What can I use that's longer lasting than cardboard for my project?

Question

Really I should use hardboard...but that will mean I have to buy a jigsaw which I dont want to do....is there anything else I can cut into shapes using a stanley knife (craft knife)....I know there's some really stiff card that you use to mount pictures but it is expensive,....any ideas?

Answer 1

Grey board comes in various thicknesses up to 1780 g/m2. It is dearer than it used to be but is still less expensive than mount board if you need a fair amount as it comes in big sheets.

If you need a white surface ask for display board.

The thicker weights are still quite hard to cut. If you need straight edges ask for it to be cut to the size you need. Otherwise use a scalpel and keep slicing it deeper until you have cut through.

Your local printer is your best source.

Answer 2

Balsa wood easy to cut and shape

Answer 3

Try using Linoleum .You can buy it in various thicknesses

Answer 4

I would use Mount board, it costs about £2-50 from Hobbycraft or any art shop. It comes in loads of colours also and is very durable. I use it for a load of craft projects including memory books as strong front and back pages.

If it is just strength you want and it doesn't need to be card based, why not try thick acetate, that gives a different look to your projects? I use that for templates.

Answer 5

How about 2mm hardboard (it's normally 4mm thick). It's used for picture framing, but you should be able to get it from good hardware stores, and you can cut it with a Stanley knife (but BE CAREFUL!).

This might not work so well if you have a lot of curved edges though

Answer 6

Try 1/2 inch thick polystyrene sheets. I bought something the other day and it had 4 large sheets of polystyrene packing in the box - there should be loads of it going free somewhere, but I don't know if you can buy it easily in a shop. Hope the idea works, but not much help on getting hold of any I'm afraid.

Answer 7

Plastic.

Answer 8

Sheets of wood, if too complicated, try polystyrene coated with a layer

or two of strong glue.

Answer 9

Coraplast.  It's a replacement for hardboard and used for making outdoor signs.  It is corrugated inside two finished smooth sides with a bit of a ripple in it.  It is lightweight and weatherproof.  I use it for various things and can cut it with a cheap utility knife.  It can be tricky cutting across the grain if you are doing shapes, but possible with some patience and care.