I am making a metal sculpture and I want to cut shapes out of sheet metalI was using a plasma cutter but it doesn't cut nicelyIt melted the edges causing the melted pieces to build up on the edges and discolors the metal, making it look uglyIt's a bit too thick, I think, for sheersI was wondering if there is something else I can tryI am willing to try anythingI just want to find the best way to get shapes out of sheets of metal so I can put the pieces together to make a 3 dimensional sculpture.
Use a jig saw with a proper bladeIf that's too big, use a coping saw or jeweler's sawThe only other ways to get those clean cuts would be laser or water jet, which aren't cheapThere are also power shears out there - you could rent - that would do itFlat pieces with clean edges is sawing work unless you go high tech, like water jetJig saw - put masking tape on your sawing path to protect the finishAluminum is an option but it's soft, more expensive, a different patina in the end, and a to weld, if that matters.
