How to Cut Elegant Paper Snowflakes

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Fold the paper in half.

   Stop at this point to make a star/snowflake with a pattern that repeats only three times. , This will make a 6 pointed snowflake with a pattern that repeats six times. , These will become the outside edge of your snowflake, so make them as interesting as you like.
   
   Cutting one side of the outer edge further away from the center than the other will yield "points" that stick out in the manner of a "real" snowflake., If your scissors begin cutting on one folded side, they must also end cutting on that same side.
   
   If you begin on one side and end on the other side, you will suddenly be making a much smaller snowflake. , Three larger cuts to your snowflake blank will generally yield better results than 10 smaller cuts.,, (Cut away 75-85% of your blank.) Use smooth, flowing curves for best results at first
   - This will make achieving the look easier.
   
   Attempt cutting the more angular flakes after you've mastered the tips. ,,,,,,,
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   Step 2: Fold the paper in half again

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   Step 3: making quarters.

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   Step 4: Fold each folded edge over to touch its opposite folded edge.

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   Step 5: Fold the paper in half.

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   Step 6: First fold by one third (60-degree angle).

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   Step 7: Turn over and make the second 60-degree fold.

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   Step 8: Fold the paper into 60-degree angles from the folded edge of the paper.

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   Step 9: Cut away waste paper (anything that is less than six layers).

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    Step 10: Fold the paper in half again

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    Step 11: so that the two folded edges lie atop each other.

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    Step 12: Cut the raw edges first.

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    Step 13: Cut one divot from each folded edge

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    Step 14: keeping your cuts parallel to previous cuts

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    Step 15: and taking large chunks of paper from the base.

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    Step 16: Keep in mind that elegant means simple.

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    Step 17: Make your cuts parallel and equidistant from each other

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    Step 18: to give a more "finished" or "polished" look to the craft.

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    Step 19: Leave only 20-25% of your blank.

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    Step 20: Be inspired by a church rose window.

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    Step 21: Make an angel.

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    Step 22: Try abstract designs.

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    Step 23: Play with geometric shapes.

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    Step 24: Make a design with five cuts.

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    Step 25: Try three cuts.

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    Step 26: Get creative with way too many cuts... it's still fun!

Detailed Guide

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