How to Use an X-Acto Knife
The X-Acto knife is an extremely effective tool that is used to slice perfect shapes into paper, foam cardboard and many other malleable surfaces. People who are unfamiliar with this tool may not wield it properly, resulting in jagged lines, sloppy cuts and potential injuries. By taking the time to learn how to hold and cut with an X-Acto knife, craftsmen are able to make precise and accurate cuts.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Place a large cutting mat over the surface you plan on using the X-Acto blade on. The cutting mat protects your flat surfaces from the sharp blade and helps the X-Acto blade make clean cuts.
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2
Hold the X-Acto knife in your hand like a pencil with the blade facing down toward the material. Angle the blade to slide along a ruler in a straight line.
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3
Set the ruler flat on the surface and trace along the ruler's edge with the X-Acto knife. Put just enough pressure on the knife to cut the paper. If the blade becomes dull, you may have to press harder for effective results.
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4
Cut slowly and take your time. Rushing through a cut may ruin a line or result in an injury if you are careless with the razor-sharp X-Acto knife.
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5
Change the angle of the X-Acto knife and perform a few practice cuts on some scrap material to see what angle and pressure work best for you.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Always place the cap back on the X-Acto knife or retract the blade before putting it away.
