Replies

1. 
   Colleen_Writt | Sep 22, 2001 04:30am | #1

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   Jacques I worked in a sail loft years ago and part of my job was trimming the"patches", to reinforce the corners of the sail. They were layered stacks of woven dacron (polyester) sail canvas.This was done by cutting along the marked line with a heated knife, similar to a soldering iron or woodburning tool. The blade
   was about half in inch long, and oval. The cutting surface was glass. Pressing firmly through the fabric with the blade, we slowly and evenly drew the blade along the cutting line. Stopping or drawing too slowly would melt the fabric and ruin the patch.
   Properly done, this not only cuts the fabric but seals the edge. My friend cuts nylon fabrics for hot air balloons and inflatable sculpture in the same way, but as his pieces are large, he has a masonite table rather than glass. Prolonged, full time work
   at this task can cause repetitive motion injury, also
   if you are heat cutting a great deal or polyester, there are toxic fumes, be aware of this and use adequate ventilation.
   Take care and best of luck with your project!
   Colleen