Try It Thursday

Using a coluzzle doesn't have to be a scary thing. It can take a little practice with some of the more intricate templates, but the effect is well worth it. I'm just doing a simple lesson here, covering the basics. You will need the coluzzle blade, a template (I'm using the circle template) and a cutting mat. Don't try to use any other mat except the one specifically for Coluzzle. I made the mistake of thinking that any cutting mat would do just fine - BIG MISTAKE! (Ruined blade and ruined project!)



There is a front and back to the blade. The curved edge is the BACK of the blade. The front (leading/cutting) side is the straight, slanted edge. (In the picture, the leading side of the blade is pointing down.) When you place the blade in the template, put the back of it up against one of the connected edges to start. Make sure the blade is perpendicular to the template. You don't hold it like you would a pen or pencil. Slide the blade around the template. If yours has corners, there is a trick to them. Just life the blade ever so slightly as you get to the corner and go slowly. Often it will make the turn without requiring you to pull it all the way out.



Once you have completed your tracing of the template, it only takes a few snips with the scissors to have a finished product.

It's important not to get any nicks in your template. They keep the blade from moving freely around the design. If you do get a nick or slice, try filing it down with an emory board. That has worked on a couple of my templates, but not all of them. The ones where I was the most reckless had little hope of repair.

I'd love to see how you are using your Coluzzle!
:-)