V.Ryan © 2021
They have a very sharp (razor sharp) blade, which slices through light materials with ease. They also slice through fingers with ease, if used incorrectly.
There are many types of blade, as seen below. Blades are selected for the material they are to cut and the type of cutting being carried out. Five of the most common blades types have been identified (below), for you.
Never, apply force to the blade directly (diagram with a cross). It is possible that the blade is the wrong way round, which would mean pressing against the razor sharp edge of the blade.
Always use a steel safety rule when using a craft knife.
1. Watch the demonstration by your teacher and follow all his / her instructions.
2. Concentrate fully when using a craft knife. One slip can lead to a serious and painful accident.
3. Only use a craft knife, if safer equipment (scissors, guillotine or a desk top trimmer) cannot be used.
4. Always use a safety ruler, keeping all fingers behind the safety edge.
5. If possible, use a craft knife with retractable blades. This means the blades can be ‘retracted’, when the craft knife is not in use (stored safely).
6. Only use blades that are sharp. A blunt blade will tend to slip, but it will still inflict serious injuries.
7. The materials being cut must be placed on a solid, stable surface. Use a cutting mat, placed underneath the material being cut. Never use a craft knife to cut materials on an unstable surface.
8. Always cut away from hands and fingers. Never cut towards yourself.
9. Keep hands and fingers behind the cutting edge / blade
10. When cutting, put light pressure on the craft knife and make a gentle, consistent cut. This can be repeated if necessary, until the material is cut through. Never put lots of pressure on the knife.
Accidents with craft knives happen when people are rushing their work, not concentrating fully or being distracted, not following teacher instructions, using a blunt blade, not using a safety ruler and being careless.
