How to Score Plexiglass
Plexiglass, also referred to as acrylic glass or plastic glass, is a glass-like product made from acrylic resin. It is often used instead of glass in craft and building projects because it is less expensive and less fragile to work with. Plexiglass is also popular for crafting projects because it is flexible, even bendable, and comes in many colors, tints and thicknesses. However, it is easily scratched, which is why it comes covered with a protective paper. Scoring Plexiglass, which simply means to cut into but not through it, is the first step in achieving a clean, straight cut.
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Things You'll Need
- Safety goggles
- Protective gloves
- Yardstick
- Grease pencil
- Plexiglass cutter
Instructions
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1
Lay the Plexiglass, paper side up, on a firm, level table such as a work bench or kitchen table you have covered with a protective cloth.
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2
Use the yardstick and grease pencil to mark your cuts on the paper.
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3
Cut through the paper and into the Plexiglass with your Plexiglass cutter. A Plexiglass cutter is a sharp metal point with a handle attached to it. Trace the lines five to 10 times with your cutter until you are certain you have an adequate score line. To finish the cut, place the score on the edge of your work table and apply downward pressure. The Plexiglass should snap easily on the scored line.
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Tips & Warnings
To keep the score lines as straight as possible, use the yard stick as a straightedge to guide your cut.
If you are working with a large piece of Plexiglass, clamp it to the table before applying pressure to complete the cut.
Plexiglass can chip and leave sharp edges. Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear when cutting Plexiglass.
