How to Cut Upholstery Foam
- Check Cushions Check couch or chair cushions. ...
- Measure Take the necessary measurements of the cushions you will be changing the foam for. ...
- Purchase the Foam Once you have taken all the necessary measurements you can purchase the required amount of foam. ...
- Mark the Measurements ...
- Start Cutting the Foam ...
- Cut the Curved Edges ...
What's the best way to cut foam?
Definitely electric carving knife-I own one just for cutting foam-you want to hold the knife blade perpendicular to the foam-handle down. (The foam you are cutting needs to hang over the surface it is laying on top of.) paint chips-good idea to draw on both sides-use a sharpie for the line.
Can you cut foam board with a knife?
Before you cut foam, always make sure your work surface is flat, stable and won't be damaged by cutting through the foam with the knife. If you choose to use a carving knife, use a gentle back-and-forth sawing motion and let the blade work through the sheet. Do not compress the foam and try to make quick cuts through the condensed foam.
How to cut mattress foam with a knife?
Hold the knife at a 90-degree angle to the foam at the edge. This will make it easier to cut deep into the mattress foam. Position the knife so the sharp edge of the blade is lined up with the line you marked on the foam. Cut along the marked line using an up-and-down motion.
How do you remove mattress foam covers?
Most mattress foam comes with an outer covering that protects the foam inside. To remove it, simply unzip the cover and pull it off. If there’s additional lining underneath the zip cover, use a pair of scissors to cut and remove it. Be careful as you’re cutting so you don’t cut into the mattress foam with the scissors. [1]
What is the best tool to cut upholstery foam?
serrated knifeAll you need to cut upholstery foam is a serrated knife, preferably on the larger side. And I bet you already have one — a simple bread knife is perfect for the job! If you don't already have one, this offset bread knife is perfect and only costs $11.
How do you cut a large piece of foam?
0:488:00How To Evenly Remove Thickness From A Large Piece Of Cushion FoamYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd bottom of each cushion. But. The challenge is how do you do that how do you remove three inchesMoreAnd bottom of each cushion. But. The challenge is how do you do that how do you remove three inches evenly off of a thick piece of foam like this so for starters you need a good tool to cut with
How do you cut and shape upholstery foam?
2:119:32How to Shape Upholstery Foam - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe easiest way to cut the a wedge from the two sides is to use the sûreté blade foam saw here we'reMoreThe easiest way to cut the a wedge from the two sides is to use the sûreté blade foam saw here we're using it with the base installed that base can also be removed.
Can you use a hot knife to cut upholstery foam?
0:102:29Cutting Foam With a Hot Knife - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd it has a trigger on it you can has different heat settings. And it has a trigger that you pullMoreAnd it has a trigger on it you can has different heat settings. And it has a trigger that you pull and it heats it up fairly quick.
How do you cut upholstery foam with an electric knife?
0:131:31Cutting Foam with an Electric Kitchen Knife - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst we'll place marks on the foam. Where it needs to be cut to size. Then. We'll use a straightMoreFirst we'll place marks on the foam. Where it needs to be cut to size. Then. We'll use a straight edge and strike a line where we want to cut.
How do you cut dry foam?
Use a sharp kitchen knife to slice through the foam, cutting it easily just like butter, so it's the right size.Foam usually comes in the shape of a block, making it easy to trim it down to fit in a vase or bowl.Dry foam can also be purchased in different shapes already pre-cut.
What can you use to cut foam?
Many people turn to traditional box cutters, traditional utility knives, and all-purpose knives with longer blades to cut foam. Some people may use a ceramic-blade kitchen knife as a foam cutting knife because the blade is long and the edge is even sharper than new metal blades.
How do you make a foam cutter?
0:287:30Making a Hot Wire Cutter for Shaping Foam - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipElbows i used a saw to chamfer the ends of the arms of my frame which will help make assembly aMoreElbows i used a saw to chamfer the ends of the arms of my frame which will help make assembly a little easier. Later i drilled a hole in each arm for an eye bolt to thread.
How do you smooth foaming edges?
0:414:55Prop: Shop - Smoothing Foam Edges - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe short answer is I use my rotary. Tool I have a really cool Fordham rotary tool that we upgradedMoreThe short answer is I use my rotary. Tool I have a really cool Fordham rotary tool that we upgraded to recently when my last one died. But any rotary tool will work the one caveat.
How do you cut a soft foam cushion?
0:105:16Cutting Cushion Foam using Electric Kitchen Knife - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe'll start with the a key cutter 350. The base of the a key cutter. 350 is flat so you can run itMoreWe'll start with the a key cutter 350. The base of the a key cutter. 350 is flat so you can run it along a tabletop to create a straight cut and it does a great job cutting this foam. Now let's use
What kind of foam can you cut with a hot knife?
0:023:31Foam Cutting: Hot Knife - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe hot knife is a combination scrollsaw and power drill it's sleek shape allows you to cut withMoreThe hot knife is a combination scrollsaw and power drill it's sleek shape allows you to cut with agility and surgical precision white magic.
What happens when cutting polyurethane foam?
Polyurethane Foam Does not crumble on cutting.
How do you easily cut foam?
STEP 1: Measure and mark where you'd like to cut. ... STEP 2: Use a sharp serrated knife to score along the mark. ... STEP 3: To cut curves, hold the knife perpendicular to the foam and use a short sawing motion.
How do you cut a 2 inch thick foam board?
While a utility knife is the best cutting tool for thin boards, the best way to cut 2-inch foam board insulation is to use a saw. You can buy a circular saw blade designed for rigid foam, or if you really like to DIY things, you can make your own foam cutting blade using a grinder.
How do you make a foam cutter?
0:287:30Making a Hot Wire Cutter for Shaping Foam - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipElbows i used a saw to chamfer the ends of the arms of my frame which will help make assembly aMoreElbows i used a saw to chamfer the ends of the arms of my frame which will help make assembly a little easier. Later i drilled a hole in each arm for an eye bolt to thread.
What's the best way to cut a foam mattress?
0:392:09Cutting a Foam Mattress in Half - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it's too big to fit into my new space but it's still in such great shape. And I didn't want toMoreSo it's too big to fit into my new space but it's still in such great shape. And I didn't want to have to go to the trouble of finding in a new owner or recycling it and then having to go out and buy
How to cut foam board?
The best way to cut foam board, by contrast, is to use a sharp craft knife or box cutter, with a straightedge as a guide . Don’t rush—cutting too quickly can cause the blade to jump the straightedge and cut your fingers.
How to trace foam?
Do not try to trace the template freehand. Instead, use a straightedge for lines. Avoid leaning on the foam when holding the straightedge, as compressing it while marking will cause inaccuracies. Apply just enough pressure to draw the line so you don’t tear into the foam with the pen.
How to cut a curve?
Cutting curves can be challenging because the foam is more likely to compress and drag on the blade. Hold the blade as near upright as possible, and cut in small increments. Try to turn the blade gently as you go, following the curve. If you can maintain a continuous motion, you’ll end up with a smooth curve instead of a lot of small flats.
Can you cut foam for reupholstering?
Although the foam will be hidden by fabric, care needs to be taken at this stage because poor shaping will often show through in the finished piece. Read on to learn the best way to cut foam for your next project.
Can you cut foam at once?
Whether cutting soft foam or high-density foam of any thickness, cut only one sheet at a time. It may be tempting to compress several sheets together to get through the job more quickly, but compressing foam changes its shape and can result in errors.
Can foam cuttings be choking?
Note: Be sure to clean up foam cuttings as you work. They can present a choking hazard to small children and animals.
Is it safe to cut polyurethane foam?
Always buy foam from reputable sources. Cutting polyurethane foam should be perfectly safe because the foam is treated with flame-retardant chemicals during production. That said, untreated foam, which is extremely flammable, may be available at some outlets, so take care in where you shop.
What do you use to cut upholstery foam?
Utility knife. Tape measure or ruler. Marker. Cutting upholstery foam is a task that anyone can manage to do, not only a professional upholsterer . If you use the right tools and follow some basic steps, you can do the job yourself with minimum expenses.
How to cut foam on a floor?
Place the foam on the floor or onto a hard, level surface and use an electric knife to cut along the lines you marked if the foam is not so thin. Move the knife slowly along the markings so that you can see your progress because you will need to cut accurately and linearly so as to ultimately have satisfying results.
What knife do you use to cut curved cushions?
Some cushions might have curved edges. For these cases, it is best to use a utility knife.
Why add extra inches to a cushion?
Make sure to add extra inches on each side to allow for errors, seams, and other alterations. The thickness is important since you will have to select foam which will accommodate the cushion cover, as otherwise, you would have to change the cushion covers as well.
How to cut memory foam on a table?
Set the foam on a table so the side you’re cutting hangs over the edge. Find a flat, sturdy table to set your memory foam on. Position the memory foam on the table so your cut lines overhang the edge of the table. That way, you won’t damage the tabletop when you cut through the foam.
How to cut foam with electric knife?
Guide the knife along the line you drew on the foam. Turn on your electric carving knife and slowly follow along the marker line. Keep your knife perpendicular to the foam so your cut isn’t crooked. Avoid pushing down on the foam while you’re cutting since it could deform and make your cut inaccurate.
How to remove a memory foam mattress?
1. Remove the slipcover if you’re cutting a memory foam mattress. Many new memory foam mattresses have a slipcover on top for an additional layer of protection. Look for a zipper around the edge of the mattress and unzip it as far as you can.
How to measure foam for pillowcase?
Check the dimensions you need and add 1⁄8 in (0.32 cm) to them. Use a tape measure to double check the height, width, and depth for the foam you need for your project. For example, you may measure a mattress if you’re cutting a memory foam topper, or you may find the dimensions of a pillowcase if you’re making a pillow. Add 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) to each measurement you take since cutting the foam could remove some of the material.
How to cut foam with a marker?
4. Draw your cut lines on the foam with a marker. Set a straightedge on top of the memory foam so it crosses the marks you made for your measurements. Use a permanent marker to draw your lines between the measurements so you know where to make your cuts. Make the lines thin so your cuts and measurements are precise.
How to measure memory foam?
Mark the memory foam with a permanent marker and a tape measure. Hold the end of your tape measure at the edge of your piece of memory foam and pull it out until you reach the correct length. Draw a dot on the memory foam with a permanent marker at the end of your measurement.
What is memory foam used for?
Learn more... Memory foam is a common material used for mattresses and pillows since it’s comfortable and it conforms to your body. If you have a piece of memory foam that’s too large, you can easily cut it at home with an electric carving knife.
How to make a cushion pattern?
To begin making a pattern for a cushion, get a large piece of kraft paper, or a large bolt of cloth, or you can even tape together a few sheets of newspaper in a pinch. Cut the material out based on the general measurements you made in step one, plus 3-5 inches around all the outer dimensions. Then lay the old foam or cushion cover onto the pattern and trace the shape slowly and carefully using a Sharpie or other permanent marker. If you find it easier, you can also place the pattern paper or cloth directly on top of the furniture you are going to make the cushion for, and trace it that way. If you are sending the pattern to FoamOrder or a professional upholsterer, be sure to note details directly on to the pattern, such as top vs. bottom (if necessary), where the zipper should go, and the thickness of the cushion you intend to buy or make. Finally, cut out the pattern shape along the lines you’ve made.
What is foam saw?
Foam saws are made specifically for the purpose of cutting foam. They are especially useful for very thick foam, making cushions with complicated or beveled edges, or for more complex cuts. They come with a sharp, serrated blade with an extra-long length for making deep cuts. The teeth are angled on the side to prevent skidding when cutting through the foam. This is essential when working with dense foam. Though it can be used successfully on softer foams without teeth, the saw blade is staggered and requires a steady hand and good eye coordination. Our partner, Upholster.com, sells foam saws as well as replacement blades.
What is a foam carving knife?
The Foam Carving Knife is helpful for jobs that involve cutting both flat and curved surfaces or creating edges. It can be used to cut a new channel where a zipper would be if you add a removable cushion cover. The knife’s blade length goes from short and stubby, similar to the big razor blade mentioned above, to more dagger-like with teeth on both sides of the blade length.
Can you put down envelopes on foam?
Down Envelopes: If you are looking for an extra layer of luxury to your cushions you can consider down or poly fill envelopes to your foam. This can be a bit more complicated, and you likely need to trim your foam an additional inch or so on all three dimensions for it to still fit correctly in your cushion covers. We’d recommend seeking the advice of an expert if you want to try this added step.
Can you put new foam on a patio cushion?
Outdoor furniture cushions can also mildew and mold over time, requiring a thorough washing of the fabric covers and replacement of the foam with high-quality outdoor foam. While adding new batting or filler to the cushion top is an option, this guide will show you how to cut new foam instead and make your cushions seem new.
How to cut foam in half?
If you want to cut your mattress foam in half, measure from one side of the foam to the other and then divide that number in half to figure out where you’ll want to make the cut. If you know how wide or long you want the piece of foam you’re cutting to be, measure that distance with the measuring tape and use a marker to mark the mattress at that point so you can reference it later.
How to cut deep into foam?
Hold the knife at a 90-degree angle to the foam at the edge. This will make it easier to cut deep into the mattress foam. Position the knife so the sharp edge of the blade is lined up with the line you marked on the foam.
How to remove a mattress cover?
1. Remove the zip cover and any lining on the mattress foam. Most mattress foam comes with an outer covering that protects the foam inside. To remove it, simply unzip the cover and pull it off. If there’s additional lining underneath the zip cover, use a pair of scissors to cut and remove it. Be careful as you’re cutting so you don’t cut into ...
How thick is mattress foam?
If you don't have a kitchen knife that will work, you may be able to use a pair of heavy-duty scissors if the mattress foam you're cutting is 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) or less thick. Just keep in mind that the cut may not be as clean as if you were using a knife.
How to trace a curve on a mattress?
If you’re not cutting a straight line, you can draw the curve you want to cut on a large piece of paper, cut it out, and then trace the curve onto the mattress foam with marker. You can freehand the curve on the paper, or you can trace the curved object you’ll be using the mattress foam for.
How to measure foam for a mattress?
1. Double check your measurements using measuring tape. Measure from the newly cut edge to the opposite side of your mattress foam. If it’s the right size, you’re all set! If it’s not, you can always repeat the process and cut off a little more foam if necessary.
How to cut a mattress with a ruler?
Mark the line you want to cut with a marker. Take a long ruler or straight edge and line it up with the point you measured on the mattress. Then, carefully draw a straight line along the edge of the ruler with a marker. Depending on the shape and size of the piece you want to cut, you may need to draw multiple lines.
How to cut 4' foam (perfectly) for cushion??
I know this sounds funny but I'm hoping some of you upholsterers will chime in.
How big should foam be for a cover?
You want to overcut your foam. The foam should be bigger than the finished size of cover. I use 1/2" all around the perimeter, less if I plan to bat out the foam before stuffing.
What is the best way to get rid of mildew on cushions?
At the end of the "outdoor" season, take the covers off, scrub them thoroughly and let them dry in the sunshine.
What is the best foam for outdoor use?
What's more important for outdoor use, I think, is the quality of the foam. If it's going to be outdoors ALL THE TIME, the best product is reticulated foam. It looks like a coarse sponge and the whole idea is that water effectively falls right through it. Ordinary foam tends to hold water... like a sponge.
How much does a new foam saw cost?
A new foam saw costs considerably more than $100. The cheapest I've seen new is around $300... mine was more.
What adhesive do I use to attach foam to batting?
I use 3M Spray Adhesive to attach the foam to the batting but you can also just wrap it around and secure edge to edge with big hand stitches.
Does foam hold water?
Water gets into the foam via the stitch holes on the covers. If the cushion covers are densely woven (Sunbrella!) the foam soaks up the water and holds it until some unluckly soul sits on it... with predictable results. Batting isn't the issue, the base foam IS.