What is draw filing?
What is draw filing?
Draw filing is a technique used for producing smooth, square edges, particularly on pieces of metal. The process works by moving any type of single-cut file forwards and backwards along the length of the material’s edge.
By holding the file at 90° to the workpiece, the file’s teeth can cut on both the forward and the backward movement of the file. Draw filing is just one method to file material and can be done with a range of file designs. Read ‘what are the different types of file?‘ to find out what files are available.
Step by Step Guide to Draw Filing
Step 1 - Prepare Workpiece
Clamp the object you are going to be filing into a vice so that it is secure and doesn’t wobble around.
Don’t forget to use a filing block!
Clamp the object you are going to be filing into a vice so that it is secure and doesn’t wobble around. Don’t forget to use a filing block!
Step 2 - Grip File Securely with Both Hands
Grip each end of the file securely in the same way as you would grip the handlebars on a bicycle.
In order to file most effectively, it’s important that you are in control over the file to apply force in the correct areas.
Grip each end of the file securely in the same way as you would grip the handlebars on a bicycle. In order to file most effectively, it’s important that you are in control over the file to apply force in the correct areas.
Step 3 - Push Stroke
Standing at the side of the workpiece, slide the file forwards along the length of the area you want to smooth, applying light pressure.
As with cross filing, make sure the pressure you apply is light to avoid breaking your file’s teeth or clogging them with material, or causing chattering.
Standing at the side of the workpiece, slide the file forwards along the length of the area you want to smooth, applying light pressure.
As with cross filing, make sure the pressure you apply is light to avoid breaking your file’s teeth or clogging them with material, or causing chattering.
Step 4 - Draw Stroke
Slide the file backwards along the length of the workpiece until you reach your starting position.
Apply the same pressure as you did on the push stroke.
Slide the file backwards along the length of the workpiece until you reach your starting position. Apply the same pressure as you did on the push stroke.
Step 5 - Repeat Process
Repeat this technique until the area you are working on is filed to a smooth finish.
Repeat this technique until the area you are working on is filed to a smooth finish.
