A paper punch is a handheld, hand-powered tool used in paper crafts. It is similar to the standard three-hole or single-hole punch, except that a paper punch used in paper crafts punches special shapes into the paper. You can find a vast array of paper punch shapes, from stars and flowers to music notes and Christmas trees. Some decorative paper punches can even create borders and decorative corners.

For most paper crafts, a shaped paper punch works best with card stock quality paper, but thinner weight paper can also be used, especially if you’re making confetti. In fact, confetti is a great use of a paper punch. You can use one or several shapes to decorate a party or shower invitation, and then use the same or a coordinating shaped paper punch to create confetti to fill the card. Other possible uses for a shaped paper punch include school and art projects, and of course the paper punch’s most popular use - scrapbooking.

When scrapbooking, a decorative paper punch might be used to create frames for pictures by placing punched borders around the picture’s edge, or a single shape punch might provide the finishing touch to a decorated page. Paper punch shapes, borders, and decorative corners can be placed in layers to decorate greeting cards or embellish scrapbook pages. The uses for shapes and designs created by a paper punch are limited only to one’s imagination.

To get the most life out of your paper punch, always punch single layers of paper and never use paper that is too thick or corrugated cardboard. If you attempt to punch through too many layers of paper or paper that is too thick, you can break the spring inside by forcing the punch. Also, avoid getting a paper punch wet, as the minimal mechanics inside can rust.