The Board
Gliding Story
I was 14 when my dad started taking me to work with him plastering and general building. He taught me a method he called "board gliding" or the finger trick — a fast way to mark and score plasterboard. I was amazed: no levels, no straight edges, just a clean glide to create parallel, accurate lines.
Working at speed though, I began to get friction burns, splinters and cuts. Gloves felt restrictive and temporary fixes like tape didn't last. I practised the technique until it became second nature, but I kept thinking there had to be a better way.
Something that would protect hands, work with standard tape measures and marking tools, and be durable enough for daily site use.
Why we built it
- To reduce injuries from repeated scoring and marking
- To speed up marking long runs with consistent accuracy
- To create a tool that integrates with existing tape measures and pens
- To make the board gliding technique accessible and safe for everyone
After trying bulky, integrated tools that broke or got in the way, I designed the retractable SafeCut board glider: compact, clip-to-your-trousers convenience, a gliding face that reduces friction, and a guard that prevents burns and splinters.
I've used the tool for over two years with no burns, splinters or lost tools — and customers report the same. Hands build futures. Protect them at all costs.
