How To Straighten Thick Plastic Sheet

If you want a straight cut in a thin acrylic or polycarbonate plastic sheet up to inch thick reach for a simple utility knife then follow these steps.

How to straighten thick plastic sheet.

Cutting thin sheets of plastic. When they are done i pull them out of the oven place another cookie sheet on top and then add some weight typically use four 30 packs of pop. For thicker sheets it will take longer and for thinner sheets it will take less time. The only major variable that can affect the forming process is the thickness of the plastic sheet.

I use parchment paper to keep any debris from the cookie sheets from getting on my plastics. This article uses a sheet about 1 4 thick so all times are about 10 to 15 minutes per step. You will also need spacers the same thickness or slightly thinner than the plastic you need to clamp to keep your stripwood jig even with the top of the plastic you will be bending. Scrap wood you need a straight edged piece of wood for your jig.

Modify the timing as necessary. We suggest something at least 1 8 inch thick and wide enough for your clamps. The edge of the blade should hit the line exactly. The combo of heating the entire plastic plus using weight really does a great job.

Lay your acrylic sheet on a flat work surface and mark the line to be cut.