Asked on Aug 16, 2017
How can I smooth edges on sheet metal after cutting w/scissors?
by
Dian
+14
I make decorative wind spinners for the garden, using sheet metal. Cutting w/scissors leaves sharp edges. I've used brass tape on the curved edges to cover. There HAS TO BE an easier & cheaper way ! Is there a small tool to bend the edges & flatten down? The cuts are curved, not straight. No pictures - sorry. Thanx for any help.
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I am lucky to be married to a sheet metal guy. I will ask him when he gets home, I have never had to do it but, i have watched and he uses a few different tools to bend and seam it
A grinder.
Try running over edges with an emory board, file, or sandpaper. There are a few tools for this but many tools are specific to certain trades, too expensive, or too large to use. Metal bending tools are made for straight edges.
Have you tried the black emory paper for metal. Find it in the sandpaper section of the store.
Buy a set of files and good sandpaper.
A side grinder, has one wheel. You could also use a drill and put a grinder wheel on it.
Could you use a Dremel tool to sand and smooth the edges?
Let me know when you are ready if you have questions or need tips using the tools I showed you! Can't wait to see what you create!
Thank you all for your help w/my dilemma. Anything that co$t$ big$$$ I just can't do, since I have no extra $$$. So far, the Stone grinder attachment to my Dremel is the best idea - Thank you, Elizabeth. Holding it at a 45 degree angle seems to work the best. Slow, but the end results are good. I'll send pics soon - I hope.
Dian's Garden spinner.
I shared my thoughts & added a picture. Where are they?
What gauge metal are you cutting? Some methods i would think are overkill.