Bypass Paper Trimmer Vs. Rotary Paper Trimmer

A bypass paper trimmer can handle heavy-duty material.

Ease in trimming paper and photos cleanly and to desired size is necessary for scrapbooking and other paper-based crafts. Bypass and rotary trimmers have different features to consider when choosing a trimmer.

Cutting Mechanism

A bypass trimmer has a straight blade with a handle attached. It works as a lever in a guillotine-like fashion. A rotary trimmer cuts with a disc-shaped rotary blade that glides along a bar, cutting as it goes.

Sizes

Bypass trimmers are large and heavy. Rotary trimmers are lighter weight, more easily stored and come in a variety of sizes.

Cutting Blades

Bypass trimmer blades are meant to last the lifetime of the trimmer. Dull rotary blades can be replaced with new ones.

Decorative Edges

Bypass trimmers cut straight edges. Rotary blades come in a variety of edge finishes---deckle, pinked, scalloped and more. Replace the standard blade with a decorative one to meet your project needs.

Paper Capacity

Bypass trimmers handle heavier stock and more sheets of paper at a time. Rotary trimmers are best for one to several sheets at a time.

Safety

Bypass trimmers present more risk, as the blade is exposed during use. Rotary cutters are enclosed in a guard that protects fingers.

References

• Craft Critique: Choosing a Paper Trimmer
• Examiner: Essential Papercrafting Tools the Series: Part Two the Paper Trimmer