How to cut Finnboard elevations

Metal rules, a scalpel and two craft knives on a cutting mat

How to mount printed elevations on Finnboard and cut them out, windows included.

Metal rules, a scalpel and two craft knives on a cutting mat

What you will need

Apply your elevations

In a well ventilated space, spray the glue onto the Finnboard and onto the printed elevations. Leave them for a few minutes until the glue becomes tacky, then stick them together, smoothing over the paper to form a permanent bond.

Spray glue beside a printed elevation and a Finnboard sheet

Prepare for the cut

Place the metal rule on top of the elevation, so that you cut away the waste Finnboard. If you slip, there will be no damage to the elevation.

A metal rule laid over the printed elevation

Commence your cut

Hold the knife firmly but without gripping too hard, keep it as vertical as possible, and start to make your cut. It is important not to push too hard: let the blade find its way through the material, making as many cuts as you need to cut through the Finnboard.

Cutting along the rule with a craft knife held vertically

Cutting out windows

Windows need precise cutting from corner to corner. Holding the knife as vertical as possible will really help here.

Cutting a window opening along the rule

Release the corners

Work your way around each side of the window. Once this is done, you may need to run your knife into each corner to release the window.

Running the knife into the corner of a window to release it