Horror lurks in the shadows of Arkham, its ancient streets whispering tales of unspeakable horrors. As you delve into the depths of the Arkham Horror universe, you’ll encounter countless horrors, both physical and psychological. But among the many challenges you face, one seemingly mundane task can bring unexpected frustration: cutting out the dividers for your Arkham Horror card game.
These dividers serve as essential organization tools, separating the game’s vast array of cards into distinct categories. However, their intricate shapes and small size can make them a nightmare to cut cleanly and accurately. Fear not, brave investigator! In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the secrets of cutting Arkham Horror dividers with precision and ease. Follow our step-by-step instructions and banish the frustration from your Arkham Horror experience.
To begin your journey, gather the necessary tools: a sharp craft knife or hobby knife, a metal ruler, and a cutting mat. The cutting mat will protect your work surface from accidental nicks and scratches. Once you have your tools at the ready, carefully align the metal ruler along the cutting line of the divider. Apply gentle but firm pressure as you score the paper with the craft knife. Remember, it’s better to make several light passes than to try to cut through the paper in one go.
Gather Your Materials
Before embarking on the task of cutting Arkham Horror dividers, it is imperative to gather all the necessary materials. These materials will ensure the precise and efficient execution of the process.
Materials Required:
To successfully cut Arkham Horror dividers, the following items are indispensable:
1. **Paper Cutter**
A high-quality paper cutter is paramount for making clean and straight cuts. Opt for a cutter with a sharp blade and a sturdy base to provide stability while cutting.
Consider the size of the dividers you need to cut. A larger paper cutter will accommodate bigger dividers, such as those used in the base game.
If you do not have access to a paper cutter, a sharp utility knife and a cutting board can be used as an alternative, but they require more precision and care.
| Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Paper Cutter | Precisely cutting the dividers |
| Sharp Blade | Ensuring clean cuts |
| Sturdy Base | Stability during cutting |
| Utility Knife (Alternative) | Substitute for paper cutter (requires more precision) |
| Cutting Board (Alternative) | Surface for cutting with utility knife |
Measuring and Marking the Dividers
To ensure precise measurement and marking of the dividers, follow these detailed steps:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Materials
* Ruler or measuring tape
* Pencil or permanent marker
* Cardboard or foam board
Step 2: Measure and Mark Dividers
* Determine the desired height of the dividers based on the size of the Arkham Horror game components.
* Using the ruler or measuring tape, measure the height on each piece of cardboard or foam board.
* Mark the measurement with a pencil or marker at the top of each piece.
* Repeat the measurement and marking process to ensure consistency across all dividers.
| Divider | Height (mm) |
|---|---|
| Character | 75 |
| Monster | 85 |
| Asset | 65 |
| Event | 70 |
Step 3: Mark Cutting Lines
* Align the edges of the dividers to ensure they are perfectly flush.
* Using the pencil or marker, draw a straight line across the top of the dividers, connecting the measurement marks.
* This line will serve as the guide for cutting the dividers.
Cutting the Dividers
Materials you’ll need:
- Arkham Horror game box
- Dividers
- Ruler
- Utility knife or craft knife
- Cutting mat
Steps:
- Measure and mark the dividers to the desired size.
- Position the dividers on the cutting mat and align the ruler with the marked lines.
- Using a sharp utility knife or craft knife, carefully score along the marked lines.
Apply gentle but firm pressure and make multiple passes if necessary. Avoid cutting too deeply or damaging the dividers. - Once the lines are scored, bend the dividers along the score lines to create a clean edge.
- Repeat the process for all the dividers you want to cut.
- Use a new, sharp blade for clean cuts.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from accidental cuts.
- Practice on a piece of scrap cardboard before cutting the actual dividers.
- Gather your materials. You will need dividers, a ruler, a craft knife, and a cutting mat.
- Measure the cards. Determine the width and height of the cards you are using.
- Mark the dividers. Use a ruler to mark the width and height of the cards on the dividers.
- Cut the dividers. Use a craft knife to carefully cut the dividers along the marks you made in the previous step.
- Place the divider on the cutting mat.
- Align the blade of the craft knife with one of the marks you made in the previous step.
- Carefully cut along the mark, using even pressure.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the remaining three sides of the divider.
- Use a sharp knife.
- Use a ruler or a straight edge to guide your cuts.
- Cut the dividers slightly smaller than the cards. This will help the dividers fit snugly into the card sleeves, and it will prevent the cards from slipping out.
Tips:
Preparing the Dividers for Cards
Before you can cut your Arkham Horror dividers, you need to prepare them for cards. This involves a few simple steps.
Sizing the Dividers
The dividers should be slightly larger than the cards they are meant to hold. This will ensure that the cards fit snugly in the dividers and do not slide around.
To size the dividers, add 0.25 inches to the width and height of the cards. For example, if your cards are 2.5 inches wide and 3.5 inches high, your dividers should be 2.75 inches wide and 3.75 inches high.
Cutting the Dividers
Once you have sized the dividers, you can cut them using a craft knife. Be sure to use a sharp blade and a cutting mat to protect your work surface.
To cut the dividers, follow these steps:
Inserting the Dividers into the Box
Once the dividers have been cut, they need to be inserted into the box. This is a simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Orient the Dividers Correctly
The dividers should be oriented so that the tabs are facing up. This will ensure that the dividers are properly secured in the box.
2. Insert the Dividers Slowly
Do not force the dividers into the box. This could damage the box or the dividers. Instead, insert the dividers slowly and carefully.
3. Position the Dividers Evenly
The dividers should be evenly spaced within the box. This will help to ensure that the cards are stored properly and that the box is stable.
4. Secure the Dividers (Optional)
If desired, you can secure the dividers in place using a small amount of glue or tape. This is not necessary, but it can help to keep the dividers from moving around.
5. Replace the Box Top
Once the dividers have been inserted, replace the box top. Make sure that the box top is properly aligned and that it is securely closed.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the box and remove the game components. |
| 2 | Lay the dividers on a flat surface. |
| 3 | Apply a small amount of glue or tape to the bottom of each divider. |
| 4 | Insert the dividers into the box, spacing them evenly. |
| 5 | Replace the box top and close the box. |
Customizing the Dividers
Once you have your dividers cut out, there are a number of ways to customize them to make them more personal. You can use card sleeves to protect them, add color-coding or stickers to help you find the cards you need quickly, or even create custom artwork.
Adding Card Sleeves
Card sleeves are a great way to protect your dividers from damage and wear. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find ones that fit your dividers perfectly. Once you have your card sleeves, simply slide the dividers into them. This will help to keep them clean and free from damage.
Color-coding Your Dividers
Color-coding your dividers is a great way to make them more organized and easy to find. You can use different colors for different types of cards, such as monster cards, location cards, and event cards. This will help you to quickly find the cards you need during gameplay.
Adding Stickers
Stickers are a fun and easy way to add some personality to your dividers. You can find stickers with a variety of designs, including symbols, characters, and artwork. Simply peel off the back of a sticker and stick it to your divider. This is a great way to make your dividers stand out and reflect your personal style.
Creating Custom Artwork
If you’re feeling creative, you can create your own custom artwork for your dividers. You can use a variety of materials, including paper, paint, and markers. Once you have created your artwork, simply glue it to your dividers. This is a great way to make your dividers truly unique.
| Customization Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Adding Card Sleeves | Protect your dividers from damage and wear. |
| Color-coding Your Dividers | Quickly find cards during gameplay by using different colors for different card types. |
| Adding Stickers | Add some personality to your dividers with a variety of designs. |
| Creating Custom Artwork | Make your dividers truly unique by creating your own custom artwork. |
Storing and Maintaining the Dividers
Acid-Free Storage
To preserve the longevity of your Arkham Horror dividers, store them in an acid-free environment. Avoid using PVC sleeves or envelopes, as these materials can leach harmful chemicals that damage paper products.
Humidity Control
Excessive humidity can warp and degrade dividers. Store them in a cool, dry place with a relative humidity of around 50%. Consider using silica gel packets or a moisture absorber to control moisture levels in storage containers.
Physical Protection
Ensure dividers are protected from physical damage. Keep them in a dedicated binder or folder with a rigid cover. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of them, which can cause creases or tears.
Cleaning
Clean dividers gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust or smudges. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents. If dividers become stained or torn, consider replacing them with new ones.
Organizing
Use dividers to organize your Arkham Horror cards efficiently. Sort cards into logical categories, such as character cards, encounter cards, or location cards. This organization will enhance gameplay by making it easier to find specific cards.
Table for Dividing the Arkham Horror Cards
| Card Type | Divider Color |
|---|---|
| Character Cards | Blue |
| Encounter Cards | Green |
| Location Cards | Red |
| Enemy Cards | Black |
| Event Cards | Yellow |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. The Cuts Are Not Clean
If the cuts are not clean, it may be because the blade is dull. Try replacing the blade with a new one. You may also need to adjust the pressure of the blade on the paper. If the blade is too dull, it will not cut through the paper cleanly. If the blade is too sharp, it may tear the paper.
2. The Dividers Are Not the Right Size
If the dividers are not the right size, it may be because you did not measure the paper correctly. Measure the paper carefully and make sure that the dividers are the same size.
3. The Dividers Are Not Aligned
If the dividers are not aligned, it may be because you did not line up the paper correctly. Make sure that the paper is aligned with the edge of the cutter.
4. The Dividers Are Not Square
If the dividers are not square, it may be because the cutter is not square. Check the cutter to make sure that it is square.
5. The Dividers Are Not Straight
If the dividers are not straight, it may be because you did not cut the paper straight. Make sure that you cut the paper straight with a sharp blade.
6. The Dividers Are Too Thick
If the dividers are too thick, it may be because you used the wrong type of paper. Use a thin paper for the dividers.
7. The Dividers Are Too Thin
If the dividers are too thin, it may be because you used the wrong type of paper. Use a thick paper for the dividers.
8. The Dividers Are Not Smooth
If the dividers are not smooth, it may be because you did not sand them properly. Sand the dividers with a fine-grit sandpaper until they are smooth.
Benefits of Using Dividers in Arkham Horror
Arkham Horror dividers are essential accessories for organizing and enhancing your gaming experience. They provide numerous benefits, including:
1. Improved Organization
Dividers help separate different components of the game, such as cards, tokens, and dice, making it easier to locate the pieces you need.
2. Enhanced Usability
By organizing the game into specific sections, dividers reduce the setup and cleanup time, allowing you to get to the gameplay faster.
3. Reduced Wear and Tear
Dividers prevent cards and other components from getting bent or damaged during storage and gameplay, prolonging their lifespan.
4. Increased Immersion
Custom dividers with thematic artwork can enhance the atmosphere of the game, immersing players more deeply into the Lovecraftian world.
5. Personalization
Dividers allow you to customize your game with your own preferences and style, making your experience unique.
6. Reduced Confusion
By clearly separating the components, dividers eliminate confusion during gameplay, reducing the need for rule clarification.
7. Space Optimization
Dividers help maximize storage space in your game box, allowing you to fit all the components neatly without overcrowding.
8. Transport Convenience
When traveling with your game, dividers keep the components organized and prevent them from shifting or getting lost.
9. Comprehensive Set of Categories
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Ancient One | Dividers for each Ancient One, including their unique cards and mechanics. |
| Encounter Deck | Dividers for different encounter decks, such as Mythos, Rumors, or Special Encounters. |
| Character | Dividers for each investigator character, including their cards and starting equipment. |
| Location | Dividers for the various locations in the game, including streets, districts, and encounters. |
| Other | Additional dividers for specific components, such as conditions, tokens, or reference cards. |
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully cut your own Arkham Horror dividers. By following these steps, you can create custom dividers that will help you organize your game and make it more enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and styles to find the perfect dividers for your game.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips to help you get the most out of your Arkham Horror dividers:
1. Use a sharp blade
A sharp blade will give you a clean cut, which will make your dividers look more professional.
2. Cut slowly and carefully
Don’t rush the cutting process. Take your time and make sure that you are cutting straight lines.
3. Use a ruler
A ruler will help you to cut straight lines. If you don’t have a ruler, you can use a piece of scrap paper to guide your cuts.
4. Measure twice, cut once
Before you cut, measure the size of the dividers that you need. This will help you to avoid making mistakes.
5. Use a cutting mat
A cutting mat will protect your work surface from damage.
6. Be patient
Cutting dividers can be a tedious process. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time. Just be patient and keep practicing.
7. Have fun!
Cutting dividers is a great way to personalize your Arkham Horror game. So have fun with it and experiment with different colors and styles.
8. Store your dividers carefully
When you’re not using your dividers, store them in a safe place where they won’t get damaged.
9. Share your tips
If you have any tips for cutting Arkham Horror dividers, please share them with the community in the comments section below.
| Divider Size | Number of Cards |
|---|---|
| Small (2.5″ x 3.5″) | 20-30 cards |
| Medium (3″ x 4″) | 30-40 cards |
| Large (3.5″ x 4.5″) | 40-50 cards |
The size of the dividers you need will depend on the number of cards you want to store. If you’re not sure what size to get, start with the medium size and adjust as needed.
How to Cut Arkham Horror Dividers
Arkham Horror is a cooperative board game that uses a large number of cards. To keep the cards organized, many players use dividers to separate the different types of cards. However, the dividers that come with the game are often too large, and they can be difficult to cut to the correct size.
Here are a few tips on how to cut Arkham Horror dividers:
People Also Ask
How do I store Arkham Horror dividers?
Arkham Horror dividers can be stored in a variety of ways. Some people like to store them in the box that the game came in, while others prefer to store them in a binder or a card storage box.
What size are Arkham Horror dividers?
Arkham Horror dividers are 3 inches wide by 4 inches tall. However, you may need to cut them slightly smaller to fit them into card sleeves.
Can I use other dividers for Arkham Horror?
Yes, you can use other dividers for Arkham Horror. However, you will need to make sure that the dividers are the correct size and that they fit snugly into the card sleeves.
