Paper cutter

A paper cutter is a device that trims or cuts paper of different thicknesses. Also called a paper trimmer, a paper cutter comes with a ruled board surface, a long blade affixed to the board, and a clamp that secures the paper that needs to be cut. Paper cutters are usually found in workplaces, business centers, and schools.

Types of paper cutters

The types of paper cutters support specific cutting needs. A guillotine paper cutter delivers straight cuts in desk and industrial formats. An electric paper cutter achieves clean, precise cuts with an electric-powered motor operating the cutting blade. An electric paper cutter completes the task with the touch of a button. A wrapping paper cutter is a lightweight and portable tool that helps dispense and cut wrapping paper, making it more convenient to wrap gifts. A heavy-duty paper cutter is used in high-volume environments and businesses such as copy and print establishments that require speed and accuracy. Portable paper cutters are mainly used to clip smaller sheets of paper, including items such as cards, invitations, and printed photographs.

Features of paper cutters

The features of paper cutters demonstrate its practicality. One of the important features of the paper cutter machine is the blade, which can be straight, rotary, or electric-powered. Straight blades have a flat and linear cutting edge, such as a paper guillotine, whose blade is made of sharp and durable steel that can cut through many types of paper and cardstock. Circular or rotary blades roll along a track to easily cut through paper. Rotary blades are mainly used to cut shapes and curves. In contrast, an electric-powered blade automates the cutting process, making it more efficient. The length of a desk paper cutter ranges from 12 inches to 15 inches, while larger models may range from 18 inches to over 26 inches. The cutting capacity measures the maximum number of paper sheets the tool can cut at a given time. While the cutting capacity of standard paper cutters is from 10 to 20 sheets of 20-lb. paper, high-capacity models can handle anywhere from 50 to 500 paper sheets. In addition, paper cutters come with measurement or ruled guides to help align and cut paper precisely. These measurement guides can be adjusted in some models of paper cutters to make the cuts consistent. Ergonomic handles in some paper cutters lessen the pressure on the hand muscles and joints.

Considerations in selecting paper cutters

There are several considerations involved in the selection of paper cutters. They include the type of materials to be cut, the device construction, capacity, and safety features. A paper cutter's suitability depends on the paper used, like standard paper or paper with curves or shapes. In addition, the components of the paper cutter must be able to accommodate consistent use. A strong base and blade can help determine a paper cutter's long-term durability. When comparing paper cutter options, users must also look at the cutting capacity, which defines the largest number of paper sheets that can be trimmed. Whether mechanical or electrical, a paper cutter must incorporate safety features like blade guards and locks that are essential to reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.