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Member since 11/12/10
Posts: 40
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1 Replies
Posted on: 1/6/14 5:50 PM ET
Hi, all,

After a couple years of pattern making, I'm in the market for a 3/4" pattern/bunny punch so I can better work with oaktag and pattern hooks. In shopping online, I've seen the full-sized version in cast iron, mini punches in aluminum, and one that claims to be 'heavy duty' plastic.

I was wondering if anyone owned/had handled any of these punches in their various makes and had any particular sort to recommend or warn me away from. Are the cast iron ones that South Star Supply carries really $40 better than the cheap PGM plastic ones? Do they all cut equally well?

Would love to hear anyone's opinion on these. I haven't gotten a chance to check any of these tools out in person. Thanks!
  
Member since 6/8/09
Posts: 485
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Posted on: 1/6/14 9:27 PM ET
In reply to VolcanoMouse
The cast iron ones will last the rest of your life. The plastic one won't. Whether you'll use it enough to matter, of course, is known only to you.
  
Member since 1/12/05
Posts: 839
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Posted on: 1/7/14 9:28 AM ET
What David said. There is no comparison between the metal and plastic one.

As a bonus, if you break the plastic one, it can't be repaired. If you break the metal one (ears do break off), it can be welded back on.

If you're short on funds and need to save up for the metal one, you might consider buying a punch from a leather supply and whacking out holes with a hammer (over a wood block).
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http://fashion-incubator.com
Lessons from the sustainable sewing factory floor
  
Member since 11/12/10
Posts: 40
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Posted on: 1/7/14 2:21 PM ET
Thank you both very much! It look like I'll be going for the metal one. This seller on eBay seems to be offering the all-metal punch for $60 shipped, which sounds pretty reasonable for a tool that could last a lifetime.
  
Member since 7/3/03
Posts: 118
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Posted on: 1/7/14 2:46 PM ET
I love the cast iron punches. We used them when I was studying fashion design in college. Just be sure to keep your fingers clear of the punch, speaking as one with experience in this matter ;-)
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Swell Dame
  
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