Lacé comes from the French word meaning 'linked together' and it is also the name given to this cutting technique. You can make beautiful and unusual cards using these cutting templates, after the design has been cut. Simply score the fold line of each cut design and fold them back and link into the adjoining cuts. The full range of Lacé templates are available in the below category. Using Lacé duo-card you can achieve stunning effects due to the fact that the card is a different colour on each side.

General Instructions

Choose a design from the range of templates available and place the template in the correct position of your card (for example duo-paper). Ensure the card to be cut is on a protective cutting mat. Secure the template in place with a piece of Lacé template tape. Cut the design through the template with a Lacé Knife starting at the point and cut towards the edge of each piece of the design. Obviously it is much easier to cut with a sharp blade than a blunt one, so ensure that you change the blade in the Lacé Knife regularly. Once the design has been completely cut, carefully remove the template, score the fold lines with the Lacé folding/scoring tool used in conjunction with the Lacé ruler.

Fold the scored pieces over and tuck the points under the unscored points, this will reveal the other side of the paper.

To cut easily with a Lacé template try the following procedure:

* Work on top of it, so you can see through the gaps and cut straight.
* The older the template the easier it will be to work with.
* If you experience any difficulty with the cutting movement or you have an aching wrist or shoulder, try to work like this: cut all shapes in two parts.
* Always start at the top and cut towards the corner; firstly the first side of the template, than the other part. With round shapes you also start at the top in the centre and cut one side first and then the other from top to bottom.
* If a fray occurs at the meeting point, just sand it off with very fine sanding paper.
* Always fix the template at four sides with the template tape. If you remove it carefully after use you will not damage the paper!
* Do not only use the tip of your knife but at least half the blade! Keep the blade slanted (at about 45 degrees) and gently pull the knife towards you. Success!