Some tips I found useful below. Please get in touch if you would like to share any of your own tips.
90 Degree Joint
A basic cardboard joint to get you started. Also called a ‘lap joint’.
Curved Joint
This technique is better than just ‘bending’ the card – as it gives a smooth profile.
Concave/Convex Joint
An extension of the curved joint in both directions. [video could be shorter, but you get the idea!]
Creating Accurate Folds
As if Biro Pens weren’t great enough – use them for folding when they run out. Also shows how to use a Rotary Cutter.
Scalpels Vs Craft Knives
When best to use either tool. With a brief explanation of why blades are different in the first place.
Straight Cutting
Sounds patronising, I know, but I you’ll be glad to saw it if you have less than perfectly straight lines on your mounting card, etc.
Safe Cutting
Avoid breaking blades. (I say this as someone who has had to remove a shard from my forehead). Wear goggles too!
Blade Change
Ever tried to remove a broken/glued in/stuck blade – slipped – and took a slice out of your finger? Never again.
Storing Your Blade
Good tip I learned from my internship in California.
Glue for Modelling
Seemingly obvious – but hopefully you’ll learn a few ‘tricks of the trade’.
Double Sided Tape
A whole world of Adhesive Tape. [I need to get out more, yes].
Correcting Hot Melt Joints
Clean and simple way to re-melt the glue and re-position correctly, can be done with any of the 3 tools shown.
Sanding and Finishing
With a bit of organisation, you’ll find yourself getting really good finished on plastic, foam – and your nails.
Hack Saw vs Razor Saw
When best to use either tool. If you don’t own a Razor saw, you probably will after watching this.
Using Digital Calipers
I’m not on commission, but these are invaluable, even if you don’t think you’re that ‘precise’ – they are just an excellent work tool.
Plastic Score and Snap
A simple technique to cut thin plastic – without need for a saw, etc.
Plastic – Creating a Bend (with heat)
Using a heat-gun or even a hair-dryer, simple curves can be added to your design.
