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This lesson covers the specialist tools and equipment used when working with papers, boards and timbers, as required by AQA GCSE Design and Technology (8552), Section 3.2.8. You need to know the names of tools, what they are used for, and how to select the appropriate tool for a given task.
Papers and boards are widely used in packaging, graphic products and modelling. The tools used must allow precise cutting, scoring and folding.
| Tool | Use | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Craft knife (scalpel) | Cutting paper, card and thin board with precision | Used with a safety rule and cutting mat |
| Rotary cutter | Cutting fabric and paper in straight lines | Rolling blade — faster than a craft knife for long cuts |
| Guillotine | Cutting multiple sheets of paper to the same size | Clamping bar holds paper; blade cuts cleanly |
| Laser cutter | Cutting intricate shapes in card, MDF, acrylic | CAD-driven, extremely precise (± 0.1 mm) |
| Die cutter | Cutting and creasing card for packaging nets | Uses a metal die (blade) pressed into the material |
AQA Exam Tip: When describing tools for papers and boards, always mention safety precautions. For example, a craft knife should be used with a safety rule (with a ridge to protect fingers) and a self-healing cutting mat.
Timbers are one of the most commonly used materials in D&T. The tools range from traditional hand tools to modern power tools and CNC machines.
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Try square | Marking and checking 90° angles |
| Marking gauge | Scribing a line parallel to an edge at a set distance |
| Mortise gauge | Scribing two parallel lines for mortise and tenon joints |
| Sliding bevel | Marking and checking angles other than 90° |
| Pencil and steel rule | General marking out |
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