Chompsaw

The ChompSaw is a kid-safe cardboard cutter with no sharp blade, so SEND children with dyspraxia (DCD), ADHD or autism can cut their own shapes and build 3D models independently. This collection brings together the ChompSaw, its precision accessories, project packs and replacement parts for home and school making.

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The ChompSaw works like a very fast hole punch. A small oscillating cutting head nibbles through cardboard up to about 3mm thick, and the scraps drop into a built-in drawer. Chompshop designs it so it will not cut fingers or snag hair or clothing, and states it has been independently tested to children's safety standards in the UK and EU for ages 3 and up, with UKCA and CE marking.

How does the ChompSaw help children with dyspraxia, ADHD and autism?

The NHS notes that children with dyspraxia (DCD) may have difficulty with writing, drawing and using scissors. With the ChompSaw, the child guides the cardboard across a flat surface while the machine does the cutting, so there is no squeezing or sustained grip involved. Children with ADHD get a quick, visible result that keeps a project moving. For autistic children who are sensitive to sound, Chompshop suggests ear protection, as it runs at about 70 to 75 decibels.

Which ChompSaw tools and accessories do I need?

Start with the ChompSaw kid-safe cardboard cutter. The Table Accessories Set adds a fence for straight cuts, a circle guide and an angle guide, which help children who find it hard to follow a drawn line. The hole punch and scoring tool cover joining and folding, and the Inventor's Workbook gives step-by-step projects. Keep a ChompSaw Refresh Kit to replace the cutting head when it wears.

How do schools use the ChompSaw in SEND and design and technology lessons?

The Design and Technology Association stocks the ChompSaw for primary, SEND and secondary D&T classrooms. SENCOs and teachers use it in design and technology, STEM clubs and small-group interventions, where pupils who struggle with scissors can still take part in the cutting stage. Our SEND specialists suggest pairing it with clear visual project steps and short sessions, and adding it to a wider fine motor skills plan.

Is the ChompSaw a good choice for making at home?

Yes, for many families. Delivery boxes and cereal packets become free building material, and children can make vehicles, games and models with an adult nearby. It suits children who enjoy hands-on projects but find craft knives and scissors frustrating. You can explore more ideas for dyspraxia and ADHD across our range, or browse painting, colouring and crafts.

Browse the ChompSaw range below, or get in touch for school orders and advice on setting up a making station.

 

Need advice? Call us to have a chat - 01394 671 818 or email us hello@thedyslexiashop.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

How does the ChompSaw cut without a sharp blade?

The ChompSaw cuts like a very fast hole punch rather than a saw. A small oscillating cutting head sits inside a safety guard and nibbles tiny pieces out of the cardboard, which fall into a built-in drawer. The child pushes the cardboard across the cutting surface to follow their line, so there is no exposed blade or spinning disc for SEND learners to manage.

What age is the ChompSaw suitable for?

Chompshop recommends the ChompSaw for ages 3 and up, and says it has been independently tested to children's safety standards for that age group. Younger children will need an adult alongside them. The Design and Technology Association suggests the full Maker Bundle for ages 8 and up, because some of the hand tools need more dexterity than the ChompSaw itself.

Is the ChompSaw safe for children, and can it cut fingers?

Chompshop designs the ChompSaw so it will not cut fingers or snag hair or clothing. The cutting head is recessed behind a guard that is too small for fingers to fit inside, and the ChompSaw carries UKCA and CE marking. As with any powered tool, we recommend adult supervision, especially for young children or those who are new to the tool.

What materials can the ChompSaw cut?

The ChompSaw is designed for cardboard up to about 3mm thick, such as delivery boxes and cereal packets. Chompshop says it also works with thinner, softer materials including felt, fabric and craft foam, although it does not guarantee results with them. It must never be used on metal. For very thick cardboard, use the scoring tool to compress the cutting line first.

How loud is the ChompSaw, and is it suitable for autistic children?

Chompshop states that the ChompSaw runs at about 70 to 75 decibels, which it compares to a household vacuum cleaner. Many autistic children enjoy hands-on making, but those who are sensitive to sound may prefer to wear ear defenders. Introduce the noise gradually, let the child press the button themselves, and keep sessions short at first so the experience stays predictable.

Is the ChompSaw suitable for school design and technology lessons?

Yes. The Design and Technology Association stocks the ChompSaw for primary, SEND and secondary design and technology classrooms. Schools use it in D&T, STEM clubs and SEN intervention groups, where pupils who struggle with scissors can still complete the cutting stage. A replacement cutting head is available through the ChompSaw Refresh Kit, which helps schools keep the tool running across several year groups.

Can a child with dyspraxia use a ChompSaw at home?

Yes. The NHS notes that children with dyspraxia (DCD) may have difficulty using scissors, and the ChompSaw removes most of that demand. Instead of squeezing handles while steering a blade, the child slides cardboard across a flat surface while the machine cuts. That makes it easier to finish a home project, such as a cardboard car or a ball-rolling game, with an adult nearby.