Cutting a structure to fit a backdrop?

theskunk Mar 24, 2016

  1. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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    Hi,

    Per the description, I have a structure (HO Scale) that I'd like to use on my new shelf layout. I need to cut it at a bit of an angle to fit the track that I've decided on for it, but I'm truly not really sure how to go about doing this. Obviously holding it on the edge and marking the cut with a string sounds feasible, but then I'm not sure what to use to actually make the cut. A dremel tends to melt plastic a bit more than just cut it, so I wanted to check with you guys and see what you think.

    Thanks!
     
  2. JimJ

    JimJ Staff Member

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    Razor saw or a metal straight edge and many passes with a fresh x-acto knife.
     
  3. theskunk

    theskunk TrainBoard Member

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    got ya.
     
  4. retsignalmtr

    retsignalmtr TrainBoard Member

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    I cut a structure at an angle for T-Trak module. After I assembled the church and reenforced the corners I used painters tape to mark the cut line. Using a 32 teeth per inch hacksaw blade I slowly and carefully sawed through the roof and walls of the building along the edge of the tape
     
  5. upstate gator

    upstate gator TrainBoard Member

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    Model Railroader had an article about the Clinchfield Railroad MANY years ago. I believe Gordon Odegard used a bandsaw to cut the Heljan furniture factory in half lengthwise. He used both haves of the building.
    Ben
     
  6. Kenneth L. Anthony

    Kenneth L. Anthony TrainBoard Member

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    I have just used Xacto hobby knife.
    SawShop2.JPG

    AND I have built them cut to fit.
    JSchool.JPG
     
  7. Jeepy84

    Jeepy84 TrainBoard Member

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    If it is at an odd (not 90) degree angle, and it is difficult to keep straight, take a cheat from the RC guys and use string. Start the cut as you would normally with a blade, Xacto or hacksaw, does not matter, all you want to do it make notches. Next, get yourself a length of thread, strong but thin cotton. Something with some abrasiveness to it, so not monofilament. Then just work the string back and forth while applying some downward pressure. Rope burn for plastic.

    http://www.overclock.net/t/1204010/how-to-toolessly-cut-plastic-with-a-piece-of-string

    Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk
     

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