Scoring paper means creating a narrow groove or score line before folding it. This helps the paper fold exactly where you want it to and reduces the risk of cracks, creases or torn edges. Scoring is particularly useful when working with thicker paper and cardstock, as it gives your projects a clean, professional finish.

But how do you score paper correctly? And do you always need a scoring board? In this guide, you will learn how to score paper with and without a scoring board, which tools you can use and which types of paper are suitable for scoring.

What is paper scoring?

Paper scoring is the process of creating a straight groove in paper or cardstock before folding it. This groove is called a score line and determines where the paper will fold.

By creating a score line first, the paper fibres can bend more easily when you fold the paper. This results in a cleaner fold and reduces the chance of the paper cracking or tearing.

Scoring paper is particularly useful when making cards, boxes, envelopes, booklets and other paper craft projects where precise folds are important.

What is the difference between scoring and folding paper?

Scoring and folding are two different steps. When you score paper, you first create a groove in the surface. When you fold paper, you actually bend the material along that line.

Thin paper does not always need to be scored before folding. With thicker paper, cardstock and light card, however, scoring is often recommended. Without a score line, thicker materials are more likely to crack or tear when folded.

What do you need to score paper?

You only need a few tools to score paper. The easiest method is to use a scoring board with a scoring tool or bone folder. If you do not have a scoring board, you can also use a ruler and a blunt scoring tool.

How to score paper with a scoring board

A scoring board is a useful tool if you regularly make cards, boxes or other paper craft projects. It features parallel grooves that make it easy to create straight, accurately positioned score lines.

Place the paper straight on the scoring board and align it with the measurements. Decide where you want the fold to be, then place your scoring tool or bone folder in the correct groove. Run the tool along the groove using even pressure. Finally, fold the paper carefully along the score line and use a bone folder to sharpen the fold if required.

This gives you a straight, neat fold without having to draw or mark a line on the paper first.

Supplies needed

• Scoring board with grooves
• Scoring tool or bone folder
• Paper or cardboard

How to score paper with a scoring board step by step

1. Place the paper straight on the scoring board.
2. Decide where you want the score line to be.
3. Position your scoring tool or bone folder in the correct groove.
4. Run the tool along the groove using even pressure.
5. Carefully fold the paper along the score line.
6. If necessary, run a bone folder over the fold for an extra crisp finish.

How to score paper without a scoring board

Don't have a scoring board? You can also score paper by hand. For this method, use a ruler together with a bone folder, scoring tool or another blunt tool.

Place the paper on a flat, firm surface and determine where you want the score line. Position the ruler along this line and carefully run your scoring tool along its edge. Apply enough pressure to create a visible groove, but not so much that you cut through the paper.

You can then fold the paper along the score line.

Supplies needed

• Ruler
• Tool to make the fold, such as a blunt knife or bone folder
• Paper or cardstock

How to score paper with a ruler step by step

1. Place the paper on a flat, firm surface.
2. Measure where you want the fold to be.
3. Position a ruler along the fold line.
4. Run a bone folder or another blunt scoring tool along the ruler.
5. Check that the score line is clearly visible.
6. Carefully fold the paper along the line.

Tip: Test the pressure on a scrap piece of the same paper first. Too much pressure can damage thinner paper.

Don't have a bone folder or scoring tool? In the video below, you can see which everyday items can also be used to score paper.

Which types of paper can you score?

Not every type of paper reacts to scoring in the same way. The thickness, texture and composition of the material determine how much pressure you need to use.

Scoring thin paper

Thin paper, such as printer paper, can usually be folded without scoring it first. If you need a particularly accurate fold, you can create a light score line. Avoid applying too much pressure, as thin paper can tear more easily

How to score cardstock

Cardstock is thicker and sturdier than standard paper, which makes scoring particularly useful. When making cards, gift packaging or boxes, scoring cardstock helps you create crisp, controlled folds.

Cardstock with a coloured or printed surface can sometimes crack when folded without being scored first. Creating a score line helps reduce this risk.

Scoring scrapbook paper

Scrapbook paper comes in various weights and designs. Scoring is particularly helpful when using scrapbook paper to create envelopes, pockets, flaps, mini albums or other interactive elements.

Scoring watercolour paper

Watercolour paper is usually thicker and often has a textured surface. This can make it more difficult to score neatly. Work slowly using even pressure and test your technique on a scrap piece first whenever possible.

What projects require scored paper?

Scoring paper is useful for almost any project where you need to create accurate folds.

When making cards, a score line helps you create a straight centre fold and a neat finish. This is useful for birthday cards, invitations, Christmas cards and thank-you cards.

Scoring is also important when making boxes and packaging. Sides and flaps fit together more neatly when all the fold lines have been scored first. For example, try making this keepsake box.

For booklets, journals and mini albums, scoring helps pages and covers fold evenly.

You can also use scoring in scrapbooking, for example to create pockets, pop-ups and fold-out elements. Take a look at how to fold a paper envelope and use it as a decorative element or gift package.

Tips for scoring paper

• When scoring thicker paper, make several light passes rather than pressing very hard once. This reduces the risk of cutting through or damaging the paper.
• Always check where the fold needs to be before you start. Once you have created a score line, it is usually difficult to remove completely.
• Are you working with unusual, thick or textured paper? Test your scoring technique on a scrap piece first.
• For straight score lines, use a scoring board or sturdy ruler whenever possible. This helps prevent your tool from slipping while you score the paper.

Frequently asked questions about scoring paper

Why should you score paper before folding?

Scoring creates a defined line along which the paper can fold more easily. This produces a cleaner finish and reduces the risk of thicker paper or cardstock cracking or tearing.

Can you score paper without a scoring board?

Yes. You can score paper without a scoring board by using a ruler and a bone folder, scoring tool or another blunt tool. Measure the line carefully and avoid applying too much pressure.

Can you score cardstock?

Yes. Cardstock is particularly suitable for scoring. Because it is thicker than ordinary paper, creating a score line helps you fold it neatly and in a controlled way.

Can you score card?

Many types of lightweight and medium-weight card can be scored. The thicker the card, the more difficult it may be to create a good score line with a standard scoring board. Always check whether your tools are suitable for particularly thick materials.

What is a bone folder?

A bone folder is a smooth, blunt tool used for scoring and folding paper. You can use it to create a score line as well as to press down and sharpen an existing fold.

Why does paper crack when folded?

Thicker paper and cardstock can crack along a sharp fold because the paper fibres have less room to bend. Scoring the paper first allows it to fold more easily along the desired line.

Score paper for a clean, professional finish

Scoring paper is a simple technique that gives cards, boxes, booklets and other paper craft projects a neater finish. A scoring board allows you to work quickly and accurately, but you can also create a good score line with a ruler and bone folder.

Scoring makes a particularly noticeable difference when working with cardstock and other sturdy papers. Choose the right tools, adjust the pressure to suit the material and test on a scrap piece if you are unsure. This will help you achieve crisp, clean folds without unnecessarily damaging the paper.