Why Aviation Snips Are a Makers Secret Weapon

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Compound lever (aviation) tin snips are an essential tool for all makers… perhaps even the most useful tool you can own!

Not only will they open up new creative opportunities, they’ll save you time and money.

How I use them

While their primary purpose is to cut through thin sheets of metal, they are exceptionally versatile. I use them to cut a wide range of materials… like these:

Material 1: I’ve made intricate cogs from the plastic lids, and an entire birdfeeder by cutting up a thick plastic folder.

Material 2: The sides of Soda cans are super easy to cut, even with scissors… but to cut through the bottom and top… you need aviation snips!

Material 3: If you come across any tin boxes (in the UK Quality Street sweets are sold in tin boxes)… buy them, and then buy aviation snips! I’ve made so many things out of sweet and biscuit tins using these snips.

Material 4: My other favourite thing to cut using aviation snips is… tin cans. Trickier than a tin box, because the sides are corrugated… but still very easy!

Other stuff they can cut

1. Vinyl Tiles
2. Furniture Felt Pads
3. Wire (upto around 1.5mm)
4. Wooden stirring sticks
5. Popsicle sticks
6. Craft sticks
7. Tupperware containers
8. Wellington boots
9. Space hoppers

Can they really save you money?

Yes, take a look at this tea light holder made from a tin can, it’s as elegant as anything you might find in a shop, but cost nothing to make!