Papercuts by Joe

Boston's Joe Bagley is a modern age paper cutter. That said, don't think for a moment he prefers to use anything other than a traditional hand-held knife to make such fastidious cuts. In fact, he considers his very favorite tool, a vintage X-ACTO, to be practically irreplaceable.Joe graduated with an archeology degree just as the recession was kicking in... unable to find a job in his field, he has put all of his best efforts into building a paper cutting business. The art was something that had struck a chord with him while still a high school student. From all I've read via his website, blog, and Twitter (@PapercutsByJoe), the hard work is definitely beginning to pay off. His original paper cuts have been featured in gallery shows around the country. Upcoming shows are scheduled at San Antonio's High Wire Gallery, April 9-30, and in Boston at Acquire Boutique, June 15 through August 15. He also plans to do outdoor shows this summer.If you're interested in giving a unique gift, Joe would be pleased to work with you. One-of-a-kind paper cuts make perfect wedding and first anniversary (paper) presents, not to mention they'd be well received at any holiday or for a special occasion.He also offers hand-cut, custom paper silhouettes created from your digital photos - perhaps a picture of yourself, your children, pets, or home. Free digital designs are sent for your approval, and you'll have the finished piece within a week, hand-cut from a single piece of black paper and mounted on an acid-free, white mat board.

And how cool is this... if you're interested in giving paper cutting a try, Joe generously shares invaluable guides on his blog, to the paper, adhesive, and knives he most prefers when creating his own incredible works.