Tools for cutting window openings?

[Texas Zepher]

I don't know what material is planning to be cut, but how about a square hole punch? They are available at many craft stores. They work great for cardboard and thin styrene. As usual not all brands are created equal, as some leave fuzzy edges or corners.

[Anonymous]

LOL, laser or waterjet. Fred

[BigRusty]

Most styrene builders recommend the assembly method. Use long cross strips the width of the building and the height between floor to windows, windows to ceiling, etc. Fill in with spaces between windows. No cutting, everything square. Windows a perfect fit. There were several articles on this MRR a few years ago.

Micro Mark sell a corner cutting tool. Drill four small holes in the corners a little ways from the line. Cut between the holes. Avoids splitting. Last step file to the line an square the corners. Check window castings for fit.

Nobody said scratch building was easy.

[Anonymous]

Hi Chuck,

Suggest checking out Micromark's 'nibbling cutter' (part # 81477) - It does exactly what you want on styrene and (thin) wood. The problem with 'power tools' and styrene is melting it rather than cutting it...... Although I have a used an infinitely variable scroll saw, s-l-o-w-l-y on thick styrene sheet (> .080) with reasonable results.

cheers,
Ian

[tstage]

Chuck,

How big are these windows going to be? What kind of matereial? Styrene? Wood?

The easiest method would be to just use an broad width X-acto knife blade and use it like a chisel to cut your window and door openings. I would think that their would be an horrendous amout of set time with a machine of some type. Chisel and filing is my recommendation.

Tom

[prompter]

I'm planning to do a lot of scratchbuilding, and looking for ideas for a mini power tool that can be used to cut out the openings for windows in building walls. I've considered a scroll saw, but not sure if that's the best answer. Looking for something that can be used with a fence or other guide to ensure straight cuts. Any ideas or recommendations would be appreciated.

Chuck