See the cutting tools we can't craft without, from scissors to decorative punches.

Designate one pair of scissors for paper and another for fabric and ribbon. Don't use your paper scissors, which will eventually become dull, to cut fabric; they can create pulls.

Besides their primary function in sewing and needlecraft, these scissors are excellent for cutting fine details. Remember to keep them sharp.

Prevent cut fabric from fraying by giving it a zigzag or scalloped edge. These scissors are great for paper (they have a longer reach than decorative-edge scissors), but use separate pairs for fabric and paper.

Popular among scrapbooking enthusiasts, this tool punches a variety of shapes (animals, leaves, letters) in a wide array of sizes. Corner punches shape corners and add decorative patterns, and sometimes embossing, to stationery and more; border punches do the same for the edges of paper.

Also known as a Japanese punch or a bookbinding punch, this tool can punch holes anywhere (regular hole punches only work near edges), and comes with several attachments for making holes in different sizes. Hold screw punches perpendicular to paper and press down to punch over a cutting mat.

This tool cuts a long straight or decorative edge in fabric or paper. Align a rotary cutter with a ruler to make a straight cut. A perforating blade will, as the name implies, perforate paper. Often one tool will be sold with multiple rotary blades.

Also known as a utility knife, this is an essential tool that cuts clean, precise edges. Craft knives are excellent for cutting heavier papers, cardboard, and foam core. They are not recommended for tissue paper or flimsy fabric, which will tear. Always make sure you're using a sharp blade, and work very carefully.

Circle cutters provide the best way, besides a craft punch, to cut a clean circle; much easier than scissors or a craft knife. One tool will cut circles in many sizes -- the one shown here cuts circles from 1 inch to 5 7/8 inches in diameter.