cutting and shaping MDF

[inblackandlace]

I'm thinking I may use some MDF for my next project, but I'm not sure what the best way of cutting it and shaping it would be. I live in an apartment and don't have access to woodshop tools. Thanks in advance!

 

[Sluis Van Shipyards]

You'll probably get some info from better experts, but the most important thing is ventilation and good respirator. MDF contains formaldehyde so it's toxic. I've only used small pieces and they were easy to shape with a Dremel. What's the project? It would be easier to figure out how to cut it with that info.

 

[Sean]

coping saw and a dremel work's wonder's. always safety first tho. you can slice a finger real easy with a coping saw not used right...and the respirator Is a must...

 

[cavx]

MDF = the craftman's clay

 

[j0hnyd]

A coping saw is definitely your best, non-power tool friend. You'll want some clamps or a light duty vice to hold your material as well while your cutting. A Dremel is by far the easiest way to shape the MDF if you have access, but everything that a Dremel can accomplish can also be done with rasps, files, and sandpaper for the cheap route.

 

[j0hnyd]

Here's a tutorial I wrote last month about a sword I constructed with MDF. It doesn't necessarily detail how the MDF was shaped, but it does go over layering and some of the other methods I commonly use with it. Hope it helps:

Propmaking with MDF Instructable

 

[cavx]

My wife bought a non Dremil branded tool with cutting bits from Aldi for less than $50. That thing did her full stormtrooper as well as so many of my own projects and is stil going strong. Two or three decent files will cost as much and won't give you the flexibility this tool kit does.

 

[hdtheater]

Also, if you look for it, you can formaldehyde free MDF. I found a dealer and it only costs me $5 more for a 4x8 sheet than at the local big box dealer.

-Eric

 

[TrentR]

(At risk of hijacking this thread from the OP)
I've heard there are lots of types of respirators and filters -- which one is needed for the formaldehyde in MDF?
Any suggestions on specific respirators in use?

Sent from my Nexus 4

 

[inblackandlace]

I have a dremel and 2 rasps - a course one and a pattern makers one. I have a respirator, but I still think I want to look into the non-formaldehyde version since I have a doggie daughter whose been coughing a lot lately from all the polyurethane resin dust in the air ... I'm thinking about making a bow from skyrim. I'm not sure which one yet though.