Knife Tutorial (Sharps 1 Certification)

Overview

This tutorial will go over everything needed to become Sharps level 1 certified.

You will cut the following pieces:

A 3” square of 1/16” chip board with an 18mm Olfa knife.

A 3” square of fabric with a 45mm Olfa Rotary knife.

You will also learn how to replace dull blades on both types of knives:

18mm Olfa knife.

45mm Olfa Rotary knife.

Safety

This documentation is not a substitute for proper training and sign-off. If you don't know how to do something, don't guess! Ask someone who is trained and cleared for use on the tool for help.

A sharp knife is safer than a dull knife.

A sharp knife needs less force cut.
Less force means more controlled cutting.
When you determine a blade needs to be replaced, use a sharps container for the dull blades.

Cut from top to bottom, NEVER from side to side.
Put more force on the straight edge than the knife.

It is important to secure the straight edge to your cutting surface.
You should NOT need lots of force on the knife. Let the knife do the work! See above.

Use the right kind of straight edge.

If cutting with a utility blade.

Use a metal straight edge, DO NOT USE A PLASTIC RULER!!! The knife will jump the edge and potentially cut your fingers.
Use a non-slip Straight edge. There should be rubber or cork on the bottom. If it doesn't, DON’T CUT WITH IT! It is unsafe and could ruin your cut.

If cutting with a rotary knife.

Use a metal straight edge with a non-slip backing like rubber or cork.
A thick plastic ruler specifically designed for fabric is fine. Flimsy plastic rulers are still unsafe.

Cutting in a single pass vs. multiple passes.

Depends on the toughness and thickness of the material.
For paper, one pass is fine.
For 1/16” chip, three to four passes. This is another reason you want to secure the straight edge down!

Cut on a sturdy work surface with a cutting mat.
18mm blade safety.

When exposing the blade, only show one to two score lengths.
Do not bend the blade. You may trigger an unwanted blade snap.
When you are done cutting, retract the knife. Make it drop safe. Always store it retracted.