Vinyl w/ Speaker Panel Holes/Slots

[CWorley]

If you're making a speaker panel and you use a pattern of holes or a Donkey Kong slot pattern, can you use vinyl to cover the panel?  Will an x-acto knife work well to cut out each hole or slot?  Or would that look sloppy?  I wouldn't think you'd want to apply the vinyl before you drill the holes/slots.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[PL1]

I wouldn't think you'd want to apply the vinyl before you drill the holes/slots.

Vinyl + Drill = FAIL

You're almost certain to get tearing and a ragged edge.

The best way I found for long straight cuts is to apply the vinyl, turn the piece vinyl-side down on a cutting surface, then cut from the underside of the vinyl using the vertical edge of the wood to guide the flat of the blade. 

For tight turns and small radius cuts, you'll want to cut in from the vinyl side.

Like Rikitiki says in the Side Art Install 101 thread videos, take your time and use a fresh blade.

You did watch these videos, right?  There's nothing like seeing a pro in action to figure out how to do something.


Scott