I like knives, a lot and as a result, I have accumulated a lot of them. As part of that, I have also accumulated a lot of utility blades and I seem to never have the knife handles around for the blades. The few commercially made handles I have tend to frustrate me because they rust, break, and are often overly complex. So I created this…
This utility knife is basically for opening and breaking down cardboard boxes. I need one in my kitchen, by my front door, near my recycling, in my toolbox, you get the idea – I need them everywhere. So this is cheap, simple and works!
The handle is very simple and very useable but I think what makes this so functional is that the case allows you to safely store the knife in your pocket, kitchen drawer, toolbox, etcetera. And, at the same time, the case is also the tool to insert and remove blades.
I have 3 different brands of utility blades bought here in Canada and they are all the same outside dimensions and format. However, based on a quick Google search I see there are other sizes (formats) around the world so make sure the blades you have (or can get) are similar to the size I have shown here…
If you have a different size blade and can document it, I would be happy to make an adaptation of this for other blade sizes. Just send me the details.
Instructions
It is almost easy enough that no instructions are required. I mean… stick a blade in it, and replace it when it is dull! But the extreme sharpness of these utility blades means there is some caution required. So I created tools (as part of the case) that help you to insert the blade and unlock to remove the blade. Instructions for both of those scenarios are included below…
Printing
I have tried to make my main print settings visible on the Cura screenshot but in case they are difficult to read I have summarized them again here…
Material: I choose to use PETG for its durability and flexibility.
My Setup:
Nozzle = 0.4mm
My Settings:
Layer height = 0.2mm
Line width = 0.4mm
Wall count = 4 (1.6mm)
Infill = 40%
Ironing = ON
Print Orientation: As shown in the screenshot(s).
Support: None needed.
Post-Printing Notes
There is a unique design feature to the knife handle which is a turn in an unsupported run. Of course, the solution to this is “support” but the support is not conventional and does not need to be removed. The support in this case is 1 nozzle width (0.4mm) and is broken by inserting the blade the first time. You may feel it the first time the blade is inserted. After a the first blade has been fully inserted once, it will go in and out more easily after that.
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