mask cutting problem

So, here it is. I have transparent mask that is very similar to frisket that I want to use to make the stencil to paint the image on the side cover in the pic. Problem is that no matter how lightly I cut it still leaves cut marks in the underlying plastic side cover. Any suggestions as how to avoid this ? I thought about cutting the mask then laying it on the sidecover but there are far too many fine lines and points in the image..... Any help would be greatly appreciated.

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Hi,

Here is my suggestions: First, put transfer tape on your mask. Cut the different parts on your transfer tape, remove the parts you don't need and apply the mask on your project using the transfer tape. You might have to reduce the stickiness of your transfer tape (by sticking a couple times on your jeans) to be able to easily remove your mask from it.

This should work :0)

-Colin

Little backwards there colin

Cut your design while its on the backing paper etc... then use transfer tape (light tack tape) on top of your newly cut mask, peel it off the backing paper, apply to your item, burnish down, then remove the transfer tape.

Its the standard way to apply vinyl stickers/decals/masks etc...

Also, you can cut on your project w/o making lines, but it takes a long time to learn the right pressure and develop the skill for cutting masking. All I can say there is practice, practice, practice...

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I prefer to cut directly on the transfer tape, it holds the frisket better in place :0)
-Colin

JJ's right. This is the proper way of doing it.

The method you use might work for you Colin but if he's having problems cutting into the substrate, I would imagine he'll end up cutting into the transfer tape as well!

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Some tips for cutting, because I'm a newbie who just went through the same pains... Make sure you're using Stencil blades, use only the tip, and be prepared to go through 2 or 3 blades on a complicated design like that. If the blade is the least bit dull, you'll end up applying too much pressure.

Also, like everyone else is saying, get yourself a cutting mat and cut the vinyl mask on it. Then transfer it to your plastic case with transfer tape.

There might be better ways, but that's what finally worked out for me.

On the subject of blades... scrap the $2/blade "stencil" blades from XActo... Go to the medical supply house and buy a student scalpel. Will run you $10 for the kit with a few blades, and you can get a box of blades CHEAP from them. They last about 10x as long as the xacto blades and are WAY sharper. They are also thinner with curved blade. I've found they make cutting very detailed stuff out much easier. They are also more "tactile" than the xacto so you can feel what you're cutting and you've broken through the mask etc...

now days for most stuff I just use a straight "safety" razor... 100pk for $2 from harbor freight, I got through them like toiletpaper... much more econimical.

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Just dont confuse them with toilet paper! OUCH!
Same here... I use those blades and i don't care how many I go through.. cheap cheap cheap!

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