Using a Rotary Cutter Makes your Quilting Quick and Easy ... Here are some Tips to Make the Most of your Rotary Cutter

Always cut away from your body – you have more pressure when you are pushing rather than pulling (besides, you are less likely to cut yourself)

Hold the cutter at an approximately 45º angle, which is the most natural position for your hand and arm.  If the cutter is to straight or too low, it’s uncomfortable to cut, and may cause injury over time.

Slide the cutter straight across in one stroke – do not make choppy or back-and-forth cuts.  This will help keep your cuts straight and the fabric edges clean.

Keep your rotary cutter sharp - many quilters change their blade before each big, new quilting project. An alternative to changing blades, is to buy a blade sharpener, and sharpen the blade yourself periodically.

If the cutter isn’t just gliding through the fabric, it might be time to change or sharpen the blade

If your self-healing mat isn’t self-healing (i.e., there are threads sticking out from grooves in the mat, your blade probably needs to be changed

Retract the blade after each cut – or buy a cutter that retracts all by itself

Keep even, firm pressure on the cutter as you slide through the fabric

Keep your cutting mat out of the heat and sun - it is likely to warp.  Avoid direct sun, the trunk of your car for long periods of time on warm days, and leaning against a wall in your house.

Use the grid lines on your cutting mat to help line up the fabric and your ruler.  You can check your measurements by squaring up the fabric between vertical and horizontal lines, and then lining up your ruler with the grid lines that extend beyond your fabric.

Happy Quilting!

Penny Halgren
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