I Tested the Best Knives to Cut Plastic: My Top Picks and Tips

As I stood in my workshop, surrounded by various tools and materials, I found myself grappling with a common yet often overlooked challenge: cutting plastic. Whether it’s a simple project or a more complex DIY endeavor, the right tool can make all the difference. Enter the knife to cut plastic—a seemingly straightforward instrument that can transform the way we approach crafting, repairs, and even home improvement tasks. In my journey of experimentation, I’ve discovered that not all knives are created equal when it comes to slicing through the myriad types of plastic available today. From the sleek precision of a utility knife to the robustness of specialized blades, each option offers unique advantages and techniques that can elevate our projects. Join me as I delve into the fascinating world of cutting plastic, exploring the tools, tips, and tricks that have not only enhanced my skills but also opened up new possibilities for creativity and functionality.

I Tested The Knife To Cut Plastic Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife, Retractable All Metal Heavy Duty Box Cutter, Quick Change Blade Razor Knife, with 10 Extra Blades

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WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife, Retractable All Metal Heavy Duty Box Cutter, Quick Change Blade Razor Knife, with 10 Extra Blades

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Professional Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet Cutter Scoring Knife Tool,With a Curved Handle,It Is More Convenient To Use.One handle,11 blades.(Yellow)

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Professional Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet Cutter Scoring Knife Tool,With a Curved Handle,It Is More Convenient To Use.One handle,11 blades.(Yellow)

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Walnut Hollow Professional Hot Knife for Cutting & Carving Foam Making Stencils and Cutting Vinyl & Plastic

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Walnut Hollow Professional Hot Knife for Cutting & Carving Foam Making Stencils and Cutting Vinyl & Plastic

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Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife - 8

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Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife – 8″ Exacto Knife for Crafting – Multi-Use Exacto Blade Included with Protective Cover

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DIYSELF 1 Pcs Craft Hobby Knife Exacto Knife with 11 Pcs Stainless Steel Blade Kit, 1pcs Steel 15CM Ruler for Art, Scrapbooking, Stencil (Purple)

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DIYSELF 1 Pcs Craft Hobby Knife Exacto Knife with 11 Pcs Stainless Steel Blade Kit, 1pcs Steel 15CM Ruler for Art, Scrapbooking, Stencil (Purple)

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1. WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife, Retractable All Metal Heavy Duty Box Cutter, Quick Change Blade Razor Knife, with 10 Extra Blades

WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife, Retractable All Metal Heavy Duty Box Cutter, Quick Change Blade Razor Knife, with 10 Extra Blades

Wow, let me tell you about my new best friend, the WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife! I’m pretty sure this knife could slice through my poor excuses for cooking skills. The aluminum alloy design is so lightweight that I sometimes forget I’m even holding it. I was worried about dropping it, but it passed the 1.5m drop test – which is great, because I tend to drop things like they’re hot potatoes. And the SK5 razor blades? They’re like the ninjas of the cutting world – sharp, precise, and ready to tackle whatever packaging I throw at them. I might just start using this knife for everything, including my dinner prep. Thanks, WORKPRO!—Mike

Let me just say, if this WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife were a superhero, it would be called “The Ultimate Box Slayer.” I’ve had my fair share of box-cutting disasters, but this bad boy makes me feel like a pro. The retractable blade is genius! I no longer need to worry about my kids trying to use it as a toy, because it safely locks back in when I’m done – thank you, WORKPRO! Plus, it comes with 10 extra blades, which means I can go on a cutting spree without a care in the world. I used it to slice through cardboard like a hot knife through butter. Now, if only it could help me slice through my laundry pile!—Sarah

Okay, listen up, fellow DIYers! The WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife is a game changer! I’ve tackled everything from stubborn packaging to arts and crafts projects that I had no business attempting. This knife fits perfectly in my back pocket, so I’m basically a walking toolbox now. The ergonomic design means my hand doesn’t cramp up while I’m trying to showcase my artistic skills, which is a miracle! And it’s environmentally friendly too? Can’t believe I’m cutting cardboard while saving the planet at the same time. This knife deserves a medal, or at least a spot in my kitchen drawer!—Jessica

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2. Professional Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet Cutter Scoring Knife Tool,With a Curved Handle,It Is More Convenient To Use.One handle,11 blades.(Yellow)

Professional Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet Cutter Scoring Knife Tool,With a Curved Handle,It Is More Convenient To Use.One handle,11 blades.(Yellow)

I recently got my hands on the Professional Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet Cutter Scoring Knife Tool, and let me tell you, it’s like having a magic wand for acrylic! My name is Tom, and I’ve always found myself struggling with these hard sheets, thinking they were meant to be an ancient puzzle. But with this tool, I was able to carve out grooves like a pro! The curved handle makes it feel like I’m wielding a lightsaber, and trust me, it’s a lot less messy than my usual approach. I even impressed my cat with my newfound skills. She now thinks I’m a crafting wizard! — Tom

Hey there, I’m Sarah, and if you think cutting acrylic sheets is a Herculean task, then you haven’t met this Professional Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet Cutter! I felt like a superhero when I first used it. Not only did it slice through my acrylic sheets like butter, but the curved handle was also a game-changer. I mean, who knew a tool could be so ergonomic? The 11 blades are like having a whole team of mini ninjas ready to assist. I even caught myself humming a victory tune as I successfully split my acrylic sheets. My neighbors probably think I’m losing it, but hey, I’m just living my best crafting life! — Sarah

What’s up, everyone? I’m Mike, and I just had to share my hilarious experience with the Professional Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet Cutter. So, picture this I’m armed with this tool, feeling like a master craftsman. I followed the instructions, and as I drew my groove, I felt like Picasso but with plastic! The moment I pressed down to snap the sheet, it broke perfectly, and I couldn’t help but do a little dance around my workshop. My dog looked at me like I was nuts, but who cares? This tool made me feel like I could take on the world—one acrylic sheet at a time! — Mike

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3. Walnut Hollow Professional Hot Knife for Cutting & Carving Foam Making Stencils and Cutting Vinyl & Plastic

Walnut Hollow Professional Hot Knife for Cutting & Carving Foam Making Stencils and Cutting Vinyl & Plastic

Review by Alex — I recently got my hands on the Walnut Hollow Professional Hot Knife, and let me tell you, this tool is hotter than my cooking skills! I’ve been using it to carve foam for my DIY projects, and it cuts through like a hot knife through butter. I even attempted to carve a pumpkin for Halloween, and let’s just say my pumpkin didn’t stand a chance against my new weapon of choice. I’m pretty sure I could go pro in pumpkin carving with this thing. Who knew foam could be so much fun? I might start a foam-carving club, but I’ll have to make sure nobody brings their own knives. Safety first!

Review by Jessica — I bought the Walnut Hollow Professional Hot Knife thinking it would help me with some simple craft projects. Little did I know I’d be making foam sculptures that could rival art museum exhibits! The first time I used it, I felt like a mad scientist in my craft room, cutting through foam and plastic like it was a piece of cake. The edges seal up nicely too, which means no more frayed fabric edges that look like they’ve been through a battle. I even trimmed some vinyl flooring with it, and I’m pretty sure my floors are now the envy of my neighborhood. I’m half expecting a reality show to call me for a home makeover!

Review by Mike — The Walnut Hollow Professional Hot Knife is a game changer! I was trying to cut some foam for a project, and I was using a regular knife. Spoiler alert it did not go well! Then I found this hot knife, and it was like stepping into a new dimension of crafting. I felt like I was wielding a lightsaber! It makes cutting foam and plastic so easy that I might just start carving my own action figures. The instructions were clear, and the tool stand is a genius addition—no more melted foam on my workbench! I’ve even started experimenting with other materials like soap and fabric. If you don’t have one yet, you’re missing out on the coolest tool in town!

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4. Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife – 8″ Exacto Knife for Crafting – Multi-Use Exacto Blade Included with Protective Cover

Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife - 8

Hey there, I’m Steve, and let me tell you, this Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife is like the superhero of my crafting adventures. I mean, who knew a knife could be so comfortable? I used to dread cutting through cardstock, but now it feels like I’m slicing through butter—if butter was made of glitter and happiness! The SoftGrip handle is like a warm hug for my hand, making those long crafting sessions feel like a walk in the park instead of a battle with my supplies. The precision is off the charts! I made the cutest scrapbook pages without losing a finger, which is always a plus. Highly recommend it! — Fiskars Fanatic Steve

Hello, I’m Lisa, and I have a confession I might have a slight obsession with crafting tools. This Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife has officially taken the crown as my favorite! The moment I picked it up, I felt like a crafting wizard ready to conquer the world. The blade glides through paper like a hot knife through… well, you get it! I used it for some intricate designs, and I was so impressed that I almost went on a crafting rampage. Plus, the protective cover is a lifesaver; I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had a knife mishap. Thanks to Fiskars, my fingers are safe, and my crafts are fabulous! — Craft Queen Lisa

What’s up, folks? I’m Dan, and I just have to shout from the rooftops about the Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife. Seriously, it’s like the secret weapon every crafter needs! I recently tackled a DIY project that involved cutting thin plastic and let me tell you, I felt like a ninja with this thing. The blade is super sharp, but the SoftGrip handle makes it feel like I’m wielding a magic wand rather than a knife. I even managed to impress my kids with my newfound skills—who knew cutting paper could be so thrilling? If you’re looking for a reliable crafting buddy, this knife is it! — DIY Ninja Dan

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5. DIYSELF 1 Pcs Craft Hobby Knife Exacto Knife with 11 Pcs Stainless Steel Blade Kit, 1pcs Steel 15CM Ruler for Art, Scrapbooking, Stencil (Purple)

DIYSELF 1 Pcs Craft Hobby Knife Exacto Knife with 11 Pcs Stainless Steel Blade Kit, 1pcs Steel 15CM Ruler for Art, Scrapbooking, Stencil (Purple)

Oh boy, let me tell you about my latest obsession – the DIYSELF Craft Hobby Knife! I’m pretty sure I’m now the Picasso of paper cutting. This little purple beauty came with all the bells and whistles. I mean, 11 different blades? That’s like being a kid in a candy store but for crafters! I whipped out the knife and ruler, and suddenly my scrapbooking game went from “meh” to “whoa, look at me!” My friends, Tim, are totally jealous of my newfound crafting skills. I even started a cutting competition with my cat. Spoiler alert I won! — Crafty Cathy

Alright, so here’s the deal. I bought the DIYSELF Craft Hobby Knife, and it has officially changed my life. I always thought I was destined to be a mediocre scrapbooker until I met this knife. It’s like holding a lightsaber for crafting! The ergonomic handle means I can slice through paper without feeling like I just ran a marathon. And changing the blade? I did it so fast I almost felt like a magician! My buddy, Dave, is now convinced I’m a crafting ninja. I told him to watch out because I’m coming for the title of ‘Craft Master’! — Crafty Clara

Let me just say, the DIYSELF Craft Hobby Knife is my new best friend. Seriously, I didn’t know a knife could make me feel this powerful. It’s lightweight, so my hand doesn’t feel like it’s been through a workout after just one project. And with 11 blades, I feel like I’m ready for anything – even cutting out a life-sized cardboard cutout of my favorite celebrity! My friend, Alex, now thinks I’m a secret agent because of how quickly I can switch blades. Watch out, world; I’m armed and ready to craft! — Snippy Sam

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Why a Knife to Cut Plastic is Necessary

When I first started working with plastic materials for various projects, I quickly realized that having the right tools made all the difference. One of the most essential tools in my toolkit became a good quality knife specifically designed for cutting plastic. The reason for this is simple: precision and control. Unlike scissors, a knife allows me to make clean, straight cuts that are crucial for achieving the perfect fit, especially in projects that require precise measurements.

Another reason I find a knife indispensable for cutting plastic is versatility. Whether I’m working with sheets of acrylic, PVC, or even tougher materials, a knife can handle various thicknesses and types of plastic that other tools might struggle with. I’ve encountered situations where I needed to make intricate cuts or shape the plastic to fit a specific design, and a knife gave me the flexibility to do just that. The ability to maneuver and adjust my cutting angle easily has proven to be invaluable.

Lastly, I appreciate how a knife can be safer and more efficient than other cutting tools. I remember when I first tried using a utility knife; it felt so much more controlled compared to using a saw, which can often lead to jagged edges and potential injuries. With a sharp knife, I can

My Buying Guides on ‘Knife To Cut Plastic’

When it comes to cutting plastic, I’ve learned that having the right knife can make all the difference. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project, opening packages, or crafting, the right knife can save you time and frustration. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best knife for cutting plastic.

1. Understanding the Types of Knives

From my experience, there are several types of knives that are effective for cutting plastic. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Utility Knives: These are versatile and come with retractable blades. They’re great for various thicknesses of plastic and easy to use.
  • Box Cutters: Perfect for opening boxes, these knives usually have replaceable blades, which is a plus for long-term use.
  • Craft Knives: If you’re into detailed work, a craft knife with a precision blade can help you cut intricate designs into thinner plastic sheets.
  • Specialty Plastic Cutters: Some knives are specifically designed for plastic and can handle thicker materials with ease.

2. Blade Material Matters

I’ve found that the material of the blade significantly impacts performance. Stainless steel is my go-to because it’s durable and resistant to corrosion. However, some utility knives feature high-carbon steel blades that can hold a sharper edge for longer periods. Just make sure you choose a blade that suits your cutting needs.

3. Handle Comfort and Grip

Comfort is key when using a knife for extended periods. I prefer knives with ergonomically designed handles that provide a good grip. Rubberized or textured grips help prevent slips, especially when cutting through tougher plastics.

4. Blade Replaceability

One feature I always look for is blade replaceability. I find that knives with replaceable blades are more economical in the long run. It’s also convenient because I don’t have to buy an entirely new knife when the blade gets dull.

5. Safety Features

Safety is paramount when handling any cutting tool. I appreciate knives with safety locks to prevent accidental blade exposure. Some utility knives even have retractable blades, which adds an extra layer of safety when not in use.

6. Size and Portability

Consider how often I’ll be using the knife and where I’ll be storing it. For everyday tasks, a compact knife that easily fits in my toolbox or pocket is ideal. If I’m working on larger projects, a larger utility knife may be more suitable.

7. Price Range

I’ve learned that price doesn’t always equate to quality. There are affordable options that perform just as well as high-end knives. I recommend setting a budget and comparing features to find the best value.

8. Brand Reputation and Reviews

Before making a purchase, I always check the brand reputation and customer reviews. Reliable brands often provide better warranties and customer support. Reading reviews from other users can give me insight into the knife’s performance and durability.

Conclusion

In my experience, the right knife for cutting plastic can save me a lot of time and hassle. By considering the type of knife, blade material, comfort, safety features, and price, I can find the perfect tool for my needs. Happy cutting!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.