Finding just the right hole punch is not easy. You might be on the hunt for a classic star or heart shape, or perhaps you’re looking for something a little more intricate, like a snowflake or leaf design. You might want to create a border, or kick your shape-making up a notch from round holes. No matter what you’re looking for, ARTnews has got the hole punches for you. Ahead, find the best of the best that you should be shopping for right now.
1. Bira Craft 2-Inch Rock Fern Punch
The lever on this small two-inch hole punch allows for more pressure with the least amount of effort. While this particular punch is in the shape of a fern, the brand sells a similarly designed three-hole punch in a multitude of shapes and symbols: from stars to hearts to snowflakes and more. The punches are easy to use and great for small (children’s!) and large hands alike, and they stand out from many other hole-punches because of the intricacy their designs. For best results, use them on 65-pound-and-lower card stock.
2. Darice Soft-Handled Cutout Shapes Set
This shaped hole punch comes in a set of three, including one star, one circle, and one heart. Each punch is fitted with a comfortable bright-purple grip for easy handling, making it simple to make a multitude of punches. That said, however, since it’s a grip handle, it’s not suitableis for use on heavier materials or thicker stacks of paper.
3. UCEC 6-Piece Craft Hole Punch
Featuring beloved standard symbols (a heart, circle, star, two flowers, and a snowflake), this set of six easy-to-use punches is well suited for children’s classrooms. Each punch has design that allows for clean edges with the utmost of ease. They only measure 2.7 inches long, however, so while good for paper edges, they won’t reach much further into a standard-sized sheet of paper.
4. SCS Direct Scrapbook Paper Punch
Made up of 26 mini paper hole punchers, this kit includes every symbol from a heart to a dinosaur. With so many icons to choose from, it’s the perfect set for kids. Like the pick above, the colorful hole punches work best on the edges of paper, as the distance from the spring to the blade itself is quite small. The punches come in a plastic carrying case for easy storage and transport.
5. EK Tools Edge Flourish Scroll Punch
If you’re looking for a punch just for borders, consider this scroll punch. It comes with a lock for uniform stacking and punching as well as an alignment guide to allow for the same.