Narles25 Report post Posted July 29, 2013 Hello, I was wondering what is the best tool to cut tight curves with? I'm using an x-acto knife with a no. 11 blade, a rotary cutter, leather sheers, and a standard utility blade. I'm having difficulty cutting tight curves into 3oz. leather. Is there a tool that would be a better fit for these types of cuts? Or is this just a skill level issue? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Cyberthrasher Report post Posted July 29, 2013 For inside curves you'll want to use a hole punch and then finish it off with an X-acto/craft knife. For outside curves, just cut off straight pieces bit by bit until it's curved. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Narles25 Report post Posted July 29, 2013 I just tried that and I think you're right! Now I need to invest in more punches! Thank You! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Northmount Report post Posted July 29, 2013 (edited) You are on the right track now. I bought 1/2, 5/8, 3/4 and 1" arch punches. Sure helps on the inside curves and for thumb notches on things like a business card sleeve. For outside curves, you can use a piece of 1/2, 3/4 and 1" conduit. Sharpen the outside edge for more then 90 degrees, then cut away the extra 270 degrees to make a punch with a 90 degree tooth, for trimming outside corners. You can use conduit for punches too, just a little more difficult to sharpen evenly all the way around. Tom Edited July 29, 2013 by northmount Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tree Reaper Report post Posted July 30, 2013 I use that same exacto knife but sharpen the blade on a wheel prior to cutting with it. You shouldn't have a problem cutting 3oz. with a sharp blade. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
immiketoo Report post Posted August 5, 2013 I use a round knife for all my tight curves. I haven't found one I can't cut with it yet. Punches work well too, but the cut is cleaner with a knife IMO. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
silverwingit Report post Posted August 5, 2013 (edited) Yes, I like the cut of a nice sharp knife as well. I find myself reaching for my "Clicker" or "Industrial" knife with the curved blade quite often when it comes to detailed work or tight curves. I strop that curve blade and keep it nice and sharp before any cut, just like I do with my round knives. The curved shape of the blade allows me to get into small spaces like making the cut for a Sam Browne button hole without accidentally nicking the wrong side of the hole or finishing the ends of the cuts on a belt slot on a holster without marring the ends of the punched end holes. Michelle http://springfieldleather.com/29302/Knife%2CIndustrial%2Cw-2-blades/ Edited August 5, 2013 by silverwingit Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
