How to Cut LuxArchival® Sanded Art Paper From a Roll
LuxArchival® rolls allow you to cut the paper to the exact dimensions required for your project. Because the working surface is abrasive, a few simple precautions make cutting easier, cleaner, and more accurate.
What You Need
- A large self-healing cutting mat
- A long metal straightedge or ruler
- A utility knife with snap-off blades
- A pencil or other suitable marking tool for the uncoated back
- Clean heavy books or other weights
- Clean hands and a clean work surface
1. Place the Sanded Surface Face Down
Unroll the amount of LuxArchival you need onto a clean self-healing cutting mat with the sanded working surface facing down.
This leaves the uncoated cotton back facing upward so you can measure and mark your cut without drawing on the working surface.
Keep the sanded face in contact only with a clean surface.
2. Control the Curl Before Measuring
Rolled paper naturally wants to curl back toward its stored shape.
Place clean heavy books or other suitable weights on the loose portions of the paper to keep them stable while you measure and cut.
The purpose of the weights is simply to prevent the sheet and remaining roll from shifting while you work.
3. Measure and Mark on the Back
Measure the desired dimensions and make your cutting marks on the uncoated back of the paper.
Use a long metal straightedge to establish the cutting line.
For a large roll, it is often easier to cut a manageable section from the roll first and then trim that section accurately to its final dimensions.
4. Use a Sharp Snap-Off Blade
Cut along the metal straightedge using a utility knife with a snap-off blade.
LuxArchival contains an aggressive abrasive grit, and that surface will dull cutting edges considerably faster than ordinary paper.
A fresh blade edge gives a cleaner and more controlled cut.
5. Refresh the Blade Frequently
Do not wait until the blade feels obviously dull.
A practical rule is to expose a fresh blade segment after approximately every two or three cuts.
Snap-off utility knives are particularly convenient for this because a new cutting edge can be exposed in seconds. Replacement blades are inexpensive when purchased in bulk.
6. Cut the Final Size
Once a manageable section has been separated from the roll, measure and trim it to the exact dimensions needed for your project.
Keep the sanded side protected and face down throughout the process.
After Cutting
A piece cut from a roll may retain some curl.
If necessary, flatten it before use by lightly moistening the uncoated cotton back with distilled water and allowing the sheet to dry under even pressure.
See How to Flatten LuxArchival® Sanded Art Paper Cut from a Roll for the complete procedure.
Keep the Surface Clean
LuxArchival is manufactured as a clean white professional art surface, and every sheet is individually inspected for defects and soiling before being accepted for sale.
Use clean hands, clean cutting equipment, and a clean work area so that the surface remains protected while cutting and handling.
Avoid placing the sanded face directly on dusty, dirty, oily, or contaminated surfaces.
A Note About Cutting Tools
The abrasive surface is hard on blades. Trying to extend the life of a dull blade is false economy: fresh snap-off segments are inexpensive, while a cleanly cut piece of professional art paper is considerably more valuable.
Use a sharp edge and replace it frequently.