Synthetic cork (Styrofoam or polystyrene foam foam) can be difficult to cut because it is quite brittle and often results in uneven results. Use these tips to cut synthetic cork so you get smooth, even edges.
Step
Step 1. Slice the marking line on the synthetic cork to get a neat cut line
- Use a sharp, thin object to penetrate the cork and produce a straight line of cut. Apply pressure evenly and make grooves in the synthetic cork using a credit card, key, butter knife, or other sharp, thin object.
- Break the synthetic cork along the cut line. For best results, position the cork on the table so that the sliced line on the cork is parallel to the edge of the tabletop. Press down gently for a neat fracture. If necessary, remove excess foam with a serrated kitchen knife or craft knife.
Step 2. Use a wax-coated serrated kitchen knife to cut the synthetic cork
- Coat the knife with wax by rubbing the entire blade of the knife several times with wax. To prevent wax color from smearing the cork, use white wax.
- Cut synthetic cork with a serrated knife in a long sawing motion. Press the knife firmly and evenly during cutting to prevent the synthetic cork from breaking or crumbling.
Step 3. Cut the synthetic cork with an electric kitchen knife
Use an electric kitchen knife, such as a engraving knife or fish fillet knife, to make neat cuts on synthetic cork.
Place the electric knife along the desired cutting line. Don't put too much pressure on the electric knife, but let the serrated blade cut through the synthetic cork smoothly
Step 4. Use a craft knife to cut the synthetic cork
A craft knife is good for cutting small, thin strips of cork, but it should not be used for cutting cork that is more than 2 inches (5 cm) thick. In contrast to serrated knives, which break down synthetic cork, craft knives tend to crush or press against synthetic cork. Because of this, thick cork may deform or become uneven if cut with a craft knife.
- Use a craft knife for small, precise cuts. This knife can also be used to make oblique cuts and v-cuts (v-shapes) on cork.
- Cut the synthetic cork using a craft knife in small, steady motions. Make shallow cut marks on the cork. After the first cut, use a craft knife to cut multiple times so that the cut deepens until the synthetic cork splits completely.
- Change the blade frequently when cutting synthetic cork. A dull blade will result in a rough, uneven cut in the cork.
Step 5. Use a hand saw to cut the synthetic cork
Compass saws, coping saws, and hacksaws can make straight cuts on synthetic cork. Do not use a saw with a flexible blade as it is easy to rock on the soft cork so the cuts are uneven.
Cut the synthetic cork using a long sawing motion. Apply even pressure to the saw so that the synthetic cork does not crumble
Step 6. Cut the synthetic cork with a power saw
Jigsaws, band saws, and scroll saws are commonly used for chopping wood, as well as for cutting synthetic cork. The power saw is suitable for cutting large and thick cork.
Follow the instructions for using the saw you are using. You should always wear safety glasses when using a power saw to cut synthetic cork
Step 7. Use a hot wire cutter
Hot wire cutters are usually sold at craft or home improvement stores. These cutters work by melting cork using heated wire, resulting in a smooth cut edge. This tool is great for creating shapes on synthetic cork.
Press the hot wire cutter consistently along the desired line of cut. You must be very careful when using hot wire cutters as these wires are very hot and can cause burns
Tips
- To make various shapes of synthetic cork, we recommend using cookie cutters. Press the cookie cutter on a sheet of cork that is up to 1.5 cm thick.
- To smooth the rough edges of synthetic cork, rub the rough area with another piece of synthetic cork.
- To protect your work surface, use a cutting board when cutting synthetic cork.
Warning
- Hot wire cutters are very hot and can cause burns. Do not allow children to use this appliance.
- Wear a dust mask when using a power saw. Power saws can produce “cork powder” which is similar to sawdust, but can be irritating if inhaled.
- You can use heated wire. Take a piece of thin wire, such as copper wire. Prepare boiling water in a bowl or glass and soak the wire in boiling water for 4-5 minutes. Put on gloves and take the wire from both ends, then cut the synthetic cork in an up and down motion.
- Be careful when cutting synthetic cork. Cutting tools are very sharp and can cause injury. If you are cut, seek medical attention immediately.
