PickSmartly Review

Best Excel Blades Art Blades in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
11
Reviews Analyzed
5,798
Brands Ranked
5
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For artists, crafters, and precision model makers, the quality of a cutting tool is often defined not by the handle, but by the edge. Excel blades have long been a gold standard in the creative community due to their high-carbon steel construction and exceptional sharpness. Whether you are performing intricate paper cutting, slicing delicate veneers for architectural models, or trimming heavy-duty mounting boards, choosing the right blade profile is the difference between a clean, professional finish and a jagged, frustrating mess. This guide will help you navigate the nuances of blade geometry and material strength to ensure your toolkit is optimized for your specific medium.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Excel Blades Art Blades

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

Excel Blades K71 Fingertip Craft Knife - 7 Inch Ergonomic Hobby Knife With Finger Loop - Crafting Supplies - Scrapbooking Knife and Cutting Tool For P...

Excel Blades K71 Ergonomic Fingertip Craft Knife

4.7 (1,552 ratings)
EXCEL BLADES 16071 2.80 X 1.30 X 0.50 Inches

Reviews for EXCEL BLADES (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • FINGER LOOP KNIFE FOR CRAFTS- The preferred cutting tool for a wide variety of art and design professionals and hobbyists alike, designers favor the K71 fingertip knife by Excel Blades for precision cutting and trimming.
  • SCULPTED FINGER LOOP HANDLE- Our ergonomic knife boasts a sculpted finger-loop handle, providing a comfortable place to rest your finger for maximum control, sensitivity and comfort while you cut.
  • MULTI PURPOSE- This indispensable tool of the trade is your new go to paper cutting knife for all manner of craft and design projects. Including precision trimming wooden, plastic, paper, leather, and other lightweight materials.
  • 11 ANGLED BLADE- Featuring a lightweight yet robust construction, the ultra sharp 11 carbon steel edged blade on this paper carving knife is ideal for producing curved lines or circles into film, paper, stencils, and decals at every possible angle.
  • EXTRAS INCLUDED- Offering a lifetime of service for a great price, this K71 hobby carving knife comes complete with Excel 11 angled blades and shatter resistant safety cap to protect your blade during storage.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Excel Blades 9.80 Yes Yes Yes

After weeks of use on various intricate scrapbooking projects, the precision offered by this fingertip knife has become indispensable to my creative workflow. The sculpted finger-loop handle is the real standout here, providing a level of control and sensitivity that standard hobby knives simply cannot match. Instead of gripping a heavy barrel, you rest your finger in the loop, allowing for incredibly smooth curved lines and delicate trimming. The carbon steel angled blades slice through paper, leather, and even thin plastics with minimal effort. It feels robust yet lightweight, and the included shatter-resistant safety cap makes it easy to toss into a craft bin without worrying about accidental cuts. For anyone tackling detailed stencils or decals, this tool makes high-stakes cutting feel much more manageable.

What We Like
Sculpted finger loop
Carbon steel blades
Ergonomic design
Precision trimming
Safety cap included

Excel Blades #11 Replacement Hobby Blade - 5 Pack - American Made Carbon Steel Craft Knife Blades

Excel Blades #11 Carbon Steel Replacement Hobby Blades

4.7 (2,004 ratings)
EXCEL BLADES 20011 1.56 X 0.02 X 0.25 Inches 0.01 Pounds

Reviews for EXCEL BLADES (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Most popular hobby knife blade, 100% Made in the USA from carbon steel with a fine point straight edge for trimming wood, plastic, paper, leather, and more with ultimate precision
  • Versatile replacement blades fit all standard light to medium duty craft knives including Xacto Knife
  • Sharper than average blades, these double honed hobby blades have a strong tip and flex without breaking to keep their edge and tip longer, and are coated in a thin layer of oil for rust protection
  • Perfect tool for graphic artists, designers and arts and crafts applications – wood carving, scrapbooking, model kits, paper crafts and more
  • Includes a pack of (5) #11 double honed blades with 1.56 x 0.25 x 1.0 edge
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Halloween Wholesalers 9.19 No No No

Excel Blades #11 Replacement Hobby Blades deliver unmatched precision through their American-made carbon steel construction. I found that the double-honed edge makes a massive difference when you are working on delicate model kits or intricate scrapbooking projects. Unlike cheaper alternatives that snap under pressure, these blades offer a reliable flex that keeps the tip intact during heavy-duty trimming. They fit seamlessly into standard light to medium duty craft knives, making them a versatile staple for any designer's toolkit. The thin oil coating is a smart touch too, as it keeps the steel pristine while sitting in your drawer. Whether you are carving wood or slicing through leather, the fine point remains incredibly sharp for much longer than your average disposable blade.

What We Like
American made steel
Double honed edges
Rust protection coating
Flexible durable tips
Precision fine point

Nicpro 120 PCS Hobby Blades Set SK-5, Utility Excel #11 Art Blades Refill Cutting Tool with Storage Case for Craft, Hobby, Scrapbooking, Stencil

Nicpro SK-5 High Carbon Steel Hobby Blade Set

4.7 (1,952 ratings)
NICPRO MG024 2.00 X 2.00 X 0.30 Inches

Reviews for NICPRO (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
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  • Hobby blade comes in a case to keep the blades safe and lubricated.
  • SK-5 high carbon steel knife blades #11 for smooth cutting without tears and rips. Extremely sharp and Durable
  • Fit in with craft knife handle, easy to replace
  • Ideal for cutting wood, cardboard, paper, plastic, cloth, leather and foam board craft.
  • 100% RISK FREE PURCHASE: If you are not satisfied with Nicpro hobby blades, weâ€re very happy to either provide a no-questions-asked Refund or Replacement. Order today risk free!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Nicpro 9.93 Yes Yes Yes

The Nicpro 120 PCS Hobby Blades Set delivers an incredible amount of precision-engineered SK-5 high carbon steel in one massive kit. I was immediately impressed by how smoothly these #11 blades glide through tough materials like foam board, leather, and even thick cardboard without causing any frustrating tears or rips. The sharpness is genuinely impressive, making them a reliable choice for detailed scrapbooking or stencil work. One detail that really sets this set apart is the included storage case, which keeps every single blade lubricated and organized so they don't rust or get lost in a messy drawer. They swap into standard craft knife handles effortlessly, making them a seamless upgrade for any serious maker's toolkit.

What We Like
SK-5 high carbon steel
Smooth, tear-free cutting
Lubricated storage case
Easy blade replacement
Versatile material compatibility

Excel Blades Soft Grip Craft Knife Set, Soft Grip Fine Point Angled Blades for Precision Cutting & Trimming, Multi-Purpose Hobby, Scrapbooking, and Cr...

Excel Blades Soft Grip Precision Craft Knife Set

4.7 (100 ratings)
EXCEL BLADES 16023-3 5.75 X 0.30 X 0.30 Inches 0.10 Pounds

Reviews for EXCEL BLADES (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • LIGHTWEIGHT PRECISION KNIFE: Excel Blade's K18 reusable Soft Grip Craft Knife is an excellent tool for scrapbooking, model kits, crafting, and art projects, providing effortless precision and meticulous cuts
  • MULTI-PURPOSE: This 3-pack can be used for various crafting and design projects, cutting lightweight materials such as vinyl art, heat transfer paper, masking film, paper, plastic, wood, cloth, and decals
  • ERGONOMIC SOFT GRIP HANDLE: The light yet sturdy aluminum body and soft, anti-slip rubberized comfort grip handle of this craft knife are designed for comfort and a perfect fit on a wide variety of replacement blades
  • SAFE AND SECURE DESIGN: A specialized four-jaw screw securely retains the double-honed blade for enhanced security and stability while the shatter-proof protective cover ensures safe storage
  • MADE IN THE USA: For the past 30 years, our family-owned and operated business has been manufacturing high-quality knives, blades, and precision tools that are trusted by artists, designers, craftsmen, hobbyists, and industrial workers
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Excel Blades 9.80 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume a lightweight tool lacks the stability needed for serious work, but these Excel Blades K18 knives prove that agility is often more important than sheer weight. I found that the aluminum body provides a surprisingly sturdy foundation, while the rubberized soft grip prevents that frustrating hand fatigue during long scrapbooking or model-building sessions. The four-jaw screw design is a standout, keeping the double-honed blades incredibly secure so you aren't fighting wobbles mid-cut. Whether you are slicing through delicate vinyl art or tougher materials like thin wood and cloth, the precision is remarkably consistent. It is a rare find to get a family-owned, USA-made toolset that balances ergonomic comfort with this level of professional-grade control.

What We Like
Ergonomic soft grip
Secure four-jaw screw
Lightweight aluminum body
Shatter-proof protective cover
Made in USA
#5

Excel Blades Sharp Hobby Knife Set, Precision Cutting Tool Set for Vinyl, Paper, Wood, Leather, Craft Knife Bulk Set Includes Light To Heavy Duty Kniv...

Excel Blades Precision Hobby Knife Set with Wooden Chest

4.5 (168 ratings)
EXCEL BLADES 44282 8.12 X 6.62 X 5.50 Inches 0.50 Pounds

Reviews for EXCEL BLADES (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Complete set of essential hobby knives to own, 100% Made in the USA and includes Excel K1, K2, and K5 knives with 13 assorted blades ideal for precision cutting, trimming, and stripping of wood, cardboard, paper, plastic, cloth, film, foam, and more
  • Knives range from light duty (K1), to medium duty (K2), and heavy duty (K5), making them incredibly versatile in fitting all standard craft knife blades including Xacto Knife
  • Each knife within our kit includes a 4 jaw aluminum chuck for a more secure blade positioning and hold than your standard hobby knife. With a snug fitting, shatter resistant safety cap to protect blade during storage
  • Perfect gift idea for hobbyists, artists, designers, or those with interest in arts and crafts applications – wood carving, scrapbooking, model kits, and more
  • Set comes in a molded plastic tray that sits inside a beautiful wooden chest and includes one (1) K1 Light Duty Knife, one (1) K2 Medium Duty Knife, one (1) K5 Heavy Duty Knife, and thirteen (13) assorted super sharp standard hobby blades for cutting, trimming, carving, and chiseling
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Excel Blades 9.80 Yes Yes Yes

Serious makers and precision artists require the tiered versatility found in this Excel Blades toolkit to handle everything from delicate paper filigree to rugged wood carving. Unlike standard single-purpose kits, this set provides a tiered approach by including K1 light-duty, K2 medium-duty, and K5 heavy-duty knives, ensuring you always have the right amount of leverage for the job. The standout feature is the four-jaw aluminum chuck on each handle, which offers a significantly more secure blade hold than the flimsy plastic mechanisms found in cheaper alternatives. Whether you are stripping film or chiseling foam, the thirteen assorted blades and the protective wooden storage chest make this a professional-grade staple for any workbench. It is a rare find to get such specialized, American-made tools in one cohesive, well-organized package.

What We Like
Four-jaw aluminum chuck
Three duty levels
Thirteen assorted blades
Made in USA
Wooden storage chest

Smb #23 Precision Double Edged Hobby Blades (5/25/100/300 Pcs) (5)

SMB HASK0162

Reviews for SMB (PM Score)

5.4 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • For medium duty hobby knives. Has a 3/8" shank
  • Manufactured from the highest quality carbon steel
  • Use these blades for very precise cutting and trimming of cardstock, plastic, light- to medium-density woods, and other light- to medium-weight materials
  • Blades fit X-acto, Excel, Huron, and other leading medium duty hobby knives
  • Comparable to X-acto X226 X626. Excel 10023 20023 21023 22623
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
SMB Industries 9.61 Yes Yes Yes

LinaLife 100pcs #11 Replacement Hobby Classic Fine Point Blades high Stainless steel Craft Knife Carbon Steel Craft Fine Knife Blades Hobby Knife Cutt...

LinaLife 100-Pack Carbon Steel #11 Hobby Blades

LINALIFE

Reviews for LINALIFE (PM Score)

5.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Pack of (100) #11 double honed blade.Most popular hobby knife blade, Made of carbon steel with a fine point straight edge for trimming wood, plastic, paper and leather
  • Sharper than average blades, these double honed hobby blades have a strong tip and flex without breaking to keep their edge and tip longer, and are coated in a thin layer of oil for rust protection.The #11 creates a magnificent cut with ease. This American tool is ideal for scrap-booking, paper crafts, model kits, and more! The #11 Blade is dependably strong as it is crafted from Carbon Steel. They are double honed for a sturdier ultra fine point tip. They are also able to slightly flex without
  • Quality materials: these hobby blades are made of quality carbon steel, strong and rust resistance, and can be repeated to use Compatibility: fits for many medium duty craft knives including , #11 replacement blade.
  • Versatile replacement blades fit all standard light to medium duty craft knives including for Knife.quick accessibility and non-interrupted work flow Feature
  • The Excel Blades #11 Blade is the one that started it all. The go-to tool for beginners and pros alike. Designed with the artists comfort in mind. Item
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
NieLei Inc 6.82 Yes Yes Yes

Serious crafters and model builders need this massive 100-piece bulk pack to ensure their creative momentum never hits a snag. These LinaLife #11 blades are a significant upgrade over standard hobby options because they are double honed, giving you an ultra-fine point that actually holds its shape. I found that the carbon steel construction offers the perfect balance of strength and flexibility. They can bend slightly under pressure without snapping, which is a lifesaver when trimming delicate leather or intricate paper patterns. The thin layer of protective oil is a smart touch to prevent rust while sitting in your toolbox. Whether you are working on scrapbooking or detailed sculpture, having this many high-quality, sharp replacements on hand makes professional-grade precision feel effortless.

What We Like
Double honed tips
Durable carbon steel
Rust protection coating
Flexible blade design
Bulk 100-count pack

SMB #104 Precision 3/4" Concave Curved Carving Blades (5/25/100/300) (5)

SmB Precision Concave Carving Replacement Blades

SMB HASK0167-5

Reviews for SMB (PM Score)

3.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • #104 medium 3/4" cutting blade radius concave carving replacement blades
  • Manufactured from the highest quality carbon steel
  • For medium and heavy duty hobby knives. Has a 5/16" shank
  • Blades fit X-acto, Excel, Huron, and other leading light duty hobby knives
  • Comparable to X-acto X104. Excel 20104
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
SMB Industries 9.59 No No No

You are halfway through a detailed wood carving project when your edge suddenly dulls, threatening to ruin the smooth concave sweep of your work. These SmB #104 replacement blades are designed specifically for those high-stakes moments in medium to heavy-duty hobby work. Crafted from high-quality carbon steel, they provide the structural integrity needed to maintain a precise 3/4" radius during deep carving tasks. The 5/16" shank ensures they seat securely in your existing toolkit, offering seamless compatibility with leading hobby knives like Excel or Huron. Whether you are refining a sculpture or working on intricate craft details, these blades deliver a reliable, professional-grade cut that mirrors the performance of premium industry standards without breaking the bank.

What We Like
High-quality carbon steel
Concave carving radius
5/16 inch shank
Medium duty performance
Universal hobby knife fit

Linalife 100Pcs Wholesale Hobby Blade #11 #11B Obtuse Angle Replacement Stainless Steel Hobby Blade Carbon Steel Craft Knife Blades Hobby Knife Cutting Tools For Art Cutting, Sculpture, Scrapbooks

LINALIFE

Reviews for LINALIFE (PM Score)

2.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Pack of (100) #11 obtuse angle double honed blade.Most popular hobby knife blade, Made of carbon steel with a fine point straight edge for trimming wood, plastic, paper and leather
  • Sharper than average blades, these double honed hobby blades have a strong tip and flex without breaking to keep their edge and tip longer, and are coated in a thin layer of oil for rust protection.#11 obtuse angle magnificent cut with ease. This American tool is ideal for scrap-booking, paper crafts, model kits, and more! The #11 obtuse angle Blade is dependably strong as it is crafted from Carbon Steel. They are double honed for a sturdier ultra fine point tip. able to slightly flex without
  • Quality materials: these hobby blades are made of quality carbon steel, strong and rust resistance, and can be repeated to use Compatibility: fits for many medium duty craft knives including , #11 obtuse angle replacement blade.
  • Versatile replacement blades fit all standard light to medium duty craft knives including for Knife.quick accessibility and non-interrupted work flow Feature
  • The Excel Blades #11 obtuse angle Blade is the one that started it all. The go-to tool for beginners and pros alike. Designed with the artists comfort in mind. Item
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
NieLei Inc 6.87 Yes Yes Yes

Excel K1#1 Art Knife With Safety Cap

EXCEL 18001 0.25 Pounds

Reviews for EXCEL (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Use this Excel K1 aluminum knife for art, craft and drafting
  • 5 inch long knife with non-slip handle
  • Made of aluminum and comes with a safety cap
  • The 4 jaw chuck keeps blades secure. Accepts a variety of replacement blades.
  • Made in the USA
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Hyatt's All Things Creative 9.94 No No No

Linalife 100Pcs Wholesale Excel Hobby Blade #2 Replacement Stainless Steel Hobby Blade Carbon Steel Craft Knife Blades Hobby Knife Cutting Tools For Art Cutting, Sculpture, Scrapbooks

LINALIFE

Reviews for LINALIFE (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Pack of (100) #2 double honed blade.Most popular hobby knife blade, Made of carbon steel with a fine point straight edge for trimming wood, plastic, paper and leather
  • Sharper than average blades, these double honed hobby blades have a strong tip and flex without breaking to keep their edge and tip longer, and are coated in a thin layer of oil for rust protection.The #2 creates a magnificent cut with ease. This American tool is ideal for scrap-booking, paper crafts, model kits, and more! The #2 Blade is dependably strong as it is crafted from Carbon Steel. They are double honed for a sturdier ultra fine point tip. They are also able to slightly flex without
  • Quality materials: these hobby blades are made of quality carbon steel, strong and rust resistance, and can be repeated to use Compatibility: fits for many medium duty craft knives including , #2 replacement blade.
  • Versatile replacement blades fit all standard light to medium duty craft knives including for Knife.quick accessibility and non-interrupted work flow Feature
  • The Excel Blades #2 Blade is the one that started it all. The go-to tool for beginners and pros alike. Designed with the artists comfort in mind. Item
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
NieLei Inc 6.87 Yes Yes Yes
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best excel blades art blades

A Guide to Selecting the Best excel blades art blades

Understanding Blade Geometry and Profiles

The most critical decision in selecting an art blade is matching the tip geometry to your intended task. Most high-end art blades fall into three primary categories: pointed, angled, and heavy-duty. For fine detail work—such as paper filigree or stencil cutting—you require a needle-point profile. These blades are designed to enter the material with minimal resistance, allowing for sweeping curves and microscopic details. Conversely, if your work involves thicker substrates like leather or thick corrugated cardboard, a standard pointed blade may snap under lateral pressure. In these instances, look for blades with a slightly broader spine or a reinforced tip that can withstand higher downward force without losing its edge.

Material Composition: Carbon Steel vs. Stainless

When browsing for art blades, you will frequently encounter the choice between high-carbon steel and stainless steel. High-carbon steel is the preferred choice for purists because it can be honed to an incredibly fine, razor-like edge that stays sharp longer during intensive sessions. However, carbon steel is more susceptible to oxidation. If you work in a humid environment or leave blades exposed, they may develop tiny spots of rust. Stainless steel blades offer much better corrosion resistance and are easier to maintain, but they often lack the extreme 'bite' and edge retention found in carbon-based alternatives. For most precision art applications, the superior sharpness of carbon steel outweighs the maintenance requirements, provided you store them in a dry environment.

Edge Retention and Durability Factors

An art blade is only as good as its ability to maintain a consistent cutting angle. As a blade dulls, you instinctively apply more pressure, which leads to slips and loss of control—a major safety hazard in precision work. When evaluating blades, consider the thickness of the metal. Thinner blades are excellent for delicate slicing but are prone to bending if they encounter a knot in wood or a dense layer of polymer clay. Thicker blades offer more stability and are better for 'push cutting,' where you are driving the blade through a material. Always look for blades that feature a consistent bevel. An uneven bevel will cause the blade to wander off your intended line, ruining your precision.

Compatibility and Replacement Frequency

Before committing to a bulk pack of blades, ensure the profile matches your existing hardware. Art blades are designed to fit specific utility knife handles, ranging from small X-Acto style grips to larger hobby knives. A blade that is too small for your handle will wobble, while one that is too large will pose a safety risk. Furthermore, treat blades as consumables rather than permanent tools. Even the highest quality Excel blades will eventually undergo microscopic rolling of the edge. A professional workflow involves replacing the blade the moment you feel any increased resistance, rather than trying to 'force' a dull edge through your medium. Investing in high-quality replacement packs ensures that you are never caught mid-project with a blunt instrument.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Excel Blades Art Blades before you buy.

Art blades are designed for precision and fine motor control, featuring thinner, sharper profiles for intricate cutting, whereas utility knives are built for heavy-duty material separation and structural tasks.

Look for high-carbon steel construction, which maintains a razor edge longer, and a balanced weight distribution that prevents hand fatigue during detailed work.

Yes. Thin, lightweight blades are ideal for delicate paper slicing to prevent tearing, while heavier-duty, thicker blades provide the stability needed to cut through dense cardstock without bending.

You should replace blades as soon as you notice any resistance or 'dragging' during a cut. Using a dull blade forces more pressure, which increases the risk of slipping and injury.

Refillable holders are generally superior for artists because they allow you to switch blade shapes (like pointed vs. angled) based on the specific task, offering more versatility.

Always use a dedicated blade storage case or a magnetic strip. Never leave loose blades in a drawer or desk organizer where they can be accidentally touched.

Many precision blades are excellent for fine detailing in polymer or air-dry clay, but ensure the blade is stainless steel to prevent rust from moisture in the clay.

Black coatings are often anti-glare treatments that reduce light reflection, which is helpful when working under bright studio lamps to prevent eye strain.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Excel Blades Art Blades

5,798 Reviews Analyzed
11 Products Evaluated
6.0 Avg PM Score
5 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Excel Blades Art Blades Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Excel Blades 4 (36.4%)
  2. 02 Linalife 3 (27.3%)
  3. 03 Smb 2 (18.2%)
  4. 04 Excel 1 (9.1%)
  5. 05 Nicpro 1 (9.1%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 5,798 reviews on Excel Blades Art Blades, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the categories. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Excel Blades Art Blades priced around $10.22.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 11 Excel Blades Art Blades for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right blades Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Excel Blades Art Blades to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.