How to Cut Plexiglass at Home

Cutting plexiglass at home instead of having the store do it for you allows you to measure and get exact fits. Plexiglass is much safer than glass, since it is not really glass, but a clear, hard plastic. It is much more durable and break resistant then glass. It can be a little more expensive then glass, but in the long run it will last longer for your projects. Following proper steps ensures a successful, clean cut.

Things You'll Need

• Plexiglass cutter
• Measuring tape
• Grease pen
• Jigsaw (optional)

Instructions

1. Measure the size needed and transfer that measurement onto the sheet of plexiglass. Mark the measurements with your grease pen.

2. Place the plexiglass on a hard-surfaced work bench or table. Use your plexiglass cutter (see Resources) and slowly follow the marked line, starting away from you, pushing slightly into the plexiglass and pulling towards you. Repeat the process five times with the cutter, beginning away from you and pulling toward you.

3. Cut curves, as needed. If you need to make a curved cut, your plexiglass needs to be thicker than 1/8 inch. Use a jigsaw with a fine-toothed blade to cut the curved shaped you desire.

4. Position your plexiglass on the edge of a table with the scored side up and, starting at one end, push down until the plexiglass snaps loose. Continue slowly down the scored line to snap off the piece that is not needed.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Plexiglass cutting tool