Global Scale Modeller

So Im building my new panzer last night and when I start to cut out a piece, the Xacto knife slips!! It seems that when I want it to cut plastic, it wont cut but it is razor sharp when it cuts flesh! I have one finger on my left hand that hasnt been sliced this week. Does anyone know of a way to keep this amputation utensil from claiming another digit?

Yeah. .. dont cut towards yourself. ...

I would recommend buying a cutting mate. When you use them you are cutting downward which should minimize blade-to-finger encounters.

Emodels has the Humbrol mat - http://www.emodels.co.uk/plastic-kits/h ... 43839.html

Also, Home Bargains have their own brand sticking plasters on a roll (cut-to-size) which are the best I've used

I've just noticed that you are in Miami so your best bet is probably Staples, they have the Xacto cutting mat for less than $20

http://www.staples.com/X-Acto-Self-Heal ... uct_609016

Ouch we have all done it a little blood on yhe model is as good as a little primer

I always try to ensure I am cutting downwards onto a surface IE a mat so that the pressure is being transferred and gravity is allowed to do it's job. I presume it is the part holding hand that is being sliced - if so get some clamps or strong tweezers to replace the fleshy bits.

Chicks dig scars.

But:
1) Use a sharp blade. They need less force to cut and slip less.

2) Cut away from yourself and any body parts you consider important.

3) Consider where the blade will go if (when) something goes wrong before cutting.

4) try a smaller blade. For handheld cutting/trimming I use a knock-off of this:

The smaller blade (about 1cm or 1/4" of cutting surface) means more control (and hopefully a smaller cut if it does go wrong, haven't tested that theory yet, knock on wood).
The larger no.11 blades are only used for on the mat cuts now.

Points 1 and 2 will also help avoid break the blade and having sharp steel launched at your face and eyes.