How to Use a Swivel Knife

A swivel knife is an essential tool for leather carving and design, allowing artisans to create intricate patterns with precision.

Unlike traditional fixed-blade knives, the swivel knife features a curved blade that pivots, enabling smooth, controlled movements as it glides across the leather surface. This versatility makes it a favorite among leatherworkers, as it facilitates both sharp lines and delicate curves.

In this guide on how to use a swivel knife, we will explore the proper techniques for using a swivel knife, discuss its components, and provide tips for achieving professional-looking results in your leather projects.

What is a Swivel Knife?

A swivel knife is a specialized cutting tool primarily used in leatherworking to create detailed designs and carvings. Distinguished by its unique construction, the swivel knife consists of a handle, a pivot point, and a curved blade that allows for rotational movements. The design enables artisans to maneuver the knife with ease, making it possible to produce both intricate details and smooth, sweeping lines in leather.

Typically, swivel knives come in various blade sizes and shapes, allowing users to select the best tool for their specific projects. This tool is considered indispensable for leather craftsmen seeking to elevate their artistry and achieve finer results in their creations.

Benefits of Using a Swivel Knife Include

• Precision and control in carving intricate designs
• Achieving clean, smooth lines on leather patterns
• Ability to create varying depths and textures in the leather surface for a more realistic look
• Versatility for use in both detailed work and larger cuts
• Time-saving in comparison to traditional fixed-blade knives
• Professional-looking results that add a touch of elegance to leather projects
• It can be used for both decorative and functional purposes
•  Suitable for a wide range of leather types, including veg-tanned, tooling, and soft leathers

Needed Materials

To properly use a swivel knife, you will need the following materials:

• Swivel Knife Handle
• Blade (Usually Sold Separately)
• Cutting Board or Self-healing Mat 
• Leather Piece(s)
• Pencil or Pen for Tracing Design
• Water to Dampen the Leather

8 Steps on How to Use a Swivel Knife

Step 1: Select the Proper Blade for Your Project

Choosing the right blade for your swivel knife is crucial to achieving the desired results in your leather project. Swivel knife blades come in various sizes and shapes, each designed for specific applications. For intricate detailing and fine lines, opt for a smaller blade, which allows for greater precision.

Conversely, if your project involves bold, sweeping curves or larger cuts, a wider blade may be more suitable. Consider the type of leather you are working with as well; some blades perform better on certain leather types, such as veg-tanned or tooling leather. Take the time to assess your design and select the blade that best aligns with your vision for optimal outcomes.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

Before beginning to use your swivel knife, ensure that you have a clean, well-lit workspace. It is best to work on a flat surface with a cutting board or self-healing mat underneath the leather piece you are working on. This will protect your blade and allow for smoother movements while carving.

You may also want to have a small container of water nearby to dampen the leather surface as needed. This will help prevent the blade from sticking or causing rough edges in the carving process.

Step 3: Trace Your Design 

Once you have prepared your workspace and selected the appropriate blade, it’s time to trace your design onto the leather piece. Begin by using a pencil or pen to lightly outline your desired pattern on the dampened leather. This initial tracing will serve as a guide while you carve, ensuring that your final design remains accurate and detailed.

Take care to apply a gentle hand while tracing to avoid any deep impressions or indentations that could affect the carving process. If you’re working from a template or stencil, firmly secure it to the leather to maintain its position as you trace. Once you have successfully outlined your design, allow it a moment to dry slightly before moving on to the carving step, as this will help ensure cleaner lines during the use of the swivel knife.

Step 4: Hold Your Swivel Knife Correctly

Holding the swivel knife correctly is essential to achieving smooth, precise cuts. Grip the handle firmly in your dominant hand, with your index finger naturally resting on the top of the blade’s pivot point. This finger should remain there during use as it serves as a guide for rotational movements.

Place your other hand on the handle’s bottom and maintain light pressure while cutting. The goal is to keep the knife steady and balanced while moving it along the traced design. Keep in mind that you will need to pivot or rotate your wrist slightly as you create different curves and angles in your carving.

Step 5: Practice Proper Cutting Techniques

To achieve clean, accurate cuts, it is crucial to use the swivel knife properly. Begin by placing the blade at a shallow angle against the leather surface, with the cutting edge directed away from you. Slowly push and rotate the knife along your traced design, using gentle pressure to create a smooth groove in the leather.

Move your hand and wrist as needed to follow the lines and curves of your pattern while maintaining control of the blade’s direction. Avoid lifting or dragging the blade too much during each cut, as this can cause jagged edges or uneven depths in your carving.

Step 6: Vary Depths for Texture

One of the advantages of using a swivel knife is its ability to create varying depths and textures in the leather surface. This feature allows for a more realistic look, adding dimension and depth to your designs.

To achieve different depths, adjust the angle of the blade against the leather accordingly. For shallow cuts, hold the knife at a flatter angle, and for deeper cuts, use a steeper angle. Experiment with these variations to add texture and character to your carvings.

Step 7: Clean as You Go

To achieve professional-looking results with your swivel knife, it’s essential to clean it regularly while working. As you carve, small pieces of leather may accumulate on the blade or pivot point, causing drag and hindering smooth movements. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe these pieces away periodically, and continue carving.

You may also want to use a sharpening stone or strop between cuts to maintain the blade’s sharpness for clean, effortless cutting.

Step 8: Practice Makes Perfect

Like any skill, using a swivel knife takes practice and patience. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t yield perfect results; keep practicing, and you will improve over time. As you become more comfortable with the tools and techniques, you can experiment with different designs and leather types to expand your skills further.

With its versatility, efficiency, and professional-looking results, a swivel knife is an essential tool for any leatherworker. By following these steps on how to use a swivel knife and practicing regularly, you will become a pro at using this valuable instrument in no time!

Additional Tips for Using a Swivel Knife

Keep Extra Blades on Hand

As with any sharp tool, swivel knife blades can dull over time with repeated use. Keep extra blades handy so that you can easily switch them out when needed. This will ensure that your cuts remain clean and precise without the frustration of a dull blade hindering your progress.

Use a Cutting Mat:

In addition to providing protection for your swivel knife blade, using a cutting mat also helps protect your work surface from scratches or damage. It can be especially useful when working on delicate materials or intricate designs.

Experiment with Different Blades:

Don’t be afraid to try out different blades to see which ones work best for your specific projects. Some blades may perform better on certain types of leather or for particular carving techniques. Keep a variety of blades in your toolbox and switch them out as needed to achieve the desired results.

Take Breaks and Rest Your Hands:

Using a swivel knife requires precision and control, which can be physically taxing on the hands. Be sure to take breaks as needed and rest your hands to avoid strain or fatigue. This will also help maintain steady hand movements for more accurate cuts.

Don’t be Afraid to Make Mistakes:

Carving leather with a swivel knife is an art form, and like any creative process, mistakes are bound to happen. Instead of getting frustrated, embrace these mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve your technique. With practice, you’ll develop the skills necessary to create beautifully carved leather designs that you can be proud of.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of a swivel knife can greatly enhance your leatherworking projects, allowing for intricate designs and personal expression. By following the structured steps on how to use a swivel knife outlined above—from preparing your leather properly to practising your cutting techniques—you’ll develop the skills necessary to achieve professional-quality results.

Remember that practice is key, and don’t shy away from experimenting with different styles and textures. Over time, as you become more comfortable with your swivel knife, you’ll find that it not only improves your craftsmanship but also adds a unique flair to your leatherwork. Embrace the journey, enjoy the process, and let your creativity flourish!