1. Manual Cardboard Cutting Machine (For Crafts or Small Workshops)

Materials

• Heavy-duty rotary blade (like a fabric rotary cutter or pizza wheel)

• Wooden or steel base plate

• Metal ruler or guide rail

• Blade holder and handle (can be made from wood, metal, or 3D-printed parts)

• Bearings, bolts, and nuts

Steps

1. Fix the rotary blade onto a small axle with bearings so it spins smoothly.

2. Attach the blade and axle to a handle or sliding arm.

3. Mount a straight guide rail on the base to ensure accurate straight cuts.

4. Place cardboard on the base and slide the blade along the guide rail to cut.

This works much like a manual paper cutter, but built sturdier for corrugated cardboard.

2. Small Electric Cardboard Cutting Machine (For Workshops)

Materials

• Electric motor (0.5–1 HP)

• Rotary or slitter blade

• Feed rollers (in and out)

• Steel frame

• On/Off switch and safety cover

Steps

1. Mount the motor securely onto the frame.

2. Connect the motor to the cutting blade with a belt or direct coupling.

3. Install rollers before and after the blade to feed cardboard through smoothly.

4. Add a protective guard around the blade and an emergency stop switch.

This design resembles a rotary slitter machine, commonly used in small packaging shops.

3. Industrial Cardboard Cutting Systems (For Large-Scale Production)

• slitter scorer machines: Cut and crease large corrugated sheets.

• Die-Cutting Machines: Use steel dies to cut boxes or custom shapes in one stroke.

• Laser Cutters: High precision, mainly for prototypes and small runs.

These are expensive and suited for factories or professional packaging plants.

Safety Considerations

• Always install blade guards.

• Wear gloves and safety goggles when operating.

• For powered machines, include an emergency stop button.

• Start with a manual model before attempting a motorized build.