Abstract: A blade holder for a manual cutting tool having a rigid open-ended frame shaped to provide support for a blade between the ends of the frame so that the cutting edge of the blade is proud of the ends of the frame, a clamp pivotally mounted on the frame, and a spring mounted on the frame and acting on the clamp. The clamp is moveable between an open position and a closed position. Manual pressure on the clamp against the spring forces the clamp apart from the ends of the frame to leave a gap (the open position) for the insertion or removal of a blade. Release of the manual pressure results in the spring holding the clamp against the ends of the frame (the closed position) so as to provide for retention of the blade in position between the clamp and the frame during a cutting operation.