The Productive Office

X-Acto knives are finite box cutters that a lot of people use when making models. Their blades are thinner and sharper than the blades on standard box cutters, so they are able to make more precise cuts on whatever it is they are being used for. You can use X-Acto knives to cut through foam board, chipboard, cardboard, and much more. It just depends on what you need to do. In order to ensure the best results from your X-Acto experiences, you need to learn how to use this tool properly. Here are some tips to help you when using an X-Acto knife.

Use a Ruler for Guidance

If you are trying to make a straight cut with an X-Acto, you need to have a ruler on hand to guide the cuts. Ideally, you need a steel ruler so you don’t cut the actual ruler during your project. If you’re cutting on something thick like foam core, make sure you hold the blade as vertical as possible. Otherwise you may cut along the ruler and still end up with an incorrect cut.

Replace the Blades Frequently

You will need to replace your blades on a regular basis if you want the cuts to come out as cleanly as possible. If you start to see the material curl up on the side, that is because the blade is no longer sharp. You have to change out blades after every few cuts to ensure a sharp looking line every time. That is why it is usually best to buy blades in bulk to avoid a huge bill when you do a project. If you can get a rhythm down for changing out your blade, you will be able to maintain a high level of craftsmanship throughout your project.

Avoid Excessive Pressure

When you start to cut something with the X-Acto, make sure to press lightly on it. You may have to go over the same line multiple times in order to do this, but that will keep the blade from warping as you work with it. If you have a warped blade, you will inevitably end up with a warped line on your board. As long as you can maintain a steady hand as you cut, your precision will look like perfection with an X-Acto.