Abstract: A cutting device for paper or other materials including a substantially flat base, a manually-operated cutting blade assembly, a sighting device, and a switch is provided. The base is adapted to receive substantially thin or flat materials for cutting. The manually-operated cutting blade assembly is pivotally attached to either side of the base and includes an elongated cutting arm positioned over a predetermined line of cut on the base. The sighting device includes a housing and an adjustable light source mounted within and protected by the housing, wherein the light source projects a fixed line of visible light along the predetermined line of cut. The switch and switch actuator activate and deactivate the light source.

Abstract: A device for cutting paper or other materials is provided. This device includes a substantially flat base, wherein the base is adapted to receive paper and other flat material for cutting. A manually-operated cutting blade assembly is pivotally attached to either the right or left side of the base. The cutting blade assembly includes an elongated cutting arm positioned over a predetermined line of cut on the base. A sighting device is mounted on the base on the same side as the elongated cutting arm and further includes a housing and an adjustable light source mounted within and protected by the housing. The light source projects a fixed line of visible light along the predetermined line of cut. A switch is included for activating and deactivating the light source. A first portion of the switch is located in the handle grip and a second portion of the switch is located within the housing.

Abstract: Cutting apparatus and methods are provided for cutting and trimming of flat materials, the invention incorporating an optical guide means for positioning of the flat material in a desired orientation. A laser device is positioned on a cutter to project a visual indication of the line of cut to be made by the cutting blade, and optionally along other lines such as to show a border or margin. Means are provided to power the laser device, and an optical element is provided to focus an emitted beam onto the cutter base, and any material placed thereon. Additionally the cutter includes a switching means for turning the laser device on and off. The switch can be mounted anywhere on the base or the cutting assembly. The cutter includes a cutting base for supporting the materials to be cut, a cutting blade assembly, and assistive cutting means such as a bottom blade on one edge of the base or a pad cooperating with the cutting blade to cut the flat material.