HOZO Launches Hobby Knife on Kickstarter, Reimagining Precision Cutting for Makers

HOZO, a company specializing in advanced tools for makers, has announced the launch of its new HOZO Hobby Knife on Kickstarter. As the brand’s first non-electric craft tool, the Hobby Knife reimagines precision cutting with a press-to-release blade mechanism inspired by the simplicity of using a ballpoint pen.

Designed for convenience, control, and portability, the tool replaces traditional screw-tightening with a simple press-to-release action. Its full-aluminum hexagonal handle features a raised ring and textured grip for a secure, comfortable hold, while a stainless steel magnetic collet and modular blade system help streamline the cutting experience.

A versatile precision tool for makers

The HOZO Hobby Knife is designed for a broad range of creative disciplines, including card making, leathercraft, 3D printing, woodcraft, Gundam and military model building, architectural modeling, jewelry making, scrapbooking, cosplay prop creation, dioramas, and sticker making.

Its compact design allows makers to work at home, in the workshop, or on the go. By combining a precision cutting tool with an integrated cutting workspace, HOZO aims to make creative projects more convenient without requiring a dedicated desk or separate cutting mat.

A portable workspace with flexible configurations

The Hobby Knife features a slide-and-unfold design that transforms its compact case into a ready-to-use cutting surface. The system is designed to accommodate different DIY workflows, from compact storage to an expanded workspace.

The four configurations described by HOZO include:

Mode 1: Compact storage. Keep the case closed for convenient storage in a bag and easy transport.
Mode 2: Desktop setup. Place the tool on a desk as part of an existing creative workspace.
Mode 3: Ready-to-cut surface. Open the case to access a cutting surface without carrying a separate mat or cutting directly on a table.
Mode 4: Expanded workspace. Slide out and flip open the case to provide a larger cutting area for more demanding projects.

This adaptable design is intended to help makers transition between different working environments while keeping essential tools close at hand.

A modular blade system for different techniques

The HOZO Hobby Knife offers 10 blade and tool options for a range of materials and techniques, including everyday cutting, detailed carving, sawing, and filing.

Six versatile flat blades address common cutting tasks, with standard, long, curved, and double-edge configurations designed for different applications.

The selection is complemented by specialized tools, including a saw, a metal file, and two gouges. The saw and file support work that requires cutting tougher materials or refining edges, while the U-shaped gouge creates rounded grooves and the V-shaped gouge produces sharp, defined lines.

Together, these options give makers more flexibility to switch between cutting, shaping, and finishing tasks using a single tool system.

Eight of the blades are also compatible with the HOZO NeoBlade Ultrasonic Cutter, allowing users to integrate the Hobby Knife into a broader HOZO tool setup.

Quick blade changes with a magnetic holder

At the core of the HOZO Hobby Knife is a stainless steel magnetic collet and a contact-free blade replacement system designed to simplify blade changes while reducing the need to handle blades near their cutting edges.

The magnetic blade holder works with a modular storage case featuring dedicated magnetic slots. These slots are designed to hold spare blades point-down and keep them securely in place, helping prevent unwanted movement or rattling during transport.

An automatic blade feed system is also designed to make replacement blades easier to access.

The combination of quick-release functionality, magnetic retention, and organized storage aims to make blade changes more convenient while keeping the tool and its accessories neatly arranged.

An ergonomic handle built for precision

The Hobby Knife’s full-aluminum hexagonal handle is designed to prevent the tool from rolling when placed on a work surface.

A raised ring and textured grip provide additional control during detailed work, while the balanced construction is intended to deliver a natural feel in the hand.

These design features focus on the stability and handling needed for intricate tasks, where precise movements and consistent control are important.

Part of HOZO’s connected Neo workflow

The HOZO Hobby Knife is designed to fit into the company’s broader Neo workflow, which connects different stages of making, including measuring, marking, cutting, and sanding.

The Neo series brings together tools intended to support different parts of the creative process, allowing makers to build a workflow around the needs of their projects.

With the Hobby Knife, HOZO extends this approach beyond electric tools into manual precision cutting, while maintaining compatibility with selected products in its existing ecosystem.

Supporting the maker community through MakerWorld

Beyond its hardware, HOZO is expanding its maker community on MakerWorld, where creators can access a collection of open-source models to download, 3D print, customize, and incorporate into their projects.

The initiative gives makers additional opportunities to experiment with designs, modify existing models, and develop their own creative ideas.

By combining portable precision tools, a connected workflow, and community-driven resources, HOZO aims to give makers more flexibility throughout the creative process.

HOZO Hobby Knife: Features and specifications

Design: Full-aluminum hexagonal handle designed to prevent rolling, press-to-release blade changes, and balanced construction intended to support comfortable, controlled precision work.

Blade system: Stainless steel magnetic collet, contact-free blade replacement system, magnetic blade holder, modular blade case, and dedicated magnetic slots designed to hold blades point-down and reduce movement during transport.

Configuration: Slide-and-unfold case design with multiple workspace configurations. HOZO describes four operating modes in the product overview, while the specifications section highlights three working modes and an expanded cutting area.

Blade options: Six flat blade configurations and four specialized tools for cutting, carving, sawing, and filing.

Compatibility: Eight blade options are compatible with the HOZO NeoBlade Ultrasonic Cutter.

Applications: Card making, leathercraft, 3D printing, woodcraft, Gundam and military models, architectural models, jewelry making, scrapbooking, cosplay props, dioramas, and sticker making.