As a Newbie with a mat, ruler and rotary cutter this video was very helpful - not only on how to use the rotary cutter but how to use the mat and ruler to get a straight cut - thanks
This is really helpful video I’m planning to buy a rotary cutting to use for our used clothes and cut it into strips as I’m going to use it for my crochet instead of using yarns. Thank you for sharing your idea.
I can't speak for all rotary cutters, but for mine, which is a fiskars, I can unscrew the blade and flip the blade to the otherside of the handle and screw it into place. This makes it left hand friendly. I cut with both hands so I do end up flipping my blade back and forth, depending on what feels more comfortable.
Piece of advice I learned the hard way: Make sure you hold the blade straight up-and-down when cutting. Especially when using the plastic ruler or thick plastic templates, it can be a temptation to angle the cutter in, as if it were a pencil, which gives a ragged edge. Press straight down, and press harder than you think you need to until you get used to using the rotary cutter.
Cont: The Trucut handle is very comfortable to use but you can't see the blade while you are cutting so was difficult to cut out patterns until I hacked it. I used nail polish to run a piece of thread along the cutter even with the blade. Worked like a charm.
Just got a rotary cutter and mat...wish i'd seen ur video first, then i'd have gotten a ruler too...love your video, its awesome! detailed, informative, covers all the points...and yes, the best vid i've seen so far on this topic.
I use a "T" square from drafting for my straight edge. Top "T" goes on the top of the mat. Can't miss. Really helped me make long straight cuts. I do appreciate your clear instruction on the cutter...the are very dangerous devices. I fear dropping one..ugh. Thanks again.
I wouldn't say it's better. 45mm is the most common, all-purpose blade. Big blades, like the 60mm will cut straight lines faster and can cut through more layers. Usually the smaller the blade, the better it is for going around curves and more tricky areas. But if you just want a single all-purpose blade, you'd be fine with a 45mm
Wow, thank you. I just got a rotary cutter and mat and ruler today from Joann fabrics. I got really lucky since each thing was 55 percent off. Yay. I didn't know how to use them. So thanks again. Best video I've seen so far. Love the username!
wonderful video! just what I was looking for, and masterfully done. I love your tips and tricks. I will definitely be watching more of your videos. Thanks for sharing your sewing and teaching talents with us!
I feel like you're a genius! LOL I am mostly self-taught (beyond jr.highschool home ec) and didn't know all these great tips for using my rotary cutter. so thank you! ~Amanda
Great tutorial! I've been having trouble trying to keep my patterns from shifting as I cut the fabric out. I've even resorted to taping the patterns to the fabric which has helped a lot.
Tiff G I know that you can also get a temporary spray adhesive for patterns. You might want to try this out as well. www.joann.com/temporary-pattern-spray-and-fix-adhesive/2158665.html
+Tiff G (2Tall2Pretty) pattern weights work as well as clean stones. Even plumbers washers from the hardware store. If you are going to use washers, just make sure they are even. You might need to cover them.
ahhh, thank you thank you thank you! "press down pretty hard" this answers half of my questions. Now I just have to find a tip for not deviate and eventualy damage my ruler cutting parts of acrylic off...
Jothunheim That (metal ruler) may also dull the blade faster (but the bigger issue is that they are thinner, so less protection for your hand). I will suggest that wide thicker plastic quit rulers work well. A thick aluminum ruler works as well. What I do do, is tend to angle the blade ever so slightly “toe in” so the front of the blade rolls along the edge of the ruler. That helps keep the cutter from wandering away from the ruler’s edge. I would suppose that after many, many cuts that practice would tend to slowly wear away at the ruler’s edge.
@@websherpa Hey friend, Thanks for the tip. I actually use a cutter with replaceable blades. So it doesn't bother me if the blade gets dull after a while.
Professor Pincushion , what puzzles me is when in the sewing process I use it. If I make the initial cut zigzagged, the edge isn't convenient to guide me when sewing. And if I do it after sewing (as I would with pinking shears), it probably won't be easy to cut.
mirisplace You can do it at both these stages. Personally, I would do it when cutting out the pattern. When I look at many of my old vintage patterns, I can tell this is what they did too. It may take some time to get used to using a pinked edge when sewing, but you can definitely do it. Just focus on matching the top of the zag to your needle plate guideline. It'll also keep your pieces from fraying while you work with them and when you finish your seam, it's already finished and you can leave as is, if you want.
You make it look really easy. I have tried to use rotary cutter on 2 different mats and all I end up is my fabric stuck in the mat ruining it. Not sure what am I doing wrong. Also, beware of the cheap mats. Some of them can have grid that doesn't match with the ruler. So you can't trust the numbers on them.
Is there any fabric you can’t cut with this? I had some flannel I was trying to cut (single layer) and my cutter wouldn’t get through it. Was a new cutter when I bought it and I’ve never been able to cut anything with it. And it’s a Fiskars!
That's a right-handed cutter, there are also lefty cutters, which is what I use, but the universals like the blue one will also for right and left hands. Nice video.
I don't know why not. I do find that if I'm using something like a regular yard stick, it doesn't stick as well and I have to be careful or have someone hold the end, otherwise one end will start to sneak over.
I'm rather embarrassed to admit that using a rotary cutter has always intimidated me. I'm still a beginner, but I can't wait to get my hands on one of these mats and give it a try!
I learned by experience that a metal ruler damages the blade of the cutter very quickly. If you turn towards it at all the blade gets a nick in it. Then even though the rest of the blade is still sharp you miss a spot every revolution where the blade got nicked.
Hi mam I am new to Ur channel. Which brand is good for rotary cutter. And mat. I am from Coimbatore where to buy in shop or online. If online means send the description mam
Nice job on the video. I've been doing a little crafting, sewing, and using a rotary cutter. I've been trying to be so careful and still my pieces are off sometimes. I know if I make a quilt in the future that will not be acceptable. Any idea what I may be doing?
No, because the blade will get nicks in it and start skipping at regular intervals. I learned the hard way. It is worth it to buy the rulers that go with the cutter. I personally fell in love with the Trucut system but this is my first rotary cutter so I am no expert. I like it because the cutter actually "hooks" onto the ruler so you can't go off if you are cutting a straight line.
I would do it in sections. If I fold it too much, my rotary cutter really has a hard time getting through all the layers and I have to keep going over it anyways.
hmmm....I do notice that the thicker the fabric is, the harder it is for me to get a nice, clean edge and I really have to apply pressure...but that could just be me and maybe I need to sharpen my cutter. As far as cutting through fabric with fiberglass, if I were you I would send an inquiry to the rotary cutter manufacturer. I honestly don't know what that would do to the blade.
I love watching your videos, so I am a subscriber. They are very easy to follow and understand. I have a fiskars rotary cutter, that cost me almost 15.00, but from watching your video, it doesn't appear that it is for left handed people. The one that both left and right handed people can use, was more than I could afford right now, so I am teaching myself to use the cutter, with my right hand. Now it seems though that I am doing the same thing with my right hand, that I was doing with my left, and that is, I keep veering off in the opposite direction, from the ruler. I don't know why I keep doing that, as I am trying very hard to cut in a straight line. I thought perhaps, you could give me some idea, why I keep doing this?
I understand as I'm not as steady with my cutting as I would like to be. I think the secret is having a nice sharp blade so you don't have to press down as hard. I think the more strain you have while pressing down, the more likely that you'll screw up. This is similar to the one that I have and you can unscrew the blade and switch sides to make it left handed. Using your dominant hand will also make it easier. www.walmart.com/ip/12335929?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227000157018&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=41991238990&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=34442428630&veh=sem And if you're still having trouble you can get a blade and ruler in one. It's pricey but more likely to be mistake free. www.allstitch.net/product/fiskars-rotary-cutter-and-ruler-combo-5207.cfm?aid=195130&sid=googlebase&gclid=CLuvpcTnzrwCFZFrfgodHmcA3A
Professor Pincushion Thanks so much for your reply! This is a new cutter that I have just started using. LOL Perhaps I am trying too hard, and pressing down harder than what I should. Also, I am going to keep that blade and ruler combination in mind. That looks really handy!
Professor Pincushion Hello again, I have been practicing and found that I can do it with my left hand, which is great. I also discovered that since my hands are small, that it worked better for me, to hold the cutter, with my hand positioned up on the handle, which gave me more control over the cutter. I thought I would post this, for others, who might have the same challenges as me. LOL
If there's a way to be perfect, I still haven't managed it. My things are usually a little off too no matter how careful I am. But I would check out my tutorial on "how to ease two pieces of fabric together". It's my way of cheating so everyone thinks my things are perfect. :) Just don't let it discourage you, it just takes practice.
Hi! I´ve got a question. I think I might be using my cutter in the wrong way because I leaned it vertically and now my cutter is flat! Is it wrong or did the product come in bad conditions?
I don't know what you mean by the blade is flat. Did the blade bend? If so, it might be defective. I've used my fiskars rotary cutter for many years now and never had an issue with it.
When I go to use my cutter without lining it up against a ruler the safety rotated with the blade and gets in the way. I have to keep moving it back and it mess up my cut. Do I have to use a ruler with it to keep the safety from rotating with the blade?
for me I have a hard time keeping the blade full up against my straight edge. It moves and then I get a rotary cut in my fabric that makes it look like it was done be a drunk person. any tips?
GirlGamer i had the same issue until i got a really thick quilting ruler like the kind from omnigrid. it gives you more of an edge ti follow. maybe that would help?
trust me im 18 years old en now quilting for about 3 months. i had to buy a new ruler because i hit my ruler with the blade like 1000 times also my mat was so damagedid. i didnt understand what people found handy about the cutter. but well my blade was just dull of the plastic ruler i hit constantly hahah. but now after all of that its easier than ever try not to bulk up fabric and if its nessecary. really make sure youre ruler dont move. check twice cut ones right haha succes though
I have an Olffa rotary cutter and mat but when I try cutting straight lines against a metal ruler, the cutter misses spots, I try pushing harder on it but it doesn't make much difference. when I tried to cut satin with it ,the rotary cutter cut right into my mat and didn't self heal itself.the satin went right into the mat so it was unable to self heal.This is getting very frustrating as I was so excited to finally get the new may and rotary cutter.I would appreciate any suggestions you might have
You're using a new blade and that's happening? yikes :( This happens to me, if I'm trying to cut through too many layers or I get lazy and try to do it on a carpet surface instead of my table. . You really should only be cutting through two layers or less.
yup! actually it's great for stretchy fabrics because it won't stretch the fabric while cutting. If your pieces on one the small side or really curvy, use the small size rotary cutter.
my fiskars rotary cutter is both for left handed and right handed. All you do to make it left handed, is to unscrew the screw that's in the middle of the blade and switch the blade to the other side of the handle and screw it in place
Professor Pincushion No wonder I go through blades and only be sewing a few months. It doesn't say in the directions on the rotary to change the blade to the other side, I never have. No wonder I can't cut a dang straight line against the ruler!! I'm left handed, so I just bought the rotary that said for left and right handed. I never changed blade! So, I'm holding ruler with right hand, cutting with left, so blade should be on inside closest to ruler and my body, correct? Sure wish I had you tubed 6 months ago, I've wasted so much fabric trying to cut a square, finally reverted back to scissors and cut two yards in 4" squares. And you wouldn't believe the money I have spent on grids, I have so many and still couldn't cut a straight line with rotary, I thought it was a curse being left handed. Shouldn't there be directions on the packaging? Or would that be just common sense for someone who sews? Lol omgee!! Hilarious! Just when I had decided to give up the rotary, thank you, I will change the blade side! Lol
I don't see why not but realize paper dulls blades so you won't be able to go back and forth from paper to fabric. At some point, it won't cut through fabric very well. But you can always buy replacement blades and have a paper one and a fabric one.
because I just pulled them from my cupboard and didn't want to take off all the labels and then forget what was actually in them. It made it less distracting then seeing all the labels. definitely don't think you have to do that. It was just for this demo
I haven't bought a mat or rotary cutter but knowing that I have to store it flat makes me wonder if I should buy one after all. I don't have a dedicated craft area.
+punstress I don't have a dedicated area either but if you look hard enough around your house you can find a flat storage place. Mine lives wrapped up under the bed, just so it doesn't get dusty.
hey tova! i have a question. ive seen so many cutting matts in stores (like joanns and walmart etc) all of them are rolled up in the packaging. isnt that a no-no? especially if its been sitting in inventory for quite a long time? would it be worth it to buy one?
I guess it depends on what it's made of but if it's like my mat, which is a hard plastic, I think it would be really hard to get it to stay flat once it's been rolled up for a long time. :( It's too bad they're storing it like this. If you're shopping for one, take it out and lay it on the floor and see how it lays.
Most of the ones ive seen you cant open it til after purchase. Theyre large andnrolled up but then are wrapped in cellophane, so theres ni way of knowing if it will lay flat :(
really, that's weird. I haven't seen those yet at my JoAnn's. The brand of my mat is an omnigrid which I think is one of the better brands, so maybe look for those. You can also find them online.
+Professor Pincushion thats a great idea. id love a rotary cutter, but theyre quite expensive at joanns(at least to me, because funds are tight), the rotary cutter is $30, but the cheapest matt is about $60
I think mine is fiskars which might be the only one you can get at the fabric store these days unless you get the cheap generic cutter. I only recently learned that fiskars and gingher is part of the same company so there aren't too many options. The other might be omnigrid and june tailor. Any of those brands should be fine.
no, but you do need to apply pressure and I would't do it on a surface without the mat because the blades are usually really sharp and will do damage to a regular tabletop
I always keep cutting the side ov my rulers, it’s ruined all my rulers any tips to stop me doing it? And why am I doing it, it’s so frustrating, all my rulers now have jagged edges,
hmmm...maybe stick on some exact-fitting cardboard under your ruler to increase the height. If the ruler is taller, you'll probably do it less...hopefully :)
I just learned what a Rotary Cutter is. Thank you. Got mine at a Goodwill Store has no idea what it was. Only took me 43 yrs to know of this tool.
As a Newbie with a mat, ruler and rotary cutter this video was very helpful - not only on how to use the rotary cutter but how to use the mat and ruler to get a straight cut - thanks
This is really helpful video I’m planning to buy a rotary cutting to use for our used clothes and cut it into strips as I’m going to use it for my crochet instead of using yarns. Thank you for sharing your idea.
I can't speak for all rotary cutters, but for mine, which is a fiskars, I can unscrew the blade and flip the blade to the otherside of the handle and screw it into place. This makes it left hand friendly. I cut with both hands so I do end up flipping my blade back and forth, depending on what feels more comfortable.
Piece of advice I learned the hard way: Make sure you hold the blade straight up-and-down when cutting. Especially when using the plastic ruler or thick plastic templates, it can be a temptation to angle the cutter in, as if it were a pencil, which gives a ragged edge. Press straight down, and press harder than you think you need to until you get used to using the rotary cutter.
Anna Inspain
I second this. I ruined so many cuts until i figured it out.
Cont:
The Trucut handle is very comfortable to use but you can't see the blade while you are cutting so was difficult to cut out patterns until I hacked it. I used nail polish to run a piece of thread along the cutter even with the blade. Worked like a charm.
Just got a rotary cutter and mat...wish i'd seen ur video first, then i'd have gotten a ruler too...love your video, its awesome! detailed, informative, covers all the points...and yes, the best vid i've seen so far on this topic.
Martelli makes wonderful rotary cutters and rulers that stay put while you are trying to cut. Highly recommend.
I use a "T" square from drafting for my straight edge. Top "T" goes on the top of the mat. Can't miss. Really helped me make long straight cuts. I do appreciate your clear instruction on the cutter...the are very dangerous devices. I fear dropping one..ugh. Thanks again.
Great video. Thank you. I wanted to mention that I use 2-1/2" washers from the hardware store as weights.
I do believe I will be able to cut a straight line thanks to your video. I'm very grateful and appreciate the time you took to make the video.
I wouldn't say it's better. 45mm is the most common, all-purpose blade. Big blades, like the 60mm will cut straight lines faster and can cut through more layers. Usually the smaller the blade, the better it is for going around curves and more tricky areas. But if you just want a single all-purpose blade, you'd be fine with a 45mm
Wow, thank you. I just got a rotary cutter and mat and ruler today from Joann fabrics. I got really lucky since each thing was 55 percent off. Yay. I didn't know how to use them. So thanks again. Best video I've seen so far. Love the username!
Where u bought in shop or through net. I am from Coimbatore is it useful. Price for all
wonderful video! just what I was looking for, and masterfully done. I love your tips and tricks. I will definitely be watching more of your videos. Thanks for sharing your sewing and teaching talents with us!
barrowisp Thanks for the kind words! I'm glad you're enjoying our tutorials :)
I feel like you're a genius! LOL I am mostly self-taught (beyond jr.highschool home ec) and didn't know all these great tips for using my rotary cutter. so thank you! ~Amanda
Thanks for this! So I'm new to sewing didn't know how to use it and I opened up the cover that concealers the blade eek!
Super helpful! I finally got a cutter and mat, and now I know how to use it. :)
Very good video. I just bought a rotary cutter at a Labor Day sale to make some new bowties, and your video was very helpful!
Denies Matlock thanks! I'm glad you found it helpful :)
Can i cut natural leather whith round cuter on that cuting board ?
Great tutorial! I've been having trouble trying to keep my patterns from shifting as I cut the fabric out. I've even resorted to taping the patterns to the fabric which has helped a lot.
Tiff G I know that you can also get a temporary spray adhesive for patterns. You might want to try this out as well. www.joann.com/temporary-pattern-spray-and-fix-adhesive/2158665.html
Ok thank you so much!
+Tiff G (2Tall2Pretty) pattern weights work as well as clean stones. Even plumbers washers from the hardware store. If you are going to use washers, just make sure they are even. You might need to cover them.
ahhh, thank you thank you thank you! "press down pretty hard" this answers half of my questions. Now I just have to find a tip for not deviate and eventualy damage my ruler cutting parts of acrylic off...
get a stainless steel ruler, it will solve your second problem.
Jothunheim That (metal ruler) may also dull the blade faster (but the bigger issue is that they are thinner, so less protection for your hand). I will suggest that wide thicker plastic quit rulers work well. A thick aluminum ruler works as well. What I do do, is tend to angle the blade ever so slightly “toe in” so the front of the blade rolls along the edge of the ruler. That helps keep the cutter from wandering away from the ruler’s edge. I would suppose that after many, many cuts that practice would tend to slowly wear away at the ruler’s edge.
@@websherpa Hey friend, Thanks for the tip. I actually use a cutter with replaceable blades. So it doesn't bother me if the blade gets dull after a while.
love to hear your advice on how (and when) to use the pinking blade!
mirisplace I would use the pinking blade when you plan on not finishing any edges. It helps keep the fabric from fraying. Hope this helps :)
Professor Pincushion , what puzzles me is when in the sewing process I use it. If I make the initial cut zigzagged, the edge isn't convenient to guide me when sewing. And if I do it after sewing (as I would with pinking shears), it probably won't be easy to cut.
mirisplace You can do it at both these stages. Personally, I would do it when cutting out the pattern. When I look at many of my old vintage patterns, I can tell this is what they did too. It may take some time to get used to using a pinked edge when sewing, but you can definitely do it. Just focus on matching the top of the zag to your needle plate guideline. It'll also keep your pieces from fraying while you work with them and when you finish your seam, it's already finished and you can leave as is, if you want.
You make it look really easy. I have tried to use rotary cutter on 2 different mats and all I end up is my fabric stuck in the mat ruining it. Not sure what am I doing wrong. Also, beware of the cheap mats. Some of them can have grid that doesn't match with the ruler. So you can't trust the numbers on them.
Is this item good for most fabrics?
This is very helpful. Thank you so much
love your videos, they are very detailed and informative and much appreciated for us beginners...
Thank you for this! I am trying to relearn how to sew and your videos are a big help!
Aw, I'm glad you're finding our tutorials helpful :)
Love the video! I'm new to sewing... this is very helpful! Thank you!
Is there any fabric you can’t cut with this? I had some flannel I was trying to cut (single layer) and my cutter wouldn’t get through it. Was a new cutter when I bought it and I’ve never been able to cut anything with it. And it’s a Fiskars!
That's a right-handed cutter, there are also lefty cutters, which is what I use, but the universals like the blue one will also for right and left hands. Nice video.
For dress making I cut out on the wrong side of the fabric and add an extra inch around the pattern edge for the seam allowance.
I don't know why not. I do find that if I'm using something like a regular yard stick, it doesn't stick as well and I have to be careful or have someone hold the end, otherwise one end will start to sneak over.
Do you need to hold it at 45° while cutting? I broke mine and then read somewhere it had to be held at 45°.What exactly is holding at 45°?
I love that Japanese print!
Awsome tool!
I know
I'm rather embarrassed to admit that using a rotary cutter has always intimidated me. I'm still a beginner, but I can't wait to get my hands on one of these mats and give it a try!
Helpful information, thank you for sharing !
great idea to use heavy objects to hold your fabric than pins. thanks ...subscribed 😊
+Farrah Aziz thanks for subscribing :)
Thanks for interesting video
I learned by experience that a metal ruler damages the blade of the cutter very quickly. If you turn towards it at all the blade gets a nick in it. Then even though the rest of the blade is still sharp you miss a spot every revolution where the blade got nicked.
Hi mam I am new to Ur channel. Which brand is good for rotary cutter. And mat. I am from Coimbatore where to buy in shop or online. If online means send the description mam
10 years! Wow. Like.
The Blades are extremely sharp, at 2:23 you can't resist to touch the blades, btw nice vid, thank you!
I feel silly asking but as I use the rotary cutter the guard travels along with the blade and gets in my way. What am I doing wrong?
Nice job on the video. I've been doing a little crafting, sewing, and using a rotary cutter. I've been trying to be so careful and still my pieces are off sometimes. I know if I make a quilt in the future that will not be acceptable. Any idea what I may be doing?
No, because the blade will get nicks in it and start skipping at regular intervals. I learned the hard way. It is worth it to buy the rulers that go with the cutter. I personally fell in love with the Trucut system but this is my first rotary cutter so I am no expert. I like it because the cutter actually "hooks" onto the ruler so you can't go off if you are cutting a straight line.
how would you cut 3 yards of fabric from 3 yards 60 inches to 3 yards, 20 inches? It is a lot of fabric. Do you do it in sections? do you fold it?
I would do it in sections. If I fold it too much, my rotary cutter really has a hard time getting through all the layers and I have to keep going over it anyways.
What about cleaning? What do you use to clean your cutters and Mats with?
here is a video on how to clean the mat ua-cam.com/video/-df_OULhpro/v-deo.html
Wonderful tutorial!
Do rotary cutters effectively work to cut any textile/fabric? Will it cut sheer tulle fabric, or lace fabric, etc?
it should. I've never had an issue as long as the blade was sharp.
hmmm....I do notice that the thicker the fabric is, the harder it is for me to get a nice, clean edge and I really have to apply pressure...but that could just be me and maybe I need to sharpen my cutter. As far as cutting through fabric with fiberglass, if I were you I would send an inquiry to the rotary cutter manufacturer. I honestly don't know what that would do to the blade.
really pretty fabric
do you mean an x-acto knife? You probably can as long as it's a new blade that hasn't been used on paper. Or you can use a smaller rotary cutter.
Thank you. Your videos are very helpful.
Glad to help :)
thank you. So helpful.
I love watching your videos, so I am a subscriber. They are very easy to follow and understand. I have a fiskars rotary cutter, that cost me almost 15.00, but from watching your video, it doesn't appear that it is for left handed people. The one that both left and right handed people can use, was more than I could afford right now, so I am teaching myself to use the cutter, with my right hand.
Now it seems though that I am doing the same thing with my right hand, that I was doing with my left, and that is, I keep veering off in the opposite direction, from the ruler. I don't know why I keep doing that, as I am trying very hard to cut in a straight line. I thought perhaps, you could give me some idea, why I keep doing this?
I understand as I'm not as steady with my cutting as I would like to be. I think the secret is having a nice sharp blade so you don't have to press down as hard. I think the more strain you have while pressing down, the more likely that you'll screw up. This is similar to the one that I have and you can unscrew the blade and switch sides to make it left handed. Using your dominant hand will also make it easier. www.walmart.com/ip/12335929?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227000157018&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=41991238990&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=34442428630&veh=sem And if you're still having trouble you can get a blade and ruler in one. It's pricey but more likely to be mistake free. www.allstitch.net/product/fiskars-rotary-cutter-and-ruler-combo-5207.cfm?aid=195130&sid=googlebase&gclid=CLuvpcTnzrwCFZFrfgodHmcA3A
Professor Pincushion
Thanks so much for your reply! This is a new cutter that I have just started using. LOL Perhaps I am trying too hard, and pressing down harder than what I should. Also, I am going to keep that blade and ruler combination in mind. That looks really handy!
Professor Pincushion
Hello again, I have been practicing and found that I can do it with my left hand, which is great. I also discovered that since my hands are small, that it worked better for me, to hold the cutter, with my hand positioned up on the handle, which gave me more control over the cutter.
I thought I would post this, for others, who might have the same challenges as me. LOL
It's 35" X 23". I like having a nice big mat but I could probably get away using a smaller size.
Hello. I am not sure if this question has been asked already, but can you use the rotary cutter on knit fabric?
yes you can
If there's a way to be perfect, I still haven't managed it. My things are usually a little off too no matter how careful I am. But I would check out my tutorial on "how to ease two pieces of fabric together". It's my way of cheating so everyone thinks my things are perfect. :) Just don't let it discourage you, it just takes practice.
Can a higher end rotary cutter cut through 945 gsm hardboard?
Hi! I´ve got a question. I think I might be using my cutter in the wrong way because I leaned it vertically and now my cutter is flat! Is it wrong or did the product come in bad conditions?
I don't know what you mean by the blade is flat. Did the blade bend? If so, it might be defective. I've used my fiskars rotary cutter for many years now and never had an issue with it.
When I go to use my cutter without lining it up against a ruler the safety rotated with the blade and gets in the way. I have to keep moving it back and it mess up my cut. Do I have to use a ruler with it to keep the safety from rotating with the blade?
You don't have to use a ruler and you usually only use it when doing straight edges. It just helps if you don't have a steady hand like me
for me I have a hard time keeping the blade full up against my straight edge. It moves and then I get a rotary cut in my fabric that makes it look like it was done be a drunk person. any tips?
honestly, it just takes practice. :)
me too , I can cut a slope real easy , but a straight line forget it !
GirlGamer
i had the same issue until i got a really thick quilting ruler like the kind from omnigrid. it gives you more of an edge ti follow. maybe that would help?
trust me im 18 years old en now quilting for about 3 months.
i had to buy a new ruler because i hit my ruler with the blade like 1000 times also my mat was so damagedid. i didnt understand what people found handy about the cutter. but well my blade was just dull of the plastic ruler i hit constantly hahah.
but now after all of that its easier than ever try not to bulk up fabric and if its nessecary. really make sure youre ruler dont move. check twice cut ones right haha succes though
For me the cloth makes lumps and moves when I'm trying to cut it, causing a rather messy cut...
nice explanation to understand. thanks
Thanks, glad you found our tutorial helpful :)
I have an Olffa rotary cutter and mat but when I try cutting straight lines against a metal ruler, the cutter misses spots, I try pushing harder on it but it doesn't make much difference. when I tried to cut satin with it ,the rotary cutter cut right into my mat and didn't self heal itself.the satin went right into the mat so it was unable to self heal.This is getting very frustrating as I was so excited to finally get the new may and rotary cutter.I would appreciate any suggestions you might have
You're using a new blade and that's happening? yikes :( This happens to me, if I'm trying to cut through too many layers or I get lazy and try to do it on a carpet surface instead of my table. . You really should only be cutting through two layers or less.
6:37 ARHHHHGGHHH push the button !
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wow thanks!
does this work with thick strechy fabrics like fleece and small round shapes like plushy patterns??
yup! actually it's great for stretchy fabrics because it won't stretch the fabric while cutting. If your pieces on one the small side or really curvy, use the small size rotary cutter.
Thank you for this!
will this work with stretchy fabric? and where can I get the mat and cutter and ruler???
yes. You can buy mats and cutters at any fabric or quilting store
nice safety tips.
Hi great video but you can buy rotary cutters for us left handers as well
my fiskars rotary cutter is both for left handed and right handed. All you do to make it left handed, is to unscrew the screw that's in the middle of the blade and switch the blade to the other side of the handle and screw it in place
Professor Pincushion No wonder I go through blades and only be sewing a few months. It doesn't say in the directions on the rotary to change the blade to the other side, I never have. No wonder I can't cut a dang straight line against the ruler!! I'm left handed, so I just bought the rotary that said for left and right handed. I never changed blade! So, I'm holding ruler with right hand, cutting with left, so blade should be on inside closest to ruler and my body, correct? Sure wish I had you tubed 6 months ago, I've wasted so much fabric trying to cut a square, finally reverted back to scissors and cut two yards in 4" squares. And you wouldn't believe the money I have spent on grids, I have so many and still couldn't cut a straight line with rotary, I thought it was a curse being left handed. Shouldn't there be directions on the packaging? Or would that be just common sense for someone who sews? Lol omgee!! Hilarious! Just when I had decided to give up the rotary, thank you, I will change the blade side! Lol
The rotary cutter can be adjusted so you can use it with your left hand . That is what I did with my rotary cutter
Can it cut polar fleece?
@Professor Pincushion. Can you use this to cut through paper?
I don't see why not but realize paper dulls blades so you won't be able to go back and forth from paper to fabric. At some point, it won't cut through fabric very well. But you can always buy replacement blades and have a paper one and a fabric one.
Maybe I missed it but did you paint all of your cans pink or wrap them in pink paper?
because I just pulled them from my cupboard and didn't want to take off all the labels and then forget what was actually in them. It made it less distracting then seeing all the labels. definitely don't think you have to do that. It was just for this demo
@@ProfessorPincushion Actually I love the idea, it is definitely less distracting.
I haven't bought a mat or rotary cutter but knowing that I have to store it flat makes me wonder if I should buy one after all. I don't have a dedicated craft area.
+punstress I don't have a dedicated area either but if you look hard enough around your house you can find a flat storage place. Mine lives wrapped up under the bed, just so it doesn't get dusty.
Try under the bed or behind something. I keep mine behind the bed - with the bed keeping it flush against the wall it doesn't warp
What is brand of the large rotary cutter please?
that's a great point!
Can it cut plastic sheet?
hey tova! i have a question. ive seen so many cutting matts in stores (like joanns and walmart etc) all of them are rolled up in the packaging. isnt that a no-no? especially if its been sitting in inventory for quite a long time? would it be worth it to buy one?
I guess it depends on what it's made of but if it's like my mat, which is a hard plastic, I think it would be really hard to get it to stay flat once it's been rolled up for a long time. :( It's too bad they're storing it like this. If you're shopping for one, take it out and lay it on the floor and see how it lays.
Most of the ones ive seen you cant open it til after purchase. Theyre large andnrolled up but then are wrapped in cellophane, so theres ni way of knowing if it will lay flat :(
really, that's weird. I haven't seen those yet at my JoAnn's. The brand of my mat is an omnigrid which I think is one of the better brands, so maybe look for those. You can also find them online.
+Professor Pincushion thats a great idea. id love a rotary cutter, but theyre quite expensive at joanns(at least to me, because funds are tight), the rotary cutter is $30, but the cheapest matt is about $60
also check amazon for prices. I'm always surprised what I can find on their site, even sewing stuff :)
Which company's cutter do u suggest
I think mine is fiskars which might be the only one you can get at the fabric store these days unless you get the cheap generic cutter. I only recently learned that fiskars and gingher is part of the same company so there aren't too many options. The other might be omnigrid and june tailor. Any of those brands should be fine.
I bought a rotary cutter a couple days ago.. but it wouldn't work.. do i need the cutting mat to make the cutter work?
no, but you do need to apply pressure and I would't do it on a surface without the mat because the blades are usually really sharp and will do damage to a regular tabletop
@@ProfessorPincushion thank you :))
OK! Once again, what is the brand of the large rotary cutter please?
Phyllis St Amant the brand is Fiskars
+Professor Pincushion which brand is your mat , that last 10 years , mine wont seem so ...reply please !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
+simply sidra it's olfa. I've had it for at least 15 years and it's still going strong
Professor Pincushion thanks much for quick response. which size you would suggest 18"/24" or 24"/36"?
I just got a big rotary mat
this is wounderful
Can it cut foam?
I always keep cutting the side ov my rulers, it’s ruined all my rulers any tips to stop me doing it? And why am I doing it, it’s so frustrating, all my rulers now have jagged edges,
hmmm...maybe stick on some exact-fitting cardboard under your ruler to increase the height. If the ruler is taller, you'll probably do it less...hopefully :)
me too! I have to press down pretty hard. But it's still sharp enough to slice my finger. I don't get it.
Very nice
I bought the friskars cutter sucks at cutting what’s a good cutter for bullet fabric ?
Same here. I think they are expensive for their quality. I ended up cutting with scissors when the Fiskars did not cut the fabric.
Oneday Soon same I ended up using scissors
Will the rotary cutter work with polar fleece
Lindz Ware Yes, but I usually cut one layer at a time instead of trying to do it folded.
8:18 You can buy a bag of hockey pucks for $10-$15. they work great!
I JUST BOUGHT MY FIRST CUTTER....SEEING HOW YOUR USING IT...IT'S GOT ME THINKING..I'M LEFT HANDED...ARE THERE CUTTERS FOR LEFT HANDED PEOPLE?
For the most quality cutters, like my grey and orange fiskars, you can unscrew the blade and flip it to the other side. :)
drop the Caps!!!!!!!!!
I was wondering what is the size of your self healing mat?
great video, where can i buy those big rulers,x
I got mine at Joann's but you should be able to find it at any fabric or quilt store.
can a rotary cutter be used for paper only? (like papercrafting.)
sure. Just realize you'll have to put in a new blade if you ever want to cut fabric
@@ProfessorPincushion thank you. yea i almost never do fabric. but i am searching for a reliable alternative to scalpels for papercrafting.
Hi
can i use this to cut foam board straight ?
sure but it may dull the blade and make it unusable for fabric cutting afterwards. maybe buy the cheap one for cutting foam board
Can rotary cutter cut in 6pcs of fabric including microfibre and PUL?
Nor Azlin Kamarudin It'll probably have a tough time with it. You might have to go over it several times
Thanks heaps! Will buy it this weekend
Is it common for the blade to loosen up and wobble
what? No! maybe the screw in the center of the blade is lose. Don't use it if it's wobbling
That’s what I mean. The screw won’t stay tight
35" X 23" I don't know if that's the biggest size mat, but it's pretty big
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