Maybe you aren’t an avid scrapbook, but still like crafting with paper? I use paper all the time, but I wouldn’t call myself a “scrapbooker”. Well, today I’m going to teach you a little trick that will help you when folding thicker paper and cardstock to not get those cracked edges and uneven folds without buying any special tools!
All you need is:
– Cardstock
– Flat surface you can apply pressure to (ex. cutting mat, cutting board from you kitchen, etc.)
– Butter knife
– Straight Edge (ex. ruler)
How to Score Cardstock with Household Items
Just line your paper up with your straight edge wherever you plan to make the fold (make sure you are even on both sides of the paper or you will get a diagonal line. Hold your straight edge firmly, and then using the non-serrated edge of your butter knife, apply pressure right up against your straight edge and slide down your ruler. You are going to want to apply some pressure, don’t be too nice to the paper ; )
Practice on a few scrap pieces until you see how hard you need to press because it is a little harder than you think!
Aren’t convinced yet? Let’s take a look at a piece that is just folded real quick vs the scored fold!
See what I mean. It’s just cleaner and prettier isn’t it? So go score something, then let me know what you think! I have a few projects coming up in the next week or so that involve scoring, so if you don’t know what to score, just come back in a few days and I can give you some examples! : )
genius!
Great tip!! Thanks :)
Ashley,
Whoa! My life is changed forever! You described me exactly- not a scrapper but love crafting with paper. Thank you so much for the tip!
Thanks for the tip with the butter knife. I love the look of a clean folded edge.
Thanks bunches, I needed this trick!
never thought to use a butter knife! Genius!
Wow, the picture you displayed of the folded yellow cardstock with and without scoring was very contrasting. It’s neat to know what a straight edge, butter knife, and pressure can do for cardstock. I am thinking about getting a card creaser since I do a lot of crafts for my craft and scrapbooking hobbies with my daughter.