Robert,
One of the other important issues to remember when working with PE, whether using a steel rule or tool, is to anneal the item.
To do this simply, heat the part in a gas flame until it glows cherry red, a matter of seconds is all that is required, then let it simply cool in the air, again seconds. You will find that the metal is now mallable and will fold or bend much easier.
One thing, very small item scan be annealed, but you have to watch or they may turn into a molten globule. I tend to do things like tool clasps etc, as they come off the fret. When you anneal metal, there is much less chance of getting fractures.
I hope this helps you, have fun.
John
