Thursday Product Review: Martha Stewart Paper Trimmer

Last week I did a huge shop at Michael's. I was mostly low on patterned papers and cardstock, and I lacked a few really necessary tools for the craft room and my house. I purchased the Martha Stewart Paper Trimmer. We have a paper trimmer in the office, it was about $60 and it's so complicated with all different types of blades, ways to measure, swinging arms, and extras that I find it frustrating and overwhelming. The Martha Stewart Paper Trimmer is refreshingly easy to use. I'll categorize this tool as "essential" in my classification system. (Remember my thought is that all tools fall under one of three categories: essential, desirable, and extra.)

First, I must respectfully say that I do have one bone to pick with the instructions for setting up the blade. Have you seen the scene in the movie Zoolander where Ben Stiller & Owen Wilson are trying to figure out how to extra the files from the computer? Here's a refresher or an introduction. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2NhwAG-ilw&feature=related

So that was me trying to get the blade off.  (Not the italian part - that's all I could find on YouTube.)   The directions say: "Do not pull the cap off. Remove the cap by sliding it off to the side." Sliding it off to the side didn't work, I tried several times. I finally somehow ripped it off and cut the heck out of my finger.   It's probably more a reflection on my ability to read directions and follow than it is the product, but buyer beware!  Don't cut your finger like I did.

With that off my chest, there are so many positives to this craft tool and I truly think this is essential. There are two ways for accurate measuring and cutting. You can use the rulers on the top and the bottom of the base, and slide-out the paper guide. There's a quick cut method, too. Using it this way, you don't slide the side out. There's a blade magnifying window to see EXACTLY where you are cutting. The blade is extremely sharp and cuts quickly and cleanly. 120# cardstock was a bit of a challenge, but anything lighter was great! So smooth – the blade just glides through the paper. Instead of jagged edges or uneven cut lines with scissors, this gives a very clean and professional look. The entire tool is light weight and fits in my large tote lag. I can take it in my bag back and forth to the office.

The cards I made on the inspiration challenge Monday were made using the Martha Stewart Paper Trimmer. 

Tomorrow I will announce the winners of the Rosetta Peel & Stick pack and the Date Night Peel & Stick pack blog candy.   Check back tomorrow!