Cleanly cutting scraps

[freezewindow]

Hey guys, 

I have recently decided to get back into working with leather after not having done it for about 6 years (it's just too fun).

for my first project i'd like to get myself a big piece of sewn together scraps (in the picture) of about 130cm by 160cm (which is basically the measurements of how it's laid out in the picture)

now, obviously i need to cut the pieces into shapes that fit together, when i try to do that the leather moves around alot, and figuring out how best to get this stuff to fit seems like a daunting task, has anyone done something similar and can give me some advice ?

 

[brmax]

I am extremely happy with the Olfa 60mm rotary knife.  I do think this can be another tool for your task there. Initially after hearing almost the same I got interested. There was a good discount coupon ( like 40% off ) for the craft store and this was the boost. I can and will say the blade out of the box is excellent.

With smaller corner cuts a different or smaller diameter blade would be a benefit. ( both my and family member opinion )

The Fiskars brand I have acquired has a smaller 45mm diameter blade.

 I still have both with original blades installed this Fiskars blade is not as sharp period, and this at its beginning. Although the handle does give a better sense of safety, with its style, but if more pressure is required this safety sense aspect is lost. Just my opinion ( i do have extra blades )

For reference: olfa usage, 2 year, 30 yards of cuts, marine canvas, leather trimming.   

 As above just refference:  fiskars usage, 4 months, first 5 yards thin cotton fabric 

I think these rotary blades are, just a tool and have a place. Its my best opinion a couple lengths of protective straightedge can be a great addition with these. There are some benefits if the straight edge has a gripp type bottom surface. 

 

Good day 

Floyd

Edited May 3, 2018 by brmax

[fredk]

Get a piece of right-angled aluminium or steel, i.e. this shape: L, get a piece about 25mm on each arm of the L and about 600mm long. Use this as your straight edge; placing it with the open V on the leather [like this : A]. You now have a raised part to grip and push down with. Use a rotary blade cutter like Floyd suggests. With thin leather I do not start the cut at the edge, I start it in some, maybe a few cms, then I do that uncut bit after the rest.

[bikermutt07]

I like the handle on the "realeather" hobby lobby rotary knife. When I finally did a blade change, I had to try the olfa blade. Fit was fine and way sharper.

The realeather version sells for 10 bucks I think. Pair that with an ifla blade from the get go and you have a winning combination for 20 bucks.

I believe that is cheaper then going all olfa. And like I said, I like the handle better.

[BDAZ]

I find rotary knives remarkable. My last project was hanging decorated strips of bison in a hipster bar (1 1/2 sides) and all done with a rotary 60mm blade. I buy my blades at Michaels or JoAnn's when they have 50% coupons. I also have a sharpener which does a good job and of course I strop regularly.

I can also use the rotary for trimming the edges of 2 pieces of 5-6oz plus lining glued together. It gives me a super clean cut and I can shave off 1mm if necessary.

Use on of the Tandy leather shears for the close quarter cutting.

 

 

Bob

Edited May 6, 2018 by BDAZ