Omar Khalid
Plastic packaging can be a nightmare to open. The struggle to get an item out of its protective plastic wrapping has even inspired the term wrap rage. Many tools can be used to open plastic packaging, but most are dangerous or tedious. Using a knife or scissors, for example, can be cumbersome and may result in injury. Some safer options include Slice's micro-ceramic-blade tools, aviation snips, and manual rotary can openers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Using sharp objects like knives, scissors, or blades can be dangerous and may cause injury |
| Ease of Access | Some packages have slits, perforations, or pop-together tabs that can be pulled apart, making them easier to open |
| Tools | Scissors, craft knives, box knives, tin/aviation snips, manual rotary can openers, safety cutters with micro-ceramic blades, precision cutters, and pen cutters |
| Technique | Cut carefully along the edge, avoiding the middle of the package to prevent damage to the product or instructions |
| Alternatives | Forcing the package open or using a serrated kitchen knife is not recommended due to the risk of injury and jagged edges |
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What You'll Learn
Using a craft knife or box knife
Craft knives and box knives are common tools used to open plastic packaging. However, they are dangerous and can cause nasty lacerations, so it is important to be cautious when using them. Before you begin, make sure you have a stable, flat surface to work on with enough room to work.
To start, find the sealed edges where the plastic is joined. Hold the knife at a shallow angle and carefully score along these seams, applying gentle pressure while keeping control of both the package and the knife. Do not cut too deeply into the plastic, as you may damage the product inside. Cut carefully all the way around the edge until the package easily opens. If you are right-handed, start cutting on the right side of the package and work your way around the perimeter. If you are left-handed, start on the left side.
It is important to stay focused while using a craft knife or box knife to open plastic packaging. Rigid PVC packaging can cause serious cuts, especially if you lose patience or try to open the package while distracted. Always put away your knives after use, especially if there are children in the house.
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![CANARY Box Opener Safe Mini Cutter 5" [No Blade], Non Sharp Extra Safety Package Opener Tool, Blue, Made in JAPAN](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Pa6QdRo4L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Aviation snips or tin snips
Aviation snips, also known as tin snips, are an effective tool for opening rigid plastic packaging. They are designed for cutting thin metal and can also be used to cut through plastic. Their compound hinge provides extra leverage, and their blades are not too sharp, making them safer to use than scissors.
When using aviation snips to open plastic packaging, it is important to choose a quality pair that will last for decades. Brands such as Wiss, Midwest, and Milwaukee offer good options, with the Wiss Straight-Cut Aviation Snips being recommended by some users. It is also worth considering the type of cut you need, as aviation snips come in various styles, including left cut, right cut, and straight cut. For most projects, a pair of left cut and right cut snips will be sufficient. Straight cut snips are considered less useful by some users, who claim they are rarely needed.
It is also important to note that aviation snips should not be used to cut hard wire, nails, or similar objects, as this can ruin the cutting edge. Additionally, when cutting, avoid fully closing the snips, as this can deform the plastic or metal sheet.
Overall, aviation snips are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including opening plastic packaging, cutting sheet metal, trimming, and fabricating parts. They are a valuable addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolbox, providing an easy way to tackle frustrating packaging and other cutting tasks.
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Scissors
If there are no tabs or perforations, you can use scissors or a knife to cut through the plastic. When using scissors, choose a pair with blunt tips to reduce the risk of injury. Work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the contents inside. It is also recommended to wear protective gloves and eye protection. Cut carefully around the edge of the package, avoiding the middle, as you could damage the product or instructions. If you are right-handed, start cutting on the right side, moving up and around the perimeter. If you are left-handed, start on the left.
While scissors can be used to open plastic packaging, other tools may be more effective and safer. Tin snips, for example, are designed for cutting thin metal and will cut through rigid plastic with ease. Rotary can openers can also be used to cut through the plastic without damaging your hands. Alternatively, specialised safety cutters with micro-ceramic blades are available, which are safer and longer-lasting than traditional blades.
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Micro-ceramic-blade tools
Plastic packaging can be a challenge to open, and often, people use dangerous tools such as ice picks, razor blades, and craft knives. Micro-ceramic-blade tools are a safer alternative for opening plastic packaging. These tools are small but capable of cutting through rigid plastic. They are excellent for use on clamshell packaging and blister packs. The micro-ceramic-blade is shallow enough that it will only cut through the plastic and not the contents inside. These tools are also ergonomic, helping to reduce hand and forearm fatigue.
Slice offers a range of micro-ceramic-blade tools, including the Slice 00100 Ceramic Blade Safety Cutter, which is perfect for opening clamshell packaging, coupon cutting, and scrapbooking. It features a minimally exposed micro-blade made of 100% zirconium oxide, which safeguards against injury. The Slice 00100 also has a built-in magnet and a key-ring hole, making it easy to carry around and store. The blade is durable, lasting 11 times longer than metal blades, and it never rusts. The Slice 00100 has a unique, ergonomic design and rubberized non-slip material, making it perfect for everyday use.
Slice also offers pen cutters with micro-ceramic blades, which are excellent for general cutting needs. These include the Manual Pen Cutter and the Auto-Retractable Pen Cutter. The choice between the two depends on the specific tasks, frequency of use, and the required level of safety. These pen cutters are also allowed in carry-on bags when travelling.
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Look for slits, perforations, or pop-together tabs
When faced with a tough plastic package, it's easy to get frustrated and reach for the nearest sharp object. However, before you start cutting, look for slits, perforations, or pop-together tabs that can help you open the package safely.
Some plastic packages now include consumer-friendly features such as slits, perforations, and other starting points for opening. These are usually found on the back or sides of the package. Perforations are a series of small holes or cuts that make it easier to open, tear, or separate the package. They are often used in dispenser boxes for items like tissues or wipes, allowing for easy access and controlled dispensing. So, check the back and sides of the package for any signs of these consumer-friendly openings.
If you find a perforated line or slit, you can simply tear along that line to open the package. This is a much safer option than using sharp objects, which can lead to injuries. It's also more convenient, as you don't need to search for tools or risk damaging the product inside.
If the package has pop-together tabs, you can simply pull them apart to open it. This design is often used to make the package more secure during shipping and to deter shoplifting. However, it can be frustrating for consumers, so look for these tabs first before attempting to cut open the package.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a craft knife, box knife, scissors, tin snips, aviation snips, or a serrated kitchen knife. However, these tools can be dangerous and may not be very effective.
Yes, there are safer tools available specifically for opening plastic packages, such as the Slice Safety Cutter and Precision Cutter, which feature micro-ceramic blades. These tools are designed to easily cut through rigid plastic while reducing the risk of injury.
Before attempting to cut open a clamshell package, check the back and sides for slits, perforations, or pop-together tabs that can be used as starting points for opening. Then, use a tool like a manual rotary can opener or a safety cutter to carefully cut along the edges of the package.
Using sharp tools like knives and scissors to open plastic packages can be dangerous, as people frequently cut themselves. It is important to use the right tool for the job and to be careful when handling sharp objects.
Yes, some plastic packages can be forced open without the use of sharp tools. However, this may not always be effective and could damage the contents inside. It is important to assess the package and choose the safest and most effective method for opening it.
