Hand Cutter how-to

How to Trim Flash from a Molded Part

Clean trimming finishes parts.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Clean trimming finishes parts. In short: hold; cut; follow, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Hold the part securely.

  2. Cut away from your body.

  3. Follow the parting line.

  4. Use a sharp blade.

  5. Check the edge.

  6. Discard waste.

Safety reminders for hand cutters

  • Wear cut-resistant gloves
  • Cut away from the body
  • Change dull blades
  • Dispose of blades safely

Template · Flash · Trim line · Tolerance · Gasket · Durometer: see the full hand cutter glossary.

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