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How to Cut Foam for a Seat

A pair of sharp scissors or a utility knife will cut through thick polyfoam used to upholster seats, but the foam edges will be uneven and hard to cover. Using scissors or a utility knife will also require heavy pressure, a sawing motion and a bit of elbow grease. The trick to getting a smooth edge when cutting the foam for a seat is to use an electric knife. An electric knife will slide through the foam almost as easily as a hot knife slides through butter.

Things You'll Need

  • Colored chalk
  • Electric carving knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the polyfoam on a flat surface.

    • 2

      Mark the shape of the seat on the foam with chalk, making a heavy, clearly visible line.

    • 3

      Position the electric knife at a 90-degree angle to the foam, at the outer edge of the chalk line, making sure there is nothing under the area you will be cutting.

    • 4

      Turn the knife on, and cut all of the way around the chalk line, keeping the knife blade straight up and down in the foam.

    • 5

      Set the excess foam aside, and inspect the seat pad for uneven edges. If you find uneven edges, trim the rough spots away with the electric knife.