DIY Gaskets - Japan Scissor Master

[Gromit]

I've been doing it wrong! (making DIY gaskets)

Part of the youtube video linked below (starting at minute 14:30 and ending at about 19:00) is of Hayashiya Shoraku a Japanese Scissor Master

He cuts these intricate shapes very accurately partly by using just the very tips of the scissors; and by holding the scissors relatively in the same plane and moving the paper instead of the scissors..

I tried his technique on a sheet of that 1/8" thick hobby-type foam to make a new seal for my backup taillight lens yesterday. It came out much better than my previous sad efforts at cutting gaskets; so it does work.

For perfectly round holes a set of hollow punches is still useful.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E7ZYmBYLUg

[leftybass209]

Yes it works, and I've done it several times. Mostly with gaskets that I purchased that were a weird color that didn't match what I was after, Ie: white or grey lens gaskets. I've sealed a lawnmower engine with gaskets made from a manila folder, and it never leaked a drop.

The only issue is the products used HAVE to withstand the torque specifications set by the manufacturer, and not break down due to elements or oils.

[GASoline71]

Have done similar gasket cutting myself.

I used to restore late 50's through late 70's Stihl, McCulloch, and Homelite chainsaws. Not many gaskets out there still available for those old magnesium beasts. So I made a lot of my own stuff with scissors and hole punches. Electrician/lineman scissors work great too, as they are short, stubby and sharp as a razor blade.

Gary

[68C15]

I've been using small snap blade utility knives to make gaskets.