Cutting large paper (cheaply)

[Former_Member]

I've been looking at options for cutting large printmaking paper. I don't have access to my university anymore. (I loved using the nice professional paper cutters.) And like almost everyone else, I've got a limited budget and limited space. So, the lovely $200+ paper cutters aren't an option for me. So the only options I've thought of are using my self-healing cutting mat, a straight edge, and an x-acto knife. Or possibly a mat cutter would work. Has anyone figured this out without spending several hundred dollars?

[VIZArt]

i just use a straight edge and a self healing cutting mat or i just tear my paper.

[WilliamLeeHolt]

I went to Home Depot and bought a 48" t-square. My table is 42", so it works out great. The table has a 36" self-healing cutting mat taped to it.

[Former_Member]

I am using a medical scalpel. It goes through everything =)

[Former_Member]

So, simple is best! T-square, self-healing cutting mat, and an x-acto. Thanks folks.

[LynnBaileyPrintmaker]

I dislike the hard, sharp edge you get with a craft knife. I float mount my prints and like to show the deckle edge (where there is one) so I find an irregular torn edge more aesthetically pleasing and in keeping with quality cotton rag paper. It’s very simple to fold even the largest of papers and slice with a not too sharp/not too blunt knife. (I use an old bone handled kitchen knife most of the time, but will happily use a ruler if I want an even softer edge). Line up the bottom edges of the paper nearest you and run the back of your thumbnail up the fold to make a sharp crease. Then slice with the knife at approximately 45degree angle. If I’m cutting very large paper – or only cutting a few cm off I usually measure and make small indentations at intervals all the way up the edge to be cut. Rather than relying on the paper folding square with just one measurement at the bottom edge.
So easy to show you – so hard to put into words!