for scalpels and craft knives in model making
Sharp blades are essential for precise and clean cuts in model making. In this category, you will find replacement blades for scalpels as well as 9 mm and 18 mm craft knives, which are specially designed for precise cutting work in paper, cardboard, plastic or foam sheets.
For fine detail work in model making, scalpel blades in sizes #10, #11 and #15 are frequently used. The #11 blade, with its pointed geometry, is particularly suitable for precise cuts and engravings. #10 blades (similar to a craft knife) allow for controlled, longer cuts, whilst #15 blades are ideal for small radii and curved shapes.
For general cutting work, cutters with 9 mm or 18 mm blades – suitable for all standard cutters on the market – are usually used. We recommend exclusively snap-off segment blades, as originally developed by OLFA. By snapping off a segment, a new, sharp cutting edge is available at all times. This system is particularly economical: a box of 10, each containing 8 segments, costs from around €0.92.
The cutter blades are made from different tool steels depending on the application. SK2 steel offers a very sharp cutting edge for precise model-making work, whilst SK5 steel is more robust and suitable for heavier-duty cuts in cardboard, greyboard or foam sheets.
A practical tip from the world of model making: instead of cutting with great force, it is better to guide the knife lightly along a cutting ruler two to four times. This results in significantly neater cut edges and less strain on the blade.
When working with 9 mm craft knives, many model makers prefer to use 30° blades. The steeper blade geometry creates a particularly fine and precise cutting tip, which is ideal for exact cuts and detailed work.
With high-quality replacement blades and the correct cutting technique, exact cuts, clean edges and precise components can be reliably achieved in model making.
