Leather cutting straight edge is a must-have tool for any serious leatherworker.
In this article, we will discuss what a leather cutting straight edge is, what they are used for, the different types of leather cutting straight edges available, as well as how to choose the right one for your needs.
We will also go over the basic steps involved in using a leather cutting straight edge, as well as some tips and tricks for getting the most out of yours.
What Is A Leather Cutting Straight Edge?
A leather cutting straight edge is a tool that is used to cut leather along a straight line. They come in a variety of sizes and lengths, but all serve the same basic purpose.
Leather cutting straight edges can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or plastic.
The leather cutting straight edge is simply referred to as a cutting edge. It is also marketed as a ruler reason that it is used to make precise cuts.
The cutting edge is placed on the leather, and a sharp knife is then run along the length of the ruler to create a clean, straight cut.
Types Of Leather Cutting Straight Edges
There are two main types of leather cutting straight edges: a regular ruler and an actual edge cutter.
The Regular Ruler
The ruler is the most basic and common type of leather cutting straight edge. It is typically made from wood, metal, or plastic and comes in a variety of different sizes and lengths.
Your everyday ruler can typically be used for making straight cuts on lighter-weight leathers. They can also be used for tracing patterns onto the leather before cutting them out.
These are your everyday ruler and usually do not have any cork baking. These rulers comparatively are generally shorter than an actual leather cutting straight edge tool.
Leather Cutting Straight Edge
The leather cutting straight edge is very similar to a regular ruler, but it’s more specialized for the task of cutting leather.
A leather cutting straight edge will come with a cork-backed or lined side. This is to help prevent scratches and marks on your work surface as you are cutting.
Although you can find straight edges with measure marks on them, it usually does not come with any.
Personally, I prefer straight edges with measure marks because it makes it easier to cut leather precisely to the size I need, and when I need to measure something, it will be able to serve that purpose.
They also tend to be a bit longer than a regular ruler, which gives you more stability and control when cutting leather.
Uses Of A Leather Cutting Straight Edge
Leather cutting straight edges is primarily used for, you guessed it, cutting leather along a straight line.
They can be used to cut strips of leather for lacing, trimming down larger pieces of leather, or even just marking lines that will be cut later on.
No matter what your leatherworking project may be, chances are you will need to use a leather cutting straight edge at some point.
Things To Consider When Buying A Leather Cutting Straight Edge
The features of a leather cutting straight edge will vary depending on the type that you choose. Some common features include:
1. Material
The material of choice as far as the leather cutting straight edge is typically metal.
This is so that you have all the support and stability you need when making cuts on both thick and thin leather materials. The metal will also allow for a very precise and clean cut.
Most importantly, the knives you use on them will not be able to cut through the straight edges, ruining the quality of the cut or endangering your fingers in the process.
If you are looking for a more affordable option, there are also plastic, and wood cutting edges available. However, these materials are not as durable or precise as metal.
2. Cork Barking
Another common thing to look out for when choosing a leather cutting straight edge is cork barking.
This is a material that is placed on the back of the cutting edge, and it helps to protect your leather from being scratched or damaged when you are making your cuts.
It also helps to keep the cutting edge in place so it does not move around while you are working.
3. Measurements In Inches And Centimeters
Most leather cutting straight edges will have measurements in both inches and centimeters. This is so that you can make precise cuts, no matter what units of measurement you are using.
Some even have a conversion chart on the side so that you can quickly and easily convert between the two.
This is very helpful if you are working with patterns that are in one unit of measurement but you prefer to cut in another.
4. Length
Leather cutting straight edges come in a variety of lengths, ranging from 12 inches all the way up to 36 inches.
The length that you choose will depend on the project you are working on, as well as your personal preference.
If you are going to be doing a lot of long, straight cuts, then a longer cutting edge is going to be better for you.
If you are only going to be doing smaller projects, or if you have limited space to work with, then a shorter cutting edge will be better suited for your needs.
5. Width
The width of a leather cutting straight edge is also something to consider. They come in a variety of widths, ranging from ½ an inch all the way up to two inches.
Again, the width you choose will depend on the project you are working on, as well as your personal preference.
If you need to make wider cuts, then you will obviously need a cutting edge that is wider.
However, if you only need to make thin, precise cuts, then a narrower cutting edge is going to be better for you.
What Are Some Of The Best Leather Cutting Straight Edge Brands?
Now that you know what to look for in leather cutting straight edge, it is time to start shopping around for the best one for your needs.
Here are some of the best brands on the market:
Breman Precision Metal Ruler
This is a great option if you are looking for an affordable yet high-quality leather cutting straight edge.
Breman Precision Metal Ruler is one of the most popular craft metal rulers you can purchase for your leather work.
It is made from stainless steel, so it is very durable and will not rust over time. It also has a cork backing to protect your leather and keep the ruler in place.
The measurements are etched into the metal so that they will never rub off, no matter how much you use them.
The best part is they come in a wide range of lengths and widths so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Mr. Pen Steel Rulers
This is another great option if you are looking for an affordable yet high-quality leather cutting straight edge.
Mr. Pen Steel Rulers are one of the most popular craft steel rulers you can purchase for your leather work.
They are made from stainless steel, so they are very durable and will not rust over time. They do not have a cork backing but are so smooth they will not damage your leather.
The measurements are etched into the metal so that they will never rub off, no matter how much you use them.
They come in a wide range of lengths and widths, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
You can check it out over here on Amazon if you want a straight edge that’s cheaper.
Tips On How To Use A Leather Cutting Straight Edge
Now that you have your leather cutting straight edge, it is time to learn how to use it. Here are some tips:
- Use a sharp knife: This seems like an obvious one, but it is important nonetheless. A sharp knife will make cleaner cuts and will be less likely to damage your leather.
- Place your leather on a cutting mat: This will protect your surface and also keep your leather from slipping.
- Use a ruler or straight edge to guide your cuts: This will help you make straighter, more precise cuts.
- Go slowly and carefully: rushing will only lead to mistakes. Take your time and be careful.
- Make light cuts and go over them multiple times: This will help you make cleaner, more precise cuts.
- Apply enough pressure on the cutting edge: If you do not apply enough pressure, the knife will slip, and you will end up with an uneven cut.
- Do not apply too much pressure: If you apply too much pressure, you will damage your knife and/or your leather.
- Use a rotary cutter: This is a great tool for making long, straight cuts.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques. You might be surprised at what you come up with.
