Cardboard is one of the best materials to have in a makerspace. It is inexpensive, easy to find, and can be turned into everything from simple prototypes to elaborate student creations. The real challenges are figuring out how to store all those boxes and finding a safe, effective way for students to cut them. While I cannot solve your cardboard storage problem today, I can share four cardboard-cutting tools that can help students bring their ideas to life.
1. Makedo Safe-Saw
Recommended Grades: Kindergarten through fifth grade
Cost: Approximately $9.89
Website: Makedo Safe-Saw
Description: The Makedo Safe-Saw uses rounded, serrated teeth to saw through cardboard without sharp cutting edges. It is recommended for children ages five and older and is designed for small hands. Students can also reverse the tool and use the handle to punch starter holes in the cardboard.
2. Fiskars Kids Cardboard Creator
Recommended Grades: Third through eighth grade
Cost: Approximately $4.97
Website: Fiskars Kids Cardboard Creator at Wal-mart
Description: The Fiskars Kids Cardboard Creator uses a micro-serrated cutting edge that makes it easier for students to cut lines and detailed shapes. Its whole-hand grip provides additional control, and the protective sheath includes a puncture tool for starting cuts in the middle of a piece of cardboard.
3. Canary Cardboard Cutter
Recommended Grades: Sixth through 12th grade
Cost: $7.99
Website: Canary Cardboard Cutter at Amazon
Description: The Canary Cardboard Cutter uses a double-sided, serrated steel blade to create smooth, accurate lines, curves, and circles. It includes a rounded tip, nonslip handle, hand guard, and safety cap. Although it is safer and easier to control than a traditional utility knife, it contains a steel blade and should be used by trained students under adult supervision.
The final cardboard-cutting tool on my list is the ChompSaw. It is a bit pricey at $249, but it would be at the top of my wish list!
This last one is pricey, but would be on the top of my makerspace wish list, for sure!
4. ChompSaw
Recommended Grades: Kindergarten through eighth grade
Cost: $249
Website: ChompSaw
Description: The ChompSaw allows students to cut straight lines, curves, slots, and shapes without an exposed blade or spinning saw. It works like a rapid hole punch, removing tiny pieces of cardboard as students guide the material through the machine. It is the safest and most versatile option I reviewed, although it is also the most expensive.
Looking for more makerspace inspiration? Check out these additional TCEA TechNotes posts, including
- Ignite Innovation: Online Contests to Spark Makerspace Inspiration
- Ready, Set LEGO Wall
- An Incredible Maker Resource for Educators Gone Free
- Makerspace: Embrace the Joy of Making
With the right cutting tool, cardboard can become just about anything. Now it is time to grab a box and start creating! Wishing you a great beginning to the new school year.