Tools for Cutting Corrugated Cardboard

I'm making my business cards out of corrugated cardboard and other recyclable materials. I'm wondering if there are any hand-tools that I can use to execute a very clean cut.

What are your top recommendations for "Tools for Cutting Cardboard"?

I'll be heading to local craft stores (Micheal's, Craft Warehouse, JoAnne Fabrics, etc.) over the next few days. Although, I'll happily take any online recommendations that are quality/economical. (I'm a full-time student on a budget whose getting ready to launch her small-business, but, I won't purchase "cheap" if it jeopardizes "quality").

It'd be great if there's some sort of cutting tool that exists that's like this: 2X2, 3X3, 2X3.5, or 1x3.5 in size and works like a pre-inked stamp (press down on it and it cuts through the cardboard in the shape of a square or rectangle). A tool with rounded edges would be a plus. Anyone know if something like that exists? If it doesn't can I have it custom-made, and if so, from where? (Again, I'll happily accept any recommendations, regardless of geographic location since most companies - even small businesses - are willing to work with clients via e-mail).

I also need to make personalized rubber stamps for these business cards. I'll be designing what needs to go on the stamps. But, I'm clueless as to who to go through to make/order them, as well as, the dos/don'ts to stick to when I'm designing that artwork. Any tips for designing rubber stamp artwork and/or recommendations for where to order my personalized rubber stamps from?

Greatly appreciate the help!

-- Kim

I just put it through my trimmer and it cuts clean, every time!

I guess it kind of depends on how thick the cardboard is, and how consistent and easy you need the cutting.

A mega punch may work.

I might get a big office supply-type of guillotine cutter.

Yeah, a mega punch would definitely work if I can find it with rounded edges. It looks like I may need to purchase a trimmer, as well.

Thanks, Ladies!

• peasandmilk Said:

You can get custom made stamps at the office stores. Office Max, Staples. If you have a local printer in your town, they usually have rubber stamp makers available. I think I had some done at Mailboxes etc but ups or fed ex bought thm & they may have it too.

Big shot but you would have to buy dies.

I know places where you can get them through the mail too if that is ok with you. The mail order catalogs that sold cards used to have them. I can't think of their names now.

Go to your local office supply store to order the stamp. We had some made for our signatures on paperwork at the local office supply.

Do you by chance have an old red sizzix? Do you know someone who does? I think they have dies like that. Lots of people are selling their sizzix & dies very cheap beacause they got electric cutter. You can find machines for 20 bucks. Dies for 5.

I have a few custom stamps (acrylic though) made by a few different people on etsy. If you search over there you will find them

Thanks for all the suggestions!

After a trip to the craft store today, I learned that I have no idea how to use an X-ACTO knife or the skill to make a clean cut. It was quite a hilarious sight to see. Thankfully, my mom had this massive guillotine stored away in our garage. After a dozen bangs with a hammer and some sharpening, we were able to make it functional again. It's working well for the various thicknesses I'm working with. "Trial and Error" would certainly sum up today's trip -- in a good way.

The corner rounder punch I purchased does (surprisingly) cut corrugated cardboard. Thank the Lord!

I also made an ink purchase that I'm really excited about. There was a non-fade ink, which I almost purchased, but, wasn't sure if it was worth the cost.

So, now, it's on to designing that artwork! I'll for sure check out all the spots y'all suggested and ask them for estimates. And, go forward from there.

The closer I get to the final product the more creative I feel! I'll have to post a picture of the final product for y'all to see. How else might I best express my thanks for all the help!

-- Kim