Becca Bit: Making Straight Cuts

Oh wow!!  So many of you asked how I used the triangle ruler with my Tonic Cutter so I thought I would give you a very brief demo and more of an explanation.   Cutting is something that used to frustrate me, but now I have a little groove going.   As I mentioned before I make the first cuts on the big Tonic and then when layering papers I use the small Tonic to fine tune and to cut a scant edge.  I hope you enjoy the tip and it gives you a tool to make crafting more fun!!

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  • ColleenB.April 8, 2011 - 2:47 am

    Thank U 4 the Super, Fantastic video.
    It was most helpful. I just may end up using my cutter more and more now.
    ColleenB.ReplyCancel

  • JalineApril 8, 2011 - 2:52 am

    That is a fantastic tip. It will make it a lot easier with my arthritis also. Another gadget to buy, lol. Thank you so much.ReplyCancel

  • RobApril 8, 2011 - 2:57 am

    Thanks so much for this great tip Becca, I have eyesight problems and I’m sure that this will help me no end, to line up my paper at the right point.
    I’m off to try it out right away.ReplyCancel

  • MaryannApril 8, 2011 - 3:01 am

    Thanks sooo much for another great tip here. I admit, I never thought of this, adn I even have both of these, so it´s just to ge to use them LOL. And maybe I´ll also be more happy about my cutter too then? Haven´t used it much I must admit.
    Thanks sooo much again hun and have a wonderful week-end.ReplyCancel

  • ClavellApril 8, 2011 - 3:16 am

    I am always searching for the perfect cutter…now I can see a great tool for helping to make the perfect cut! Thank you for the wonderful ” tip. It is brilliant and will be very helpful.ReplyCancel

  • cynthia beynonApril 8, 2011 - 3:22 am

    BECCA BECCA THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER GREAT TIP. I THINK
    ITS THE BEST TIP YOU HAVE GIVEN US, ESPECIALLY IN MY CASE.
    NOW I CUT STRAIGHT LINES.

    CYNTHIAReplyCancel

  • Nancy SchultzApril 8, 2011 - 3:34 am

    Thanks Becca that is a great tip on cutting straight.ReplyCancel

  • ArtyjenApril 8, 2011 - 3:48 am

    A light bulb moment that has been switched on by you! Thanks for the simple but ever so effective tip Becca :)
    xoxo SiouxReplyCancel

  • Anne ( Midlands UK)April 8, 2011 - 4:11 am

    Thankyou Becca- we used to call them set squares. I am off to get one and am seriously thinking about getting a tonic cutter. Maybe not the big one yet – that may go onto my Christmas Wish List – I’ve just had my birthday. Thankyou for all this info. AnneReplyCancel

  • Kaen WallaceApril 8, 2011 - 4:40 am

    I just watched this and the ribbon flower and thank you so much!!! I just received the cutter and I LOVE it.ReplyCancel

  • Sheila - UKApril 8, 2011 - 4:56 am

    Becca thank you so much for this great tut!

    Love Sheila xxReplyCancel

  • EileenApril 8, 2011 - 5:27 am

    Another great tutorial,,,,thank you Becca once again.
    LOL EileenReplyCancel

  • MaryApril 8, 2011 - 5:30 am

    Thanks so much for this tip Becca it will make life a lot simpler when doing cuts close to the edge. Now why couldnt I think of such a simple solution :) What would we do without you ? :)ReplyCancel

  • Iris, Saved by GraceApril 8, 2011 - 5:34 am

    Hi Becca! Thank you, good job!! I never thought of the triangle ruler! Have a blessed day! Iris, Saved by GraceReplyCancel

  • JeanApril 8, 2011 - 5:52 am

    Becca, Thanks for the tutorial. I too have trouble with my paper not being straight. Thanks for the triangle ruler tip. I am off to Office Max! I can see that will help me with straight edges.ReplyCancel

  • Carol LApril 8, 2011 - 6:03 am

    I also own these Tonic cutters and wouldn’t use anything else! The triangle ruler is a genius aid to cutting straight! TFSReplyCancel

  • Vickie KrivacsApril 8, 2011 - 6:08 am

    Thanks so much. Unstraight edges are a source of frustration for many of us. You put a smile on lots of faces today!ReplyCancel

  • TammyApril 8, 2011 - 6:19 am

    I do not have a guillotine cutter. I use the Dahle 550 rotary trimmer, which I just purchased a few months ago, and absolutely love! It has a guide that you can move in from the left side, but I really think that I could use a triangle ruler on occasionl! Thanks so much.ReplyCancel

  • Edna BurgessApril 8, 2011 - 6:26 am

    Hi, Like the way the triangle ruler works and think I’ll be getting one. Good tips. My friend has 2 guillotine cutters and will try hers out.
    We tried your bows that you made 5 petals and the covered button in the middle. It didn’t turn out as well as yours did, but we were able to do it. Probably takes a little practice. Thanks for all your tips. EdnaReplyCancel

  • RitaApril 8, 2011 - 6:43 am

    You are just so smart! Thanks so much for showing this. I love my Tonic cutter, but I have found that I’m usually off every time and was having some frustration with that. I believe this very tip will correct what has been a frustration to me for a very long time. Thanks, again! I really appreciate this!!ReplyCancel

  • lois skiathitisApril 8, 2011 - 6:45 am

    What a clever idea, great video Becca. As always Becca, TFS!!! :-DReplyCancel

  • Lori mApril 8, 2011 - 6:51 am

    You just make the perfect videos, I’m one person that can’t still make that perfect bow or cut a straight line.

    However yesterday I was blessed with a DreamKutz cutter and wow, it worked for me lol.ReplyCancel

  • bonnie weissApril 8, 2011 - 6:53 am

    Another terrific BB … thanks for sharing it with us, Becca.ReplyCancel

  • JudyApril 8, 2011 - 7:15 am

    Thank you so much Becca ! I never would have thought to use a ruler as a guide like you did. The visual was awesome. :-)
    Big, big , BIG HUG !ReplyCancel

  • lucyApril 8, 2011 - 7:20 am

    Thank you for helping me figure out what I was doing and how to straighten it out!ReplyCancel

  • RobbieApril 8, 2011 - 7:21 am

    A couple of things. I ordered my new Tonic cutter and can hardly wait to get it. I trust your expertise and needed something I could take with me while we travel. Can’t wait to get it.

    Second, I could not hear your video. I had my volume turned all the way up and did not hear a single word. Is there a way I can get it louder? Thanks!ReplyCancel

  • Bette SApril 8, 2011 - 7:32 am

    Thank you so much for the video. You answered my question completely. Now to find one!ReplyCancel

  • Nadine BaileyApril 8, 2011 - 7:39 am

    What I like about the cutter you use is that there is a “built” in place to hold the cutter when you slice. Often when you hold down the the guide moves a little and will change the alignment. Thanks for the tutorial. I appreciate the information on the cutter and the triangle ruler.ReplyCancel

  • Olga JewellApril 8, 2011 - 7:46 am

    awesome tip, TFS!ReplyCancel

  • Marlene IacuzziApril 8, 2011 - 7:49 am

    What a helper, you are. i was wondering about the triangular ruler, also.ReplyCancel

  • Tina CovingtonApril 8, 2011 - 8:10 am

    Becca thanks so much for the visual. When I left my comment a couple of days ago, I thought that your used an additional cutter besides these two, which I own. But instead I now see you use the same two I use but you add this additional help tool. Love it! Will be getting me one of those ASAP! My large cutter has been, up until a couple of days ago, giving me “obvious” not straight edges. The same day I saw your post, I made a call to Tonic and he said that the screws that hold the arm down have tension springs and that I should try tightening the top screw on the arm slightly. Like he said half inch turns. I did that. And now it is back to perfect accuracy! And when I get the help tool too that you suggested? Stand back world! LOL! Thanks again!ReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth CApril 8, 2011 - 8:16 am

    Thanks Becca! I used one of those triangles during my jr high drafting class. I can’t believe I never thought of using it for cutting. And the agony it would have saved me when I was teaching and cutting construction paper! LOL Wish I wasn’t retired now so I could back and prove I could cut straight! Ugh the amount of paper I wasted along the way!ReplyCancel

  • Ann C.April 8, 2011 - 8:23 am

    Great tip for the plastic triangle! I’ve had the same guillotine cutter since 1995 when I first started scrapbooking. It’s an old metal office type, still sharp. That’s all that was available then. I’ve tried a few other things, but it’s still my favorite.ReplyCancel

  • Cindy haffnerApril 8, 2011 - 8:36 am

    Thanks Becca I will have to give that a try!!

    Hugs CindyReplyCancel

  • Judy I, St. Louis MOApril 8, 2011 - 8:45 am

    I had a 30% off coupon for my local stamp store right before my birthday. When I saw the only Tonic cutter they had I grabbed it and told the owner, “My husband doesn’t know how lucky he is. He just bought my birthday present and saved 30%!” The store owner assured me I’d love it, and I do, but thought my not always accurate cuts was just me. I’m off to Office Max to find an unbeveled triangle. Thanks for the great tip!ReplyCancel

  • Cheryl LApril 8, 2011 - 8:58 am

    After learning about your success with the Tonic cutters, I immediately went on-line and bought one. My old cutters have been giving me some terribly inaccurate cuts. I can’t wait for it to get here next week! Today, I’ll get a triangle ruler, and I’ll be ready when the cutter arrives. Thanks for all the tips and tutorials. Your blog is my “go-to” blog every morning, and anytime I need inspiration or advice.ReplyCancel

  • Sally GasparriApril 8, 2011 - 9:04 am

    I too own both of these cutters, and that is all I use. At times my cuts aren’t as straight as I would like them to be so I intend to purchase a triangular ruler and try your way. Thank you, once again, for what appears to be a genius of an idea.

    Sally GasparriReplyCancel

  • loriApril 8, 2011 - 9:07 am

    Absolutely love the frame. It is gorgeous. Just purchased some spellbinders and the cutter can’t wait to try it.ReplyCancel

  • MarianApril 8, 2011 - 9:07 am

    Thank you so very much. I love the idea and it certainly is going to make MY life easier!
    I’m going to invest in the tonic cutters as well as they look like they are more accurate than my good old fashioned wood one. It’s been invaluable to me, but it’s time to upgradeReplyCancel

  • jane w.April 8, 2011 - 9:19 am

    Hi Becca- had to leave you a thank you comment for this post! I too have this cutter and now I will be sure to get the triangle! :)ReplyCancel

  • VivaceApril 8, 2011 - 9:22 am

    I am sold! Always wanted a Tonic. Must buy it! Great tutorial! Thanks again!ReplyCancel

  • JessicaApril 8, 2011 - 9:26 am

    Hey Becca, thanks for this, I often have problem with strait cuts too. I’ve tried several different cutters, so I’ve decided that it must be something I’m doing wrong. This will probably make all the difference. Thanks again
    JessicaReplyCancel

  • Mrs. HamApril 8, 2011 - 9:34 am

    Thanks for the tuturial.ReplyCancel

  • MargApril 8, 2011 - 9:35 am

    Thank you so very much for the tip for the triangle ruler. How wonderful is that!ReplyCancel

  • barb fApril 8, 2011 - 9:39 am

    Thanks for the demo on that triangle ruler and making perfect cuts, believe me, I needed it and will use it all the time. thanks, barb fReplyCancel

  • HollyApril 8, 2011 - 9:44 am

    Genius! My cuts always seemed a little lop sided to me – thanks so much for this tutorial. I was wondering how you used the triangle ruler when you originally wrote about it.ReplyCancel

  • Mary H.April 8, 2011 - 9:50 am

    Becca, THANK YOU so much for taking the time to video this. Excellent tutorial, and I will certainly begin to do my cutting this way. Genius that you are, to think of this! TFSReplyCancel

  • Allison PhillipsApril 8, 2011 - 9:52 am

    Hi Becca,
    Was so pleased to see your guillotine cutter, and watch your demonstration
    with the triangle ruler. I am going to use that tip, as I think it is going to
    be just the thing for acuracy cutting. So helpful, Thank you.ReplyCancel

  • Brenda OsmanApril 8, 2011 - 10:01 am

    Brilliant!! Just brilliant. Such an easy thing to do. I got into my quilt tools and to my surprise, I found a Staedtler tirangle. Perfect. Your tips, techniques and Becca bits are inspiring and so helpful!!! Please keep them coming. Absolutely LOVE your Blog!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Theresa RomaniApril 8, 2011 - 10:04 am

    Becca, your creativity and generous attitude are a great gift to the crafting world (to the world in general too!) This little Becca bit is just one more example of why I love to visit your blog. I always feel cheerful and uplifted when I’ve stopped by. God bless you! It may seem like just a ‘bit’ to you, but you help so many people you will never meet in person.ReplyCancel

  • Diane K.April 8, 2011 - 10:07 am

    I’m sure you do not know what a good friend you are to all of us. Thanks for responding to our wishes and for making something that was frustrating and paper wasting into a delightful “ahah!” The triangle ruler worked flawlessly! You guarded us against a bevel edge and you are so calm and encouraging. Thank you Becca!ReplyCancel

  • SharonApril 8, 2011 - 10:08 am

    Thank you so much for this Becca Bit! I tried countless cutters before I purchased my first Tonic and now that is all I use. Your wonderful tip will alleviate the variances that I have noticed in my cuts! TFS!!!ReplyCancel

  • Pat JandacekApril 8, 2011 - 10:20 am

    Thank you so much for this tutorial and your caution to use an unbeveled edge. This is so much easier and requires less of an ‘eye’ than how I had envisioned it was used. Not only did your video tutorial clarify your methods, you informed us as immediately as possible. You’re terrific, Becca!ReplyCancel

  • Lynne IngramApril 8, 2011 - 10:34 am

    Becca: Thanks for another great tip. Will certainly give it a try.ReplyCancel

  • Mary MacApril 8, 2011 - 10:35 am

    Thank you so much Becca for a very clear and most useful tutorial. Having to cut ‘anything’ has always been a scary prospect for me because I just can’t recognise the difference between straight v slant! So when something is ‘off’ I could end up trimming a ‘straight’ side to make the correction – two wrongs definitely do not make a right!!!! iykwim!!

    You are a treasure Becca and a selfless one at that.
    BIG CYBER HUGS…. XReplyCancel

  • GaleApril 8, 2011 - 10:38 am

    Thank you Becca for all the techniques that you share with us, you have made everything so simple. I also have had problems with cutting things straight, I will have to find a triangle ruler. I also love the basket with the half cutting. I love how that looks so nice.
    Thank youReplyCancel

  • Anne DApril 8, 2011 - 10:51 am

    Thank you Becca! You constantly teach me something new, and it is very much appreciated!ReplyCancel

  • Carol WApril 8, 2011 - 10:59 am

    Thank you SO much for this quick response to the question! (I was one of the people who asked for this helpful demonstration!) Your additional tips about getting an unbevelled ruler are super helpful as well.

    I agree with another viewer who commented that you have helped so many people you will never meet. What a legacy of sharing and collegiality you are weaving.ReplyCancel

  • ChelseaApril 8, 2011 - 11:00 am

    Thank you so much, Becca. That was truly helpful. I’ve had trouble getting straight cuts forever. I appreciate you sharing your tips and techniques to help me out!ReplyCancel

  • JosephineApril 8, 2011 - 11:10 am

    Who would have ever thunk it, except for you! Such a simplistic idea but yet immensely helpful. Another item I now must add to my list. Yours is the only website that I make a point of checking out every day cause I don’t want to miss a thing! You’re exceptional. Bless you. And thanks … for all you do for us.ReplyCancel

  • GerryApril 8, 2011 - 11:16 am

    Thank you so much for this tip. I guess my next purchase is going to be a guillotine cutter — two, in fact. I, too, have been dissatisfied with the blade cutter. I felt like I measured extremely carefully, only to have an uneven edge and could never get a sliver cut to even up.ReplyCancel

  • LindaApril 8, 2011 - 11:17 am

    Thank you Becca for adding the video. I mentioned yesterday that I bought the 12″ version after reading your report. Goods news is that here in the UK we have one of the biggest craft shows on this weekend in London which I shall be going to and of course I’ll be on the look out for the smaller version (amongst other things!!!!). You are one of my top favourites, love, love, love your style. Thank you as always for sharing. XOXOReplyCancel

  • Candy MillsApril 8, 2011 - 12:15 pm

    Thank you so much, Becca!
    I wasn’t going to ask you how you used your triangle ruler with your Tonic cutter cause I thought you would think I was pretty stupid! I am so glad that others did :o)
    Hugs, CandyReplyCancel

  • BernieApril 8, 2011 - 12:21 pm

    OH MY Goodness why didn’t I think of that!!! My DH was a hobby woodworker and used what I believe he called a square, it did virtually the same thing so he’d get a straight edge on his wood every time. Good heavens I even have a triangle ruler one of the kids left behind when they left the nest. THANK YOU for opening my eyes. I don’t have the tonic but I am sure this will help until I can save up to get one.
    Bless You!
    BernieReplyCancel

  • Janet CastleApril 8, 2011 - 12:39 pm

    How simple is that!!! I have been trying to use a ruler and it always slides because it is not wide enough at the top to stay in place – can’t thank you enough Becca for this Becca Bit!!!!!!
    Hugs,
    Jan CastleReplyCancel

  • KathApril 8, 2011 - 12:58 pm

    Thanks so much for such a clear explaination.. you ROCK!!ReplyCancel

  • Judy JApril 8, 2011 - 1:40 pm

    Becca,
    Thank you for the video to make perfect cuts. You never cease to amaze me with your wonderful God given talent. Your creativity and generousity are very much appreciated.
    Hugs to you,
    JudyReplyCancel

  • sandi ackermanApril 8, 2011 - 2:08 pm

    That was cool. I have often thought about making my own quilling strips. How many excess pieces of paper that are long but thin could be used like that.? Do you decorate with quilling strips? I am thinking with your tonic cutter and the triangle, you could make allot of strips.ReplyCancel

  • Sylvia/GeorgiaApril 8, 2011 - 2:21 pm

    Thank you so much for your help.ReplyCancel

  • ChinnuApril 8, 2011 - 3:18 pm

    Thank you, Becca – this was so helpful! I am trying to hold on to some willpower re. the Tonic cutter….. but am weakening fast! Great tutorial.ReplyCancel

  • LaurieJApril 8, 2011 - 3:23 pm

    As always, a fantastic Becca Bit. Thanks Becca! And thank you so much for the information about what cutter you use – I struggle with getting a straight cut, so I think the Tonic will go on my wish list.ReplyCancel

  • Marianne CApril 8, 2011 - 5:26 pm

    Your video was super helpful, thank you!! I already have 2 Tonic cutters (large and medium.) All I need now is the triangle ruler.ReplyCancel

  • AllisonApril 8, 2011 - 5:37 pm

    Thanks for the idea Becca. Love my tonic but sometimes I had the same problem. Maybe they can reinvent a straight edge holder on the next generation of guillotines!ReplyCancel

  • Terri D.April 8, 2011 - 8:03 pm

    Wow Becca, this is a super tutorial. I at times have uneven cuts as well but with this information I am sure to improve on that. I’m also thinking that my Omnigrid ruler from my quilting days will be a good substitute if I can’t get to the office supply store right away. I thank you for taking the time to make this “Becca Bit” for us. I always learn something new and useful from reading your blog.
    Blessings,
    Terri D.ReplyCancel

  • DeniseApril 8, 2011 - 9:14 pm

    Thanks so much… it’s amazing how it can take me so long to come up with a simple solution to things.. you just saved me a lot of time. Thanks for sharing.ReplyCancel

  • LMcBurneyApril 8, 2011 - 10:36 pm

    We asked for a tutorial and you gave it…you rock! That was really neat to see how quickly you responded to our requests. I am going to try the triangular ruler! Love it, love you!ReplyCancel

  • SuziApril 9, 2011 - 10:28 am

    I’m going to do my best to get that triangle this weekend. I don’t get out of the house much, but this will be worth the effort! Thank you!ReplyCancel

  • SueApril 9, 2011 - 2:34 pm

    Love the triangle ruler tip. Can’t wait to get the ruler and start cutting!ReplyCancel

  • dianeApril 9, 2011 - 2:54 pm

    Thanks Becca,I would have never thought of this, WOW its a great tip,
    I am going broke from buying spellbinder dies after seeing your projects,
    LOL. You are really special shareing with all of us.
    God Bless, DianeReplyCancel

  • Linda RichApril 9, 2011 - 3:13 pm

    Thank you Becca, as usual, your tips are worth hearing. I have already tried it and it works wonderful. Thank you for sharing.ReplyCancel

  • CarolApril 9, 2011 - 4:48 pm

    Brilliant, Becca! I have the 6″ Tonic cutter and I LOVE your hint with the triangular ruler! But I thought I struck gold with the cutter alone. So imagine me one happy gal! Admittedly, I am a bit of a perfectionist…ReplyCancel

  • Denise TrottierApril 9, 2011 - 4:57 pm

    Oh my God, Becca, thank you so much for the tip…I have the same problem as you trying to get a straight cut at top and bottom…but now I’m sure it’s been settled…this tip will save me so much time…thank you so much, this is the best tip for me…God Bless…
    Denise TrottierReplyCancel

  • DeniceApril 9, 2011 - 7:49 pm

    wow, isn’t it amazing how easy something can be and still you never think of it until you see it. I was like…… “Now why didn’t I think of that”. Super cool idea……thanks bunches…..ReplyCancel

  • Brenda BApril 9, 2011 - 9:14 pm

    BECCA—YOU ARE AWESOME….THANKS FOR SUCH GREAT HINTS AND ALL THAT YOU SHARE WITH US !!!!!.ReplyCancel

  • ChristineApril 9, 2011 - 9:47 pm

    How simple and brilliant! I have been frustrated with my inability to make straight cuts with the guillotine cutter. …… Don’t have a triangle ruler, but will try the metal square I keep for cutting fabric. Thanks for sharing!ReplyCancel

  • Norma JeanApril 9, 2011 - 11:47 pm

    How simple and very cool “ah-ha” moment when you thought of this I’ll bet! Thanks for sharing your nifty ideas, Becca!ReplyCancel

  • Shirley NApril 10, 2011 - 4:39 pm

    Hi Becca! I always get soooo frustrated every time I don’t get that perfect square and I was so excited to see this video! TFS this wonderful tip, you’re awesome Becca!!!ReplyCancel

  • Mary RobersonApril 10, 2011 - 10:43 pm

    I have the same problem with cutting straight. This video is going to change
    my cutting in the future! Thanks for sharing your Becca Bit with us:)ReplyCancel

  • Lori EllApril 12, 2011 - 8:48 am

    Thank you so much Becca. I’ve been searching for so long for the perfect cutter. I always loved the guillotine cutter and have tried EVERY OTHER TYPE. I always go back to the guillotine. My guillotine is wood and not really accurate though. I bought one online and got really carried away with the heavy duty thing. I could cut a tree stump with this thing but not accurate at all. I keep it for the thick card board though. ha ha. I’m going to buy a tonic when I’m done with all the holidays and my hubby’s 50th and other family things this month. Sorry so long. Thank you again for all your tuts.

    God Bless,
    LoriReplyCancel

  • JanApril 15, 2011 - 12:47 pm

    Brilliant! Why didn’t I think of that? I have several triangle rulers for quilting – I am going to check them out and see how they work. I don’t think they have a beveled edge. Thanks for the tip.ReplyCancel

  • BetsyApril 17, 2011 - 9:42 pm

    Thank you, thank you, thank you! I was always cutting my papers crooked and thinking it was my cutters. I just ran out and purchased a triangle. I am so excited! Straight cuts for me from here on out!! Yeah!ReplyCancel

  • Neesey GebalskiApril 27, 2011 - 2:30 pm

    I am fond of this type of cutter as well. I thank you for the video. It explains a lot for me. I’m off to go look for my triangle!ReplyCancel

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