Hidden Threads

Most if not all rotary cutters have safety retractors. These are usually buttons on the handle that retract the blade. Some have an added safety feature that automatically retracts the blade when your hand isn’t on the handle of the tool.

Selecting the Right Size Rotary Cutter

Rotary cutters are typically available in three sizes: 28mm, 45mm, and 60mm. Of the three, the 45mm is the most commonly used, although any one of the three sizes can be the best choice for specific tasks. The smaller, 28mm, is great for going around templates with curves, and the 60mm has a deeper blade that is handy for cutting through multiple layers of fabric. Most seasoned quilters have two if not all three sizes in their sewing rooms.

Avoid Hand Stress

Working with any hand tool over time can lead to hand fatigue. If you have problems with your hands, there are a number of rotary cutters available that provide a good grip and an optimized cutting angle that will help you avoid hand stress.

Good Rotary Cutter Safety Practices

Rotary cutters can be dangerous. They are wonderful tools, but use them with caution. There are gloves on the market that will protect  your hand holding the fabric (This is the hand that’s at the greatest risk of getting nicked accidentally), and they’re not very expensive either. Investing in one of these gloves is a good idea.

Using a rotary cutter will help increase your accuracy, and will also help speed up the process of creating your quilt. Speed, though, isn’t your first consideration when working with a rotary cutter. Use caution whenever cutting. Be sure you have a flat surface, good lighting, and are alert to what you are doing (no midnight fabric cutting marathons).

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