Sawing and Filing Safety Tips
by Susan LeGuyader
Safety in the studio is always one of the most important part of creating. Not nearly as fun but then cuts and burns aren't either. Taking just a few quick measures can eliminate the downtime from an injury. Always wear goggles and masks when working with flying particles or flying metal. Masks protect your lungs from harmful chemicals. We know these things. What we might tend to forget is our fingers and hands.
Instructions
Today, I want to talk to you about sawing and filing safety. There are as many options available. The first I would like to tell you about are these rubber finger guards. They come in a variety of sizes. I would suggest getting the proper sizes for your thumb and finger. These are not as sturdy as leather guards but they are quick and efficient, although they make my fingers sweat.
Susan LeGuyader's Sawing and Filing Safety Tips - , safety, safety, sawing and filing safety tips
When sawing jump rings, I use my thumb and forefinger. The same is true, mostly for filling and sanding. I have given myself multiple cuts or rubbed my fingers raw by not wearing guards. I've tried wearing just one, on either finger or thumb and there are still issues with cuts and also heat. Metal gets hot from the friction of sawing or filing.
Wearing them on both fingers saved me both cuts and heat when getting to close.
Susan LeGuyader's Sawing and Filing Safety Tips - , safety, safety, sawing and filing safety tips
Susan LeGuyader's Sawing and Filing Safety Tips - , safety, safety, sawing and filing safety tips
Another option for finger safety is Alligator tape. It is self-sticking, easier to remove than duct tape. It is also tough.
Wrapping your fingers for sawing or extended sanding/filing will save your fingerprints as well as cuts. Downside, you have to replace it every time and also take the time to apply it. That said, it has multiple uses and fits any part of your hands that need protecting.
Susan LeGuyader's Sawing and Filing Safety Tips - , safety, safety, sawing and filing safety tips
Susan LeGuyader's Sawing and Filing Safety Tips - , safety, safety, sawing and filing safety tips
The last option that I will share with you are leather finger guards. They work the same as the rubber guards but are longer lasting. These also come in a variety of sizes to get a proper fit and you will find multiple uses for them in the studio or maybe the kitchen too.
Take your health and safety seriously when you are creating. You'll want to spend years creating, won't you?
Susan LeGuyader's Sawing and Filing Safety Tips - , safety, safety, sawing and filing safety tips

Materials

No materials listed

Tools

2/0 Relentless Sawblade - Sold by the Dozen
SAW-400.05D
  • SAW-400.05D
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $3.97
  • Gold Club Price: $2.98
Add to Bag
4 Saw Frame with Tension Screw
SAW-334.00
  • SAW-334.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $21.97
  • Gold Club Price: $16.48
Out of Stock
Finger Pro Tape - 1
POL-255.00
  • POL-255.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $2.95
  • Gold Club Price: $2.21
Add to Bag
Finger Pro Tape - 3/4
POL-250.00
  • POL-250.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $2.27
  • Gold Club Price: $1.70
Add to Bag
Add All Items to Cart
  • Category: Safety
  • Technique(s): Safety