How to Shave Upholstery Foam

You can use an electric carving knife to shave poyurethane upholstery foam.

Shaving upholstery foam requires an unusal cuttin tool. It dulls the blade on scissors. Also, scissors may accidentally cut out chunks of foam rather than shaving off layers. A utility knife may also cut out chunks of foams, instead of shaving it off. An electric carving knife is the best tool to use for shaving foam as you can easily maintain even pressure on the foam, making you less likely to accidentally cut into it.

Things You'll Need

• Chalk (optional)
• Permanent ink marker (optional)
• Electric carving knife

Instructions

1. Mark the area you want to shave with chalk or a permanent marker.

2. Hold the electric knife so the blade rests flat against the foam surface. Turn the knife on and start to press the blade gently into the foam. When you start to see foam dust on top of the electric knife, begin sliding it forward, but do not push into the foam. If you push deep into the foam you will cut it instead of shave it.

3. Repeat Step 2 as many times as necessary to get the desired upholstery foam shape. If you need to make a deep curve in the foam, cut almost to the desired depth, then shave to finish the curve.

References

• California Scientific: Modify Your Stock Seat
• Upholstery Supplies Guide: Looking for an Inexpensive Foam Cutter?

Resources

• PFA: Flexible Polyurethane Foam: Cutting Technologies