Cutting Tight Curves

[Narles25]

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?

[Cyberthrasher]

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.

[Narles25]

I just tried that and I think you're right! Now I need to invest in more punches!

Thank You!

[Northmount]

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

[Tree Reaper]

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.

[immiketoo]

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.

[silverwingit]

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