Hi there,
New to Lillypad and Arduino, but I learned electronics in high school. I just picked up my order from SparkFun, and was used when I looked at the Proto boards I ordered. I understand the concept of a Protoboard, and how to solder components to it, but what I am not understanding is how to cut the traces on the Protoboard they seem to be sealed under the board itself. How would I go about doing this?
Hi Aces Wild, and thanks for posting!
Can you tell me what products you’re using? The SparkFun part numbers would be great to know so I can better understand what you’re asking.
I’m using the lilipad protoboard, part number DEV-09152
I mistakenly referred to them as leads, I actually am referring to cutting the traces
Hi Aces.
Thanks for the clarification!
The traces are under a thin layer of purple varnish called soldermask. The easiest way to cut those is with a small, sharp blade like an Xacto knife. (we carry [this knock off one) You can find these at a hardware or crafts store if you need something quick and don’t want to place another order. 
Just make a few short slices across the trace and that should cut it. It’s a good idea to use an ohm meter to verify the cut, or you could use a good magnifying glass. Just be careful not to cut neighboring traces or you will need to run jumper wires to fix them.
We also have [this tutorial you might have a look at. It’s not for this board, but the same concepts are in play.
Have a great weekend!](How to Work with Jumper Pads and PCB Traces - SparkFun Learn)](https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9200)
Perfect, thanks!