How to Cut Chicken Wire Cleanly and Safely
Cutting chicken wire (also known as hexagonal wire netting or poultry netting) is straightforward once you know the right technique. Taking a few extra minutes to measure properly and cut neatly will make installation quicker and give you a much cleaner finished fence.
Whether you’re building a chicken run, protecting garden beds, or installing general-purpose wire fencing, following these steps will help you get professional-looking results.
Cutting chicken wire with wire cutters
What you’ll need
Before you start, make sure you have:
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Gloves (strongly recommended, wire edges are sharp)
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Marker, chalk, or spray paint (optional, for marking cut lines)
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A flat surface or fence rail to work against
If you’re working alone, having a second pair of hands can help keep the wire under tension while cutting.
Step-by-step: How to cut chicken wire
1. Roll out and measure first
Unroll the wire netting along your fence line, rails, or ground where it will be installed. Measure the length you need carefully and allow a small amount of extra wire at each end so you can trim precisely once positioned.
If you’re cutting multiple sections, mark your measurements clearly to avoid waste.
2. Follow the mesh pattern
Instead of cutting randomly across the netting, follow one continuous line of the hexagonal mesh. Snipping along a straight row gives you:
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A cleaner edge
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Easier fixing to posts and rails
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Less twisting and distortion
Cut one wire strand at a time using your cutters, moving steadily along the same line.
3. Keep control of both sides
As you cut, the wire can spring back slightly. Always keep hold of both sides of the netting to prevent sudden movement and avoid scratches or snapped strands.
This is where gloves really help.
4. Tidy sharp ends
Once cut, the wire edges will be sharp. For a safer and neater finish, twist or fold the loose ends back into the mesh using your cutters or gloved hands.
This step is especially important if the fence will be near pets, children, or walkways.
5. Fix straight away
As soon as your section is cut, fix it to your rails or posts while it’s still aligned. Pull the netting tight by hand and secure it using galvanised netting staples, working methodically along each rail.
Staple spacing should be even to prevent sagging and help the fence stay tight over time.
Helpful tips for better results
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Cut with the wire under light tension for cleaner snips
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Always work from one end to the other, not in random sections
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Install from a corner or end post and work along the fence line
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For longer runs, fix one side first, then pull tight before stapling the opposite side
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Store offcuts safely as loose wire can be sharp and easily stepped on
Common mistakes to avoid
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Cutting without measuring properly, leading to short sections
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Leaving sharp wire ends exposed
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Stapling before the netting is pulled tight
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Cutting across the mesh instead of following a straight line
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Trying to cut with blunt tools (this distorts the wire and slows you down)
With the right preparation and tools, chicken wire is quick to work with and extremely versatile. Clean cuts, tidy edges, and consistent fixing will give you a stronger fence and a much more professional finish, whether you’re building a poultry enclosure, garden boundary, or general outdoor fencing system.
Looking for more information on Chicken Wire Fencing?
Read our Larger more comprehensive blog how to install a chicken wire fence.
