|
|
 |
USING A FOAM CUTTER
HOW DO YOU PUT IT TOGETHER?
 The
foam cutter is a simple battery powered device. Two "D" batteries
supply the juice necessary for operation. There are five parts to
the cutter: the batteries, spring, cap, cutting wire, and the main
body. You will have to assemble the foam cutter before you use it
for the first time.
- Wrap and knot the wire around the metal connecting loop in the
main body and pull the wire taut around the metal arm above the
loop.
- The metal arm has a small niche for the cutting wire to rest
in. Use this niche to your advantage as you pull the wire taut.
- Once the cutting wire is tight, wrap the excess wire around
and around the metal arm.
- Finally, twist the last bit of wire into a knot to secure it
upon the metal arm. Insert two "D" batteries in the body, followed
by the spring, and twist on the cap to set up the power source.
Switch the metal tab to "ON," and you are in business!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The two batteries in the handle of the cutter heat the cutting
wire when the tool is switched on. Once hot (in seconds!) the wire
slices through foam like the proverbial knife through butter. This
allows you to cut with an ease and precision not available through
the use of a hobby knife. It also creates interesting textures and
shapes that look complex but are achieved quite easily!
IS IT HARD TO USE?
In a word – no! Simply guide the cutting wire along, and
it smoothly cuts through the foam. There is really nothing to it!
Grab a few scrap pieces of foam to experiment with the many different
effects and cutting techniques that you can use. You will be a pro
in a matter of minutes!
|
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Foam cutters are fairly harmless, but please take a moment
to read through these safety guidelines.
Hot Wire.
When the tool is switched on, the wire will be HOT! Do
not touch it with your fingers or any other part of your body.
Take care where you place the tool while the wire is hot,
as it can burn through carpet or singe a tabletop.
Fumes.
While the foam cutter burns through foam, it produces
smoke and fumes. Always use the cutter in a well ventilated
area. Outside in a sheltered spot is best. If you're using
it inside, make sure the room is well ventilated – the
fresh air will do you good!
Turn it off!
Always remember to turn the foam cutter off when you're
not using it. Doing so will help preserve the batteries and
will prevent any accidents
with burning.
Be Gentle.
During operation, do not use excessive force when maneuvering
the foam cutter – the cutting wire is not indestructible!
It can and will snap off, and you may get hurt, so please
take it easy and be patient.
|
Back to Modeling Tools
page
|
|
