Cutting MDF

[pixelgeek]

I have a large number of 2-3mm MDF movement trays. I was thinking of cutting these into smaller pieces either to use as cavalry/chariot bases or as smaller movement trays. I don't have any woodworking tools so is it possible to accurately cut MDF with just a hobby knife to score lines and a smaller handheld saw?

[Cat]

Yes.  I've cut MDF with multiple scorings with a heavy blade.  I've also scored a line to use as a cutting line for a hobby razor saw.  Also done it by scoring both sides, snapping, then filing the rough middle bit.

[ithoriel]

MDF dust can be nasty stuff, best wear a mask.

[fred]

It can be done with a knife - but I have found it hard to cut to a straight line (even using a ruler). You will need a lot of cuts to get through 2-3mm MDF.

I’d think about how many cuts you need - cutting in half is practical, cutting into many pieces, I think you will find is hard work and will just wish you had bought some smaller bases instead!

[dampfpanzerwagon]

Cut it slightly too big and sand the edges back. I used sandpaper stuck to a board with double sided tape to ensure a truly flat sand.

Always were a mask - MDF dust is not a great product to be breathing in.

Tony

[AndrewBeasley]

A "Stanley knife" not a general hobby knife would be my go to with a new blade.
Do not be surprised on how quickly the blade blunts either...


https://www.tooled-up.com/artwork/prodzoom/STA010088.jpg

[pixelgeek]

A "Stanley knife" not a general hobby knife would be my go to with a new blade.
Do not be surprised on how quickly the blade blunts either...

I am never surprised by how quickly those blades will dull. I picked a new utility knife up recently so I will give that a try. I have a pile of cavalry to base and I don't want to wait for my Warbases order to make it here before I get some Boar riders on the table.

[traveller]

I use a small hobby saw, works fine 

[Fitz]

While it is possible to cut MDF by repeatedly scoring it with a knife, it's a terrible way of going about it.

Better by far to just bite the bullet and get yourself a gents saw. You can spend as much as you like on these, but I've had years of good service from one that only cost me about 15 dollars (kiwibucks).

I also cobbled together a simple mitre box for my little modeller's razor saw out of scraps of 18mm MDF that makes cutting 90 and 45 degree angles a breeze. It's not necessary, but it will certainly make life easier.

[Andy in Germany]

A very nice setup. Unfortunately products like MDF chipboard, ply, et c, are full of resin and glue (and in the case of chipboard, up to 9% metal) which is very hard on saws.