Abstract: A contour cutting machine comprising a narrow band blade knife driven to oscillate in vertical or Z-direction, a cutting unit carrier having guides and driving means for guiding and driving first and second tool-carrying carriages horizontally in the direction of an Y-axis, and a table with divided plate for supporting and moving the workpiece horizontally in the direction of a X-axis, the table comprises first and second sliders for clamping the workpiece therebetween and moving same in the course of a cutting operation. The blade knife is rotatable about its longitudinal axis between the first and second tool carriages, to face in different directions of cut as required, and passes through a slot in the divided table plate. A hold-down means in the form of a sliding shoe may be provided to bear against the workpiece to prevent it from lifting away from the table plate.