Fine Circle Cutter

Circles that will not come out freehand

Anyone recognizes a circle cut with a knife by eye at first glance: the circumference breaks into facets and the joint at the end does not meet. A circle cutter holds a point at the center and the blade travels at a constant distance from it, so the cut-out is regular and repeatable. An adjustable radius means that the same tool manages a disc a few millimeters across and a substantially larger opening.

When to reach for it

Most often while masking wheels, where the disc has to be covered and the rubber tire left free, or the other way round. It also serves well with circular vision ports, instrument panels, hatches and anywhere a disc is cut from sheet as a base for detail of your own. It is worked into masking tape, into film and into thin plastic, so it suits masking and building alike.

So that the cut is right the first time

Set the radius and try it on an offcut, and only then go onto the material you do not want to sacrifice. Do not press, but go round the circle several times lightly; the blade then does not leave its path and the edge stays smooth. Stand the center point firmly and do not let it travel while turning, otherwise the circle becomes a spiral. Have a cutting mat under the work; a cut tabletop or a hard surface ruins the edge faster than the cutting itself. You will recognize a blunted edge by a frayed rim, which not even a second pass will put right.

• An adjustable radius for small and larger circles
• A regular circumference without breaks and overlaps
• Usable in tape, film and thin sheet