylist. The Fiskars Easy Action have a spring in them, so they reopen on their own and do not make my hands ache from repetitive use. They also have tiny, pointed blades for getting into delicate designs. I love them! As ever, thanks for such informative episodes. I always look forward to Fridays for you!
Oooh, thanks for this, Catherine. I actually meant to say in the video that Fiskars is my runner-up go-to, especially as you can find them easily but I did not know about this Easy Action style and will look for them. Hair stylist, eh? I cut my own hair throughout 20 months of lockdown because I figured if I could cut paper for a living I could darn well cut my hair. As you can predict, the results were mixed.😁
@@BookandPaperArts Cutting one's own hair is very difficult, even for an experienced stylist. I only have 1 friend who can do a complete, good haircut on herself. The rest of us can trim our bangs, lighten up our layers and reframe our face. But how we look walking away is another story. Not a good look. 🤣
Great video, lots of fab tips xx
Why thank you, Tina. I am a longtime fan of your work so this is indeed a pleasure! 🌻🌻🎨🎨Kelly
Thank you❤ have always stayed away from fussy cutting, will now give it a go with a renewed outlook✂️
Well hello! Since you asked Kelly, I do use a small TIm Holtz serrated scissor, but my fav is a small Fiskers squeeze handle made for ease of use, I believe, for people with arthritis. I don’t have that issue…at least not yet. Also use a scissor that I’ve had for ages with a precise scalpel cutting tip. Wish I knew the brand but alas.
I do have & carry with me when I’m on the go (& someone else is driving) a large zip pouch full of images that need fussy cutting. In it I carry a hard plastic case with my scissors as well as a thick plastic pouch for finished cuttings to keep them flat & safe.
When I’m in the studio, I use an X-Acto blade on a self-healing mat. I tried using the X-Acto on glass, as per a suggestion I had heard, but that just dulls the blade way too quickly for my taste.
Leaving a border around your fussy cut is called the kiss method. I do that at times if that’s the look I’m after, but generally I’m of the ‘leave-no-white-around’ camp. Guess that’s why I enjoy the art you create, I like the ‘real’ of it. Thanks for your always enjoyable vids.
Hey, Valerie, I have some of the squeeze scissors but they were in the bottom of the battery drawer (you know the one) and kind of sticky. Maybe I should get a new pair and see that they're like. I also carry pieces around with me all the time, like an old-timey wife with her mending. That way if I am on the phone or watching something, I can get a few pieces cut out and in the shoebox. Thanks loads for telling me it is called the kiss method. That will make me sound smarter next time I do this. 😎😉 Love learning new things. Hope you are having a creative weekend! Kelly
Cutter bee, I gave 5 pairs been using them 14 years still sharp as ever. Also the tip of cutting in to remove the inner spaces was new to me and much easier to do than what I have been doing. TY.
It is my real pleasure, Theresa. Cutting through branches and bird's legs and people legs still makes me nervous but they always get put back together better than new so - let us boldly cut!
I use a combo of Cutter Bee and Fiskars finger knife. I use the Fiskars when I want to remove white paper in areas of the image where I can’t get into with my scissors. Good video.
Thanks bunches. I also like Fiskars. They are very reliable, easy to find, and come in so many sizes. I need to improve my grip on the little finger-held scalpel, though. I hope you are having a creative weekend!
The finger blade is used differently than you did in the video. Place your index finger through the hole from the bottom, laying the finger along the top of the blade. Cut by drawing along your cutting line with your index finger.
Thanks bunches, Toni. I heard from quite a few watchers that I had it cock-eyed! Oops. 😮🙄Kelly
Kelly, you are my new 'girl crush.' I love your style and the great information. How on earth did you tear the edges of this board book? I have low vision so don't see clearly; I could be wrong about them being torn. It's the book shown at 9:10. Thanks - though I"m spending way too much time watching and not enough time doing! Diane
Dear Diane, thank you for this. You have really made my weekend! Now, the edges of the board book are not torn. I do sometimes trim them so they are asymmetrical and stuff but that is done with a utility knife. If it appears torn it is because 1. I have torn paper on the inside hanging out over the edge for a distressed look and/or 2. The cover is done with acrylic paint in "pulled" work that makes an irregular pattern. Does that make sense? Let me know and thanks again for touching base. Kelly
You always give such good advice. Gotta get some of those sissors
Thanks Karen. These really are the best but FYI Fiskars make a reliable runner-up and are easy to find. Happy cutting!
My favorite scissors for more intricate cutting is an old little finger nail scissors that has curved blades. It works well with the curved blades facing toward the item or away from it. Another idea is to cut closely around the item first to get rid of the bulk but I guess that's just common sense.
Thank you Kelly. Just discovered this helpful video.
Thank you, Diane. I've tried those scissors and they just don't work for me (I have big old fingers😉) although I have art friends who also swear by them. Thanks for touching base. It is good to compare notes and see who is using what and how. 🦋🦋Kelly
Wow,the way you tear,how simple yet brilliant!
Why thank you. Be bold and lean into the tearing. Okay, maybe practice first. Try old magazines and calendars and cards.😊😊 Happy making!
I’m watching this Aug. 13, 2023. Great video. I have several scissors for different jobs. My favorite pair for fussy cutting are the Tim Holtz titanium snips. (I think they’re a bit smaller than the pair in your video.) I like the serrated edges because I think the resultant paper edges blend into a collage better. I do have a very small pair of cuticle scissors that I use for the tiniest cuts (but not very often).
Hi there and thanks for comparing notes. It is on my list of things to do to try other Tim Holtz scissors. I know what you mean about the serrated edge blending - that is what I like about rough-tearing paper, too - but I just don't get that clean line I crave with fine botanicals. Maybe I need a different pair. Someone said that the serrated blade is intended for tape and sticky items and that makes sense. But I do love my Cutter Bees. 🐝🐝🐞🐞Kelly
So glad to have found your channel. And secretly happy to notice that you appear to spend time in 🇬🇧. I watch and learn from a lot of TH-camrs, and many are from the 🇺🇸. That’s fine until it comes to that glue or paper or gadget that suddenly becomes an absolute must-have to add to a serious collection that doesn’t require anything else, really. Walmart? The Dollar Store? Michaels? Yes, I know we have more or less similar stores in 🇬🇧. But… the variety apparently available in the 🇺🇸 seems huge.
Love what you do with such a down to earth approach and sense if humour. Thanks 🙏 for sharing.
Hi there, Micki. Well, sweetie, I live in Swansea! Have been here for 17 years and a UK citizen for 11. Can't manage the Welsh accent, though, so stick with my old one. I know what you mean. I always want to name check Wilco, the Range, or PoundLand but rarely do as so many of the nice people tuning in are from the states (they make up 85% of my sales). And goodness knows I miss Michaels. 😺 I am so glad you touched base. We can compare notes. Where do you live? Kelly
@@BookandPaperArts Hi there Kelly (I think, I hope?.). Thanks for getting back to me. I have lived in London since 1979, having originally lived in the ‘colonies’ I.e. born in Zimbabwe and lived in South Africa. Your video reminded me of a paper-based three day course I attended at the V & A museum years ago. Never looked backed after that course. Paper obsessive for life.
The V&A has a wonderful collection of paper sculpted creations and altered/handmade books which I believe one can request to see as they are not always on display. Gobsmacking stuff and fussy cutting and construction of the highest order. We were not allowed to touch except while wearing white gloves and the curator kept her beady eye firmly on the way we handled the books. And rightly so.
Su Blackwell led one of the full day workshops. Her altered books are quite magical. Can be found on Google, of course.
Stephen Fowler’s day led me to cutting my own rubber stamps for months after the course. I still use them and valiantly fend off the deep seated desire to cut even more. His book on Rubber Stamping is one of my prized books.
Embarrassing to say that I don’t remember the name of the third artist who also did 3d work and started us off on a Matisse like approach. All done largely with scalpel.
So I deeply appreciate your work and the way your share your ideas.
@@mickigarvey7608 Golly, what terrific experiences you have had. I am quite jealous. Yes, I did try to get the librarians at the V&A to let me see the altered books but they said I had to request a specific book, one at a time, so blergh, gave up. Did you know Bristol uni has a book arts programme? Maybe in the next lifetime.
@@mickigarvey7608 Also, I tripped into book arts. Used to a journalist covering the arts beat. One day I was sent to interview an illustrated journal teacher who had written several books about the subject and I KNEW as soon as I saw what she did that I wanted that to be my job. Took a few years but now it is!
Thank you for all the kind words. Kelly
I agree. Love my cutter bees. Definitely my go-to scissor for fine fussy cuts.
Hi Lindy. Why aren't they better known? Although I also like a good pair of Fiskars but Cutter Bee is hands down the best. Kelly
So helpful to actually see how you fussy cut. I definitely picked up a few tips with regard to cutting those awkward white bits between the leaves. I use embroidery scissors but have sausage fingers so I’m going to get some scissors that are more comfortable to use.
Hi Yvie, yeah, embroidery scissors make my poor fingers feel cramped if I am cutting anything bigger than a peanut. 😁
Hi Kelly, this was the most useful video thank you. You answered all of the questions I've always wondered about. I'll be rewatching this one, great tips.
Why thank you, Nicola. I sometimes hesitate to make videos that aren't "sexy" with lots of pretty images but I found that there is also a desire for videos that show the Behind The Scenes stuff that seems obvious because I've done it for so long but is far from obvious when you're getting started. That's why I enjoy doing these, hoping that I shorten the learning curve for someone else. Hope you are making something nice this weekend! Kelly
Just enjoyed this video. Sense able lessons. So informative and nice. Thank you 😊
Great tips and info. Thanks! Kathleen
Hi Kathleen, it is my very real pleasure. .🌷🌷
Thank you for the hints and tips on cutting I often use my scissors with a zig edge as they create a lovely finish and they help me to cut in a straight line too if cutting put smaller things but for larger pieces I use my actual cutter with a ruler as a part of the tool.
I have one of the cutter boards but sometimes the paper I am using is bigger and won't fit. And I can never get those jaggly scissors to work , maybe mine are too cheap. We finally have some sun today. And I'm off to Cardiff tomorrow for an afternoon in the Big City!
@@BookandPaperArts nice one enjoy your day in the big city. Yes I think it she's depend on the quality of the zig zag stickers as mine are always good to be fair but can tell they are strong and sturdy
Most useful and thorough. Thank you
It is my real pleasure, Dorothea. 🌼🌼🌷🌷🌻🌻
Lots of good information! I have all three sizes of the Tim Holtz sissors....but.....Cutter Bees are my favorite! I really like your videos. Really nice pace.
Hi Sherry and thank you! And thanks for the vote of confidence on the scissors. I sometimes fear the wrath of daring to diss the Tim Holtz scissors. Although I also wonder if I bought the wrong kind for find fine paper work. Are there smaller ones? How do you find them?
I use a regular size scissors; poke a hole in enclosed spaces to cut them out and use embroidery scissors for really small spots. Your tips are good, especially leaving fragile places uncut until they are used. Thanks.
Hi Diane, thanks for weighing in. So many factors determine what tools work best for us, especially in the small spaces. Have a creative Sunday!
Great tips and ideas!! I actually learned fussy cutting from my grand-daughter who was 7 at the time!! LOL!! She had a great art teacher and today at 13 years old, she is a fussy cutter champ and an excellent budding artist. Thanks for the helpful tips!
What a great story. Sounds as if you are very blessed to have such a creative force around you. 😉🌼
Thank you for sharing these tips. Will be on the lookout for the Fiskers finger blade.
Hi Barry. Have since been informed that I am holding it wrong! But it is still a good tool and inexpensive and give it a go! Kelly
Excellent Excellent! Lots of info. Learned so much. Thank you ❤
Why thank you, Candy. Glad to get that info out there. Hope you are having a creative weekend! Kelly
Thank you for all these tips. I can’t find the spot on your site to sign up for your newsletter though.
You are very welcome! Sadly, the newsletter is no more but if you care to follow me on TH-cam I am going to try a video version of the newsletter in the new year. 🌷🌷🌼🌼🎨🎨Kelly
I've learned quite a bit here, thank you! Speaking of cutting out images, would it be wise to cut a large piece into two or three parts & then glue them separately but matched up on the substrate? I'm thinking that might reduce the wrinkling issue? Or would they pull apart as they dry? Kelly, have you done this? Please help, I don't want to ruin my one-of-a-kind pieces that I've painted. I want to glue my paintings onto bigger and thicker paper, & then add collage on top, hopefully that makes sense?
Hi there, Yope. I have cut pieces and glued them so they look reassembled and so far they have NOT separated. And if they did I might try shading in on the seams with a paint in the identical colour for camoflauge. It's hard to say about the wrinkling. Is it possible to make a copy of your painting and of the collage image and practice and see what happens? Kelly
@@BookandPaperArts Hmm, well if yours don't separate then probably I'm okay if I use the same methods with lots of slip. I'll try, thanks!
Thank you for all the great tips. I may have to get some of those scissors. I also signed up for your news letter.
Hello and welcome, Marie. I do love these scissors. Fiskars are a runner-up and they are easy to find. Hope you have a creative Sunday! Kelly
Cutter Bee for me too! I have one pair for paper, one for fabric. I still use my original pair often after about 12 years. They are a little dull, but not enough to bother me. Actually the handles are degrading more than the blade. Love Cutter Bee too!
Hi Kathy, isn't it amazing that they aren't better known? Maybe you can have them sharpened, although that might cost more than a new pair, but I also hate to throw things away. Fiskars are also decent but if I have a choice it is Cutter Bee.
Thank you for all these great tips n tricks, Kelly. I will have to check out those scissors that your swear by. I'd never heard the name prior!
Hi Lynn, it seems to be a little company and they don't do much else, or I would be chasing them for a gig. But they are worth every cent, and aren't that pricey.
PS - here in the UK I get them online but they usually have them at Michaels.
I have an antique deckle edge guillotine, passed on by my father. Unfortunately it is very small, so I can only use A5 paper, or fold it in half. I don’t use it very often, but I can’t bear to part to part with it.
Wow, this I need to see. I know what you mean about smaller paper but it could still be super-effective for smaller pieces or tip ins that are mismatched sizes. What a precious artifcat.
I'm a scissors girl myself! I have tried the Fiskars 5-inch microtip embroidery scissors, plus all manner of other scissors (may have to get me some Cutter Bee just to see 😉--lol can we ever have too many scissors🤣) My favorite so far for fussy cutting is a cheap pair of Westcott bent-handles with 8-inch stainless-steel blades. They feel heavy like shears but the control is superb. I feed the page into them just the way you do, and it's one of the most satisfying little projects I've come across.
Thanks for all of this excellent information, Kelly.
It is my real pleasure, Monica.🌻🌻🌻🌻🌼🌼
I generally do not leave the white edge on a fussy cut, but sometimes with stickers or die cuts, I trim it closer and ink the edges to soften the bright white area. Thanks for your tips!
Hi Rosanna, I agree that blending inky edges covers a world of imperfections and challenging parts. The white border is more of a look as you say, to mimic a sticker and not my style but it sometimes looks great in other people's junk journals and whatnot. Hope you are having a creative weekend!
The red handled scissors are non-stick (like Teflon) and are meant to cut sticky things like tape. Which is why the blade feels different. My usual go to scissor is the Cutter Bee. Love them.
Hi Margaret, thank you so much for letting me know. I thought it was just me, instead I just bought the wrong ones. But it was an impulse and yeah, I am a Cutter Bee gal all the way. They are so great for the money!
I've often wondered about Cutter Bee scissors as I've seen others use them. I've had great luck with We R Memory Keepers precision scissors. My dog recently chewed them up and I tried a multi pack of an off brand. I know better than to do that. But if one invests any money in their art, I suggest purchasing quality cutting products and quality adhesives.
This is great thank you Kelly
I am definitely a member of the mistake club. I learned the hard way. 😝. It depends on what the image is whether or not I cut right up to a image or leave a border. Mostly I leave a little border. I love my scissors but don’t know brand or where I bought them. Thanks for all the tips today. The one that I will use is where you cut though image. I never thought of doing that. 😳💐
Hi Jodi. I swear when I look back at what I didn't know and the courage of my ignorance. It is a blessing. Cutting through an image is so against what we think we should be right and it took me ages to try because I thought it was Against The Rules. Then I realised I could make new rules and I never looked back! Some of fiddly pieces are cut through in several places and just have to glued back very, very carefully at the seams but it works a treat. Hope you are having a creative weekend! Kelly
Thank you so much for making this video. I appreciate the helpful info.
Hi June Anne, it is my very real pleasure. I am so pleased you liked it! ✂✂
I recently discovered that my mother's fabric shears are my favorite for fussy cutting. I'm sure she is rolling over in her grave because I'm using her fabric shears to cut paper!!!
I loved your tip about cutting into the image to remove white space. I usually leave it or cut with an xacto knife (which I hate). I'll be using your method next time.
Lois, it took me ages to get up the nerve to operate into an image. I thought it was against the rules but dang, it is such an elegant, direct solution whereas, like you, I had been trying to bend some blades of one kind or another into this tiny space to get it big enough to excise then I thought, no one's looking, I'll just straight through and see what happens. Never looked back! I used to be a hatmaker and had some mighty fancy shears that cost a fortune. I think my ex-husband (and present friend) still has them but I could see how they would cut like a son of a gun.
Lois the fabric shears comment is so accurate! I have my mum’s scissors too but can not bring myself to use them to cut paper or she too would be spinning in her grave. Must be after all those years of « don’t touch my scissors » but could she sew!!!
Awesome tips for cutting! I’m a scissor girl too! Love my cutter bee scissors! Can’t remember if you mentioned to move the paper as you cut and not so much the scissors. This was something I learned a while back that made a huge difference for me. Thanks for sharing!
I did go over that, Susan, because you are so right. For ages I used to chop my scissors at a piece. I sometimes find those old pieces at the bottom of a box of images and it makes me smile while I recut them smoothly. Glad I didn't know that I didn't know or I never would have begun. (Does that make sense?) Kelly
Kelly, thank you for the practical cutting tips. They really do make a difference. Also appreciated some guides about which images will be more challenging to cut out successfully. I love to tear and do it a lot, but sometimes a fussy cut is the way to go.
Hi Helene, you are quite right about tearing. Nothing like it for adding texture and interest. But there is also the trompe l'oiel look from a perfectly cut image. Off to edit today's video!
Great video. CutterBee scissors currently $5.00 on Amazon US.
Love, love, love Cutter Bee!! 🐝
Love your videos!
Thank you a lot. It is appreciated. 🌷🌷🌼🌼🌻🌻
Great technique help! Loved it and love your instructions! Where do you get your books? I LOVE them!! TYFS
Thanks bunches, Pam. I get my books mainly at used book stores and French flea markets. (I also sell them.😺) Here are a couple of videos that might give more information:
th-cam.com/video/MC7gd40F30s/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/6kjc0p-ufCQ/w-d-xo.html
Hope this helps! Kelly
Thanks for this Kelly. Love the hydrangeas tip. Also, like the cherries you demonstrated, I’m sometimes unsure if leaving a border around a “busy” image looks ok or not when adding to a layout.
Hi Sandy, Yeah, the border is just a matter of personal taste, but it doesn't not work, if you know what I mean. Have a creative weekend!
This is very helpful. Kelly! I had never thought of using spare time to cut out images that I might use later - great idea. I do really like the Cutter Bee scissors - I bought some a while back after watching one of your other videos. To me, it is a bonus that they are bold colors - making them easier to spot on my often very messy worktable 😁 Finally, I had never heard of a deckle edge ruler - might have to purchase one of those!
Yayayay! Funny that Cutter Bee isn't well known, they just cut so well with no fuss. Fiskars is my runner-up choice. Off to paint some imperfect watercolour flowers!
I look forward to your videos on Fridays. I am glad you made it last week but safe. Gracious! I would rather miss a video than having to missed a months worth because you got hurt. That being said..... Have you ever found your smudger? I can't wait to see it. It is almost like a treasure hunt now.
Why thank you. That really does make me happy. We have had blowy weather since then, too. Partly the way Wales is and partly crazy storm season! But we are staying safe and reasonably dry. I have an oil cloth coat with a huge hood and it is the best piece of gear I could have here. Ah, my smudging tool. What you wrote made me laugh - I have these ginormous boxes of mix-and-match art supplies and it is somewhere in there. I actually prefer the messy smudge but I am also doing some pre-Spring studio cleaning and if it turns up, I will put it in video just for you!😉😺💕
Wonderful, as always.
Thank you dearly, Kate. 🌻🌻🌼🌼🌷🌷
Kelly I’m loving binge watching your videos! I think with the finger knife you put your finger in the hole from underneath and then along the shaft to control it. Just curious where are you located?
Hi Linda, thanks for the heads up on the finger scalpel. I have been thoroughly informed that I was holding the darn thing the wrong way and oops. I live in Wales. I've been here over 20 years and have been a UK citizen for over 13. I keep intending to make an introduction video but the time gets away from me. Maybe soon.
@ great, I love knowing where people are, thank you!
Where did you get the beautiful flowers?
Hi Edie. Some of these are from a book of handpainted botanicals from 1842. Here is a link to printable versions on Etsy (if you like stuff like that):
www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1197770851/44-vintage-flower-printable-botanical?click_key=b891cd208eb0e8f29fadd59c5148a46925261b95%3A1197770851&click_sum=0265fad0&ref=shop_home_active_11&sts=1
Now, other places I find gorgeous flowers are way more accessible - I look for coffee table books in gardening or nature sections of thrift stores and used book stores. They are really cheap and give a lot of images. Gardening magazines are also fun with big flowers and they can also be found in thrift stores, etc. Look for old calendars, greeting cards, and so on. If you teach yourself to keep your eyes open, you will start to see them all over the place! Happy hunting and keep me posted. Kelly
Great info !
(for fine round cutting I usually use the curved nail scissors)
What a great video that you
Thank you, Desiree! 🌻🌻🌼🌼🌷🌷
If you or any of your followers have any advice for one-handed collage techniques, I would be grateful for any advice/tips. I have lost use of one hand from a stroke. Thank you.
Hi Sue, I do not but how about I put it out there in one of my upcoming videos and ask for suggestions. I will tag you if I get some answers!
@@BookandPaperArts thanks!
😃
How do you cover a cover of a book? I have one I want to alter and am not sure what materials to use.
Ok, lots of good info, but you used the Fiskars finger held knife wrong. It’s a fantastic tool, even for this scissors-inclined gal.
To clarify, place pointer finger in the hole and hold the base like a pencil. It gives a LOT of control and stability.
@@rosejames1436 Thank you, Rose. I blundered with this one and really do appreciate the heads up. Ah, the dangers of being self-taught! I am going to try this again. All the best! 🌷🌼🌻Kelly
I didn’t even know you could buy torn edge rulers….
Just one more tool in the paper tearing toolbox. 😺😺
🤍🤍🤍🤍