Cutting, Gluing, and Collage

Using Scissors Safely#

Scissors are one of the most useful art tools you have! With scissors, you can cut paper into any shape you want. But scissors need to be used carefully and safely. Let's learn the rules.

Scissor Safety Rules#

Rule 1: Always use child-safe scissors. Your school scissors are designed for kids. They have rounded tips so they will not poke anyone. Always use the right scissors for your age.

Rule 2: Point scissors down when walking. If you ever need to carry scissors, hold them with the blade pointing DOWN toward the floor. Better yet, ask an adult to carry them for you.

Rule 3: Cut away from your body. Always cut the paper away from yourself, not toward your fingers or body.

Rule 4: Pass scissors handle-first. If you need to give scissors to someone, hold the blade carefully and offer the handle to the other person. This way, no one gets hurt.

Rule 5: Put scissors down when not using them. Do not wave scissors around or carry them while doing something else. When you are done cutting, put them on the table with the blades closed.

How to Hold Scissors#

Hold the scissors with your dominant hand (the hand you write with).

• Put your thumb in the small hole
• Put your middle finger in the big hole
• Your index finger can rest along the outside of the scissors for extra control

Your other hand holds the paper steady while you cut.

How to Cut a Straight Line#

1. Draw a line on your paper with a pencil
2. Line up the blade of the scissors with the line
3. Open the scissors wide and close them in smooth, even snips
4. Keep looking ahead at the line as you cut — do not look at the scissors blade
5. Move the paper gently as you cut to keep the line straight

With practice, cutting along lines becomes easy and fun! Remember, everyone makes wobbly cuts at first. Keep practicing and you will get better and better.