Iris Folding

[marcenepc]

When Iris Folding, what do you use to cut out the tempalte? I am having a hard time with my exacto knife.

[labullard]

I use Cutterbees" brand scissors, which are the same as SU's paper snips. I got mine at WalMart. Also good are small embroidery scissors. Another possibility I've seen suggested: scissors used for making flies for fly fishing, which are sold at hardware stores and tackle shops. These scissors have teeth edges along the side so they hold securely.

Other helpful hints: Don't try to start with cutting right on the outline of the design. Poke a little hole in the middle of the design and cut away a small hole. Make several cuts, gradually moving towards the the outline of the design. Then cut the outline away in small sections. Move the paper, NOT the scissors! In some of the awkward places, it is easier to cut from below.

Hope that helps!

Linda

[lauraos]

I use an exacto knife but the key is to use a glass mat, not a self healing mat. I found with the self healing mat, the knife would snag. On the glass it works perfectly. The other thing is to make sure the knife is sharp - once it dulls it will snag as well.

Laura

[patski]

If you are really interested in iris folding come over to circleofcrafters.com. We have a complete section on iris folding complete with lots of patterns and helpful hints. Plus we are a fun group.