A dummy knife, a scalpel, a round cutter - we figure out which knives are suitable for different types of needlework.
Knives for handicrafts come in different sizes, shapes and different qualities. You are engaged in cutting and sewing, working with leather and suede, scrapbooking or carving on paper and cardboard - choose the knife that suits you (or several).
Breadboard knife
The most common and well-known option. Dummy knives come in many sizes, from fairly large, with wide blades, to narrow. Wide knives are convenient for more "large-scale" work or for cutting something thick and durable (several layers of paper, thick cardboard, thick leather and so on), narrow are suitable for working with thin materials. The case of model knives is made either of plastic, or metal, or rubber - the second and third options are usually more expensive, but such a knife is stronger and will last longer. The most durable mock knives do not have plastic parts at all, however, they are rare. For knives of different sizes, you can buy sets of spare blades and, if necessary, change them.
Scalpel knife
Knives-scalpels for needlework are usually arranged on the principle of a collet pencil. Their body-handle is made of durable metal, and the sharpest blade in the form, like a scalpel, is securely clamped by a special device.Such knives are usually sharper than bread makers and it is more convenient to work with them. Knives, scalpels, you can cut durable, solid materials, plus - perform very thin, jewelry work (for example, cut lace patterns on paper). Scalpels are usually more expensive than mock knives, but last longer due to the strength of the body and the quality of the blade. By the way, sets of blades are sold both with the scalpels themselves and separately.
How to sew a patchwork blanket
Round cutter
It is also called a cutting knife, circular, rotary or roller. As the name implies, such a knife is intended primarily for cutting fabric. It’s very convenient for him to work: the blade of such a knife is round and rotating, it acts on the principle of a round pizza knife. The fabric under such a knife does not move, it is cut quickly and accurately, almost without effort - the main thing is to learn how to handle it.
The advantages of a circular knife are the ability to perfectly perform long and rounded cuts. Cons - it’s difficult for them to make small or intersecting cuts. But a sharp roller knife cuts through the fabric perfectly in several layers, without shifting them (by the way, this also applies to paper cutting). It is very convenient for cutting fabrics, especially for patchwork, for scrapbooking.
In addition to circular knives with straight blades, you can find knives with a gear roller, they give a zigzag cut. The size of the cutting disc, the knives are different: small more convenient for small cuts, large - for large-scale work. If desired, you can buy a special device for sharpening circular knives and spare blades.
Needlework mat: why is it needed and what is good?
Attention:
When working with all kinds of knives, always use a solid backing so as not to damage the table. Ideally, you should buy a special cutting mat.
