What is a hot knife?

A hot knife uses heat to cut through materials such as foam, plastic, and fabrics. The blade of a hot knife is usually made of steel or ceramic and is heated to a high temperature using an electrical or gas-powered heating element. The high temperature softens the material allowing it to be cut easily, with less resistance. Hot knives are commonly used in crafting, industrial manufacturing, and upholstery work. They can be handheld or mounted on a table, depending on the application. Safety precautions should be observed when using a hot knife since it can cause burns or fires if not handled properly.