How to layout large shapes and cut

[gmcttr]

I use a tempered hardboard work surface, soldering gun with cutting tip, blue painters tape and sandbags (rifle rests), 72" aluminum straight edge and framing square. Use 1 3/4 " pins instead of the usual short pins to pin the pieces together for sewing.

A sore back seems to be a requirement as well.

[WV]

I use a tempered hardboard work surface, soldering gun with cutting tip, blue painters tape and sandbags (rifle rests), 72" aluminum straight edge and framing square. Use 1 3/4 " pins instead of the usual short pins to pin the pieces together for sewing.

A sore back seems to be a requirement as well.

I'd feel right at home in your workshop - sore back and all. Now we just need to find the right bench height to minimize repetitive bending and reaching.

[PapaSmurf]

I also use a masonite hardboard surface and most often cut with a knife tipped soldering iron. Recently added some plywood sheets and put the whole 6' x 10' work surface on top of an old broken air hockey table. Much better on the back than crawling around on the floor.

[MAD777]

I lay it out on the carpetted floor of my 18'x19' master bedroom, add weights to hold it down. I measure with a metal yardstick and 24" carpenter's square. I mark it with fine point sharpie and cut it with a rotary cutter after sliding a 24"x48" piece of HDPE 1/8" thick plastic sheet under it (from US Plastics, $15).

If pieces get small enough, I lay the plastic board on the top of the bed (it's a high bed so no back ache), and work up there.

I second large 1-1/2" pins with big, bright yellow heads!

[tpkanu]

I have to agree that it is easier on my back and knees, if I get off that cold concrete garage floor! Waist high would be perfect.

[Gailainne]

I was in Asda today picking up some new fine line sharpies, and I spotted some felt pens for kids, that wash out so I may give them a go for marking out.

I agree about the bad back, I made a balanced lug sail last year which I laid out, marked and cut out in the grass in the back garden, isn't growing old wonderful

Not sure about the pins, I think I'd prefer using tape, and I agree about stretching the sil, something definitely to be watched.

I've used the folding method for my bridge hammocks, but only one piece of the tarp tent is a rectangle, all the rest are a series of triangles. Which reminds me I need to get more tailors chalk for initial marking.

Thanks for all the suggestions guys, its appreciated.

Stephen

[myles to go]

Has any one thought about using a vacuum table and a rotary cutter, something made using a sheet of peg board and powered with a shopvac. I have used vacuum in wood working lots and have alway wondered if it would work for fabric cutting.?