Re all the comments about knife trimming by those who find no problems, I
agree with all that has been said by those who have no problem, I would just
add- use a new blade and don't try to cut right through in one cut. Start
off with a gentle score, using a straight edge where possible, and make
several controlled sweeps with the blade, increasing the pressure as you
deepen the cut. You'll get a real clean job if you've timed it right. The
Permagrit rotary cutters do have their place with this project but are much
more messy in this particular application.
Brian Hutchinson
XS-357
----- Original Message -----
From: "Rick Sivier" <rick.sivier@btinternet.com>
Subject: RE: Secret to knife trimming
> I've found that a hooked, carpet-trimming blade works well as long as you
> wipe it clean with MEK between each cut to ensure that it stays sharp and
> clean. The main problem is catching the lay-up at the right time. Often
I
> will do a lay-up in the afternoon and it is still not quite ready for a
> knife trim when I go to bed and then I would resort to the Dremel with the
> permagrit wheel in the morning. You need to be a bit careful with the
> Dremel - make sure that the wheel is grinding the fibres down against the
> supporting edge or you can easily lift them, resulting in a rather ragged
> edge.
>
> Regards
>
> Rick
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-europa@aztec.houxou.com
> Subject: Secret to knife trimming
>
>
> What is the secret to knife trimming? I am using a utility knife to trim
at
> the leather stage. Try as I may, I am unable to make a clean cut without
> ripping the fibers or lifting the cloth. In fact, I don't quite understand
> how
> a knife can be used to cut cloth at all (cured or not). Scissors cut
cloth,
> while a knife rips cloth. Anyway, I ended up using a scissor to trim as
> close
> as possible (I can get within 1/4"), and decided to trim the rest with a
> dremel when everything is fully cured. So, what am I doing wrong? Thanks!
>
>
> CFII
> Europa #A178
>
>
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