Safety tips for using the rotary cutter. 1- always use a sharp blade. When the blade gets dull, or you've put a nick in it, you'll use more pressure to make it cut - then slip ups can be disasterous. Remember the blade is as sharp as a scalpel, and a new blade is better than having surgery to repair fingers. 2- Use rulers meant for rotary cutting. Slim rulers allow the blade to ride up over it putting your fingers in jeopardy, 3- use the right rotary cutter for the job. There is a 28mm for tiny curves, the 45 mm is for general use, 65mm is for thicker fabrics or thick layers. 4- allow for the curve of the blade when cutting into corners - stop just shy of the corner so it doesn't over shoot the corner. You'll have to do the finishing with a pair of scissors, or use a ruler meant for corners that will allow you to overshoot the edge by the exact amount you need to cut the corner. and 5- never, NEVER cut towards you. Cut away from you. Don't cut cross-handed. Turn your work , or the mat so that you cut in the right direction.
I break several of those rules. But that's unique to me and my arthritic hands. One rule that you forgot is always always always retract the blade when you are finished cutting. If you're going to put down that blade for even a second, retract it. If you don't, you're going to end up bleeding all over your fabric. I've had to learn that rule several times.
@@broganmckoko Or think you’ve picked up the tracing paper wheel when you haven’t. Uhoh. I have picked up the rotary cutter by mistake numerous times, but always caught myself before ruining my fabric.
Thank you for these tips! I bought one because it was there. I'm a very new sewist and didn't know there were actual steps to using the rotary cutter. It was frustrating, so I felt like I didn't know anything. I'll try your tips!
If you get a 6 1/2" by 24" quilting ruler it will have a 45 degree line marked on it that will help to line up bias strips. There are rotary cutters available with handles at right angles to the blade for both left and right handed people if you have hand issues, they make it easier to control. Agree with the rest of the comments about sizes of blades and safety. It is possible to get large mats that will accommodate most pattern pieces. I use a large magnetic whiteboard under my cutting mat and skittle shaped magnets to hold the fabric and paper patterns in place, much quicker and flatter than using pins.
I have hard time with scissors due to a major injury several years ago. I love my rotary cutter. For Christmas one year I got this device that attaches to it . The device moves back & forth and allows me to do seam allowances . I always make sure I can fit all my pattern pieces on my fabric then I will put what I can on top cut those out then bring up my remaining fabric and cut those out. I will also make sure my remaining fabric is on straight of grain and of course is straightened out & wrinkle free. I will admit going around tight curves can be difficult, but what I do is to just marked out a few spots with friction pins or chalk with my seam allowances. This helps to make sure I keep on track. Blades can also be costly so I have blade sharpener . I also use brand called Somulex which are from Amazon and just as good as the olfa brand. My blade sharpener also came with a small device that has a magnet to pick up blades to make it safer. I use my old blades for cutting paper which makes cutting paper patterns much easier. Yes get a thicker quilting ruler. I hope these tips will be helpful and show how rotary cutter can reduce cutting time for fabric and paper.
love ur videos and info but this rotary cutting was scary to watch. lol first time rotary user should probably try a 28mm or 18mm size to cut smaller pieces and also there is a 14mm that has a grip and is more for precision cutting. my biggest prob w rotary cutters is they “run away” and i slice patterns and cut into rulers lol. u seemed flustered with it. definitely get a quilting type ruler(s) and maybe try smaller size cutter. thank you for sharing your knowledge and insight and demo-ing new tools!
Thank you for the information. I got a cutter years ago and found it just wouldn’t work for me. At last I got scissors that bounce open after a cut since that is the hard part for me.
I cut out everything with pattern weights and a rotary cutter. The first time I saw someone doing it, I was shocked. It takes some time, but you can cut out tight areas. It's so much faster and no pins necessary. I do have a mat that is basically the size of two of those mats you have.
My mat is 36 x 60, as is the table I have which folds down to 36x12. I made my own weights with bbs and knit circles. I mostly sew garments. And have a manual sharpener for the blades. Even though I have been sewing for over 60 years, I love learning about new tools and tips. A recent great tool buy are the the clips that replace pins and I use them for many things other than sewing.
Buttonhole cutter can be used for a “too small” buttonhole. Just put a small block of wood halfway under the buttonhole with opposite end hanging off Cut and repeat for the other end.
I find using a rotary cutter with slippery fabrics works better than scissors because the fabric doesn’t lift like it does with scissors. I teach my students to use the rotary cutter in grade 10 and part of the safety is to never cut towards yourself, always use a safety (thicker) ruler when appropriate like cutting bags from measurements rather than a pattern, always stand when cutting, and always use your pointer finger on the top of the rotary cutter for leverage and to guide the blade/cutting line.
It may be somewhere else in comments, but I did not see, so I will add: a SMALLER rotary cutter is better (more agile) for small curves and work with smaller pieces. This video was fun- your facial reaction of startled delight to the buttonhole cutter was priceless and made me giggle. You’re a gem!
I don't know if you'll see this Evelyn because of how long ago this video was posted, but I just have to say that I am so grateful for you and your channel. I am 16 and have been sewing for somewhere over 2 years now (inconsistently though, so my skills aren't as developed as one might conclude). I am making more of a go of it this time, really being intentional with learning and teaching myself the right and most efficient way of doing things, as much as I can without overwhelming myself. Sewing can really test your patience and so learning how to do things the right way and putting effort into doing that, is important. I love sewing and I don't want frustration and perfectionism to get in the way of that passion any more. I hope that this comment has made sense to you, haha. I appreciate you very much Evelyn. You have such a likeable personality. You have a beautiful day! ❤
I would just like to say, regardless of whether or not Evelyn sees your comment, I did and found it quite inspirational. I have considered myself a beginner to medium level sewer for about 40 years now and have finally learnt to "slow the sew down". We don't have to race to get it done we have to enjoy it while we do it I hope you find the right method for you to continue on your sewing passion. Evelyn's videos are the ones I always go looking for if I am unsure on a method, she has a great way of explaining things.
@@michellem355 I am so glad to hear that you were inspired by my comment. That means a lot to me. I 100% agree that sewing isn't a race. It's so funny how we get that backward in our heads sometimes. I know (at least for me) that sewing relaxes me in a way, it is a mindful and almost soothing practice, or at least I feel that it should be. And you're right, Evelyn is one of my top favourite sewing youtubers. Her explanations are great. You have a beautiful rest of your day! Happy sewing!! 😊
Sometimes I enjoy just servicing my own machines, like oiling or greasing the older model. To keep them in tip top shape. Even though I didn’t sew that day, I feel that I am accomplishing goodness for them. Loved your comment and keep going ❤
Knitters use tiny coiless safety pins that sort of look like bulbs, so if you search bulb pins that may be what you want, or look in the needlework section of your craft store.
We use coil-less safety pins a lot in knitting, so you might check under knitting supplies. I also like using them to pin pieces together if storing them for any length of time.
I have to go against the majority of comments that say to stand up while cutting because as a disabled person that makes me irk a little. You can do it while sitted, you just need the table at the right level to have the same angle/pressure as when standing. Just get it done quilts is a super nice youtuber that explains how to do it depending on whether you’re sat or standing and she also had a great number of tips for rottary cutting. Never ever cut towards you, don’t go back and forth that is what damages the mat don’t cut back always forward too. My additional tips as someone fairly new to this as well are: the videos where they go swooosh super fast and everything gets cut out properly rapidly are often fast forwarded. When I started I thought if I didn’t go fast the cutter wouldn’t work but that is actually what wasn’t working for me. I was missing small sections of the line I was cutting. So I tried going verrrry slowly keeping the same pressure/level with my cutting hand and it actually was what made those tools work for me!! I was impressed of the difference it made to take my time to be precise. It’s tempting to go super fast like in the videos but when you’re cutting pattern pieces it’s totally ok and advisable to take all the time u need. Also I was struggling badly with my olfa 45mm bc it works for straight lines sure but all the fiddly curvy pieces, 28mm for SURE. They’re so lightweighted to in comparison to the 45mm I find them super easy to handle.
@@user-mv9tt4st9k Me too! And I’m not even into quilting I just find her tips about ergonomic sewing spaces and how to cut super useful and she has a comforting vibe to her I find!!
One item that I underestimated but made my life so much easier when sewing is the magnetic pin board. It made everything so easy, instead of pulling and pushing the pins on the pincushion, you just easily pick them up and throw them back on it. Doesn’t seem like much but it definitely makes a difference ! And another one is the hem ruler that you can iron on. I didn’t iron over it yet but just using it to make an uniform hem, such a precious tool! I wouldn’t go back to eyeball my hems :))
@@mq5276 that’s interesting, I am using the oval purple one from prym and I haven’t had this problem. The pins sit beautifully on that one. Maybe it has to do with how the magnets are placed inside; try this one if you can find it. I totally recommend it!
In addition to the other comments about standing instead of sitting; a proper ruler will definitely help with the rotary cutter. It is easy to cut/shave off part of a ruler if it isn’t a quilting one. Speaking from experience, FYI. Also, loosening/tightening the blade can make a difference, but treat the blade like your sewing needles. Replace often as once it goes dull you’ll have all sorts of issues.
Thankyou for the tips Bree! I will give it a really good try out again, not filming at the same time will make it easier to stand and do it correctly I think! 😀😄
Also, when cutting, start at the end of the fabric and cut in one smooth motion; don't nibble at it. 🙂 I would never use a rotary cutter to cut out a pattern, but as you found out, they are the best for cutting long straight pieces. (As a quilter, rotary cutters have saved me countless hours.) LOVE your videos!
You can absolutely use a rotary cutter to cut out pattern. It's actually easier to go around those curves with a rotary cutter than it is scissors. Have you ever tried it? The only thing rotary cutters don't do well are tiny little nicks like you would see in a complicated collar. Then tiny little scissors work best.
I cut out EVERYTHING with a RC. All patterns are pressed, then cut out with a RC. THEN, they are put on the fabric and the fabric is cut out with the RC. Cutti;ng out the pattern and the fabric is prone to inaccuracy and butchers/ruins tissue patterns and others.
@@daxxydog5777 I also love my RC for cutting things like chiffon & similar fabrics that want to run away from the shears if you look at them cross-ways. :D Last summer, I made a costume for my niece that included several layers of sheers over a muslin base (my niece is a wee bit obsessed with Rose from Titanic & wanted the "swim" dress). The RC was an absolute dream for those loooooooooong pieces that wouldn't have been anywhere near straight (or the same size) had I tried my shears on them.
Just watched the end of the video -- rotary cutter. Additional thoughts: 1. Use only with an acrylic ruler. 2. Cut while standing. As my first quilting teacher told us regarding pressure: "Cut as if you are cutting through the table". 3. Don't saw back and forth; if you resort to that it means you either have a dull blade or insufficient pressure. 4. Keep out of sight of children. They can be deadly in the hands of a curious child. 5. I teach a "Better Bindings" quilting class. Students are charged $1 donation to Quilts for Kids if they set a blade down with the blade exposed. (Most styles of rotary cutters do have a self-retracting blade.)
I so agree with your safety comments and rules. My daughter who is now coming up 30yrs gave her self a nasty cut on her figure when she was 3yrs It’s put her of sewing well and truely which is sad While nasty and taking time to heal fortunately the cut wasn’t as bad as I know it could easily have been. These things can really make a mess of little (and big) hands if not used carefully
Stop before you seriously hurt yourself. You never cut towards yourself and you need a quilting style ruler. Stand at a cutting table protected by a cutting mat. Great for lining up your fabric. Quilting shows show how to safely use a rotary. cutter.
Your statement is incorrect regarding the acrylic rulers. I have the Martelli nonslip ruler that is so much better for using a rotary cutter . chances of you going up over the thickness of that ruler are definitely decreased. This ruler is not acrylic
@@dcwatashi yeah, I have a very large metal ruler as well, it’s about twice as thick as acrylic cutting rulers on the cutting side, never mind the body.
Evelyn, there are very large cutting mats, but I don’t have one. I have three mats, each three feet in length. I put them end to end on my cutting table, and they work great. They’re also easier to store and can be used individually. Once you get a glove, right type of ruler, and stand up to cut, I believe you’ll fall in love with the rotary cutter.
Bravo on trying so many quilting tools. I have to admit watching you use the rotary cutter gave me a lot of anxiety because they are so incredibly sharp and can slip and cut you quicker than you know. Honestly it is probably not a great tool for a dressmaker but it's fabulous and without a doubt necessary for me as a quilter you may also want to consider one of the smaller 18 mm blades for small cuts tight curves etc. With regards to the self-healing Mat there are instructions on how that happens I have a mat that I've had for near 10 years that is still in good shape. The Trick like most things in life is a warm Bath. 😉 Thank you for being such a trooper and giving all these tools a go. Your videos are very enjoyable.
I have to order some right away because threading my overlocker is an absolute nightmare for me. I sometimes avoid sewing with it because it has come unthreaded.
For threading the loopers I use long needles with which beads are threaded. You can just insert them from the front, send them to the back, tackle them there and hoppa the thread is in place, seems easier to me than sending a hook from behind. Greetings, Diana, from the Netherlands
Rotary cutters work best with a proper cutting ruler and if you stand up to use it. Sitting down doesn’t give you sufficient downward pressure. They are excellent for straight lines and angles. But I always use fabric scissors for cutting out dressmaking fabric.
I agree to stand up and use a thicker ruler, made me cringe .one slip of the cutter and damage hand.i use scissors only for dress making and cutter for quilting,hope this helps....
Hi Evelyn, Been watching your videos for a while but never left a comment before. I have a comment about the buttonhole cutter tool: If you have a buttonhole cutting tool that is longer than the buttonhole you can use a small wooden base (one usually comes with a kit) or a small piece of hard wood. You lay the fabric with the buttonhole on the edge with the buttonhole half on the wood and the other hanging over the edge. Then you cut one half that is on top, then reverse it and do the same on the other half. Also, I've seen a video where the lady first uses a seam sealant, such as Fray Check on the buttonhole and lets it dry before using the cutting tool and it looks like a great idea! NEXT, The Rotary Cutter: they come in different sizes. For small items, such as a small neck facing piece that you use in this video, would be best with the smaller rotary cutter. The one you are using is the largest or maybe the second largest. Also, I have the one you are using as well as the straighter one and find I have much more control with the straight one so you may want to give that one a try. The larger cutters are for bigger pattern pieces with long lines. For the ruler you need to be standing for leverage. Also start with your weight on the end close to you and gently lift your hand and move it up cooresponding near the area you are zipping by. RULERS: There are rulers that are made specifically for using a rotary cutter and they are thicker and move less. Some come with teeny tiny sandpaper type dots under the ruler that help hold it in place. HAPPY SEWING!
When using the rotary cutter you need to stand up and a proper rotary ruler also helps. I've use the Ulfa cutter, mats and Omnigrid rulers since they came out I love them for quilting and making bias cuts.
The looper threader is my secret weapon… I use it a billion times a session threading my bagmaking industrial sewing machine needle, left to right….so easy… it’s a necessity for me! I ❤ it so much I bought another 2 in case it broke, but it is wayyyyy sturdier than those flimsy silver ones for hand sewing needles.
As someone who quilts and makes clothes, I have learned that I prefer to use my rotary cutter for quilting and bias tapes. I prefer to use my scissors for everything else. People can take the rotary cutter out of my cold dead hands though. I love it so much.
There is a smaller rotary cutter for tight curves. Always cut forward, never towards you. If you wash your mat, the moisture will help 'heal' the cuts.
I *love* that buttonhole chisel. It's the only thing I use to open buttonholes with anymore. I really only use my rotary cutter when cutting knits. Because knits get distorted so easily. With wovens, I prefer my shears.
Here's a handy tip. I used a few dabs of rubber cement to mount my cutting mat to my work bench. It keeps it in place and from sliding around without permanently gluing it down.
I am a sucker for a good sewing gadget - big fan of clover. So many times I’ve tried one of their products and had the it’s never occurred to me that this fiddly task could be made easier moment! I like their iron-able ruler for hemming - makes it far less hazardous for my fingers whilst still being accurate.
Absolutely agree about the iron-able ruler It’s brilliant I’ve also managed to find clovers iron-able curve guide it is brilliant to particularly for external pockets Both have been Game changers
A nice thing about the rotary cutter (that I didn't see in the comments I think) is that you can put the blade on either side! Great for lefties like me! I've gotten used to using scissors with my right hand out of sheer (badump-chh) necessity, but it is really nice to be able to use my dominant hand without hunting down a special version of the tool.
I’m a lefty too Isn’t life fun when it comes to craft tools I have to admit though I’ve gone back to scissors preferring the precision I get with them - I’ve put that it down to being a lefty
Ah, the joys of being left-handed. I do like that the rotary cutter is an ambidextrous tool. In the USA, most lefties who learned to use scissors in the 1970s will tell tales of dreaded "green-handled scissors." We learned quickly that the righties blue-handled scissors had sharper blades so many of us grew up scissor cutting with our right hands. That might be your sheer necessity, ha ha.
I've changed mine to being left handed but I still don't get on with any of them. Scissors (true left handed ones of course) for me. When I first started sewing I had to use my mother's upholstery shears to cut out fabric. No left handed scissors in those days and my hands were so painful with the right handed handles and right handed blades though they were very sharp but so heavy!
Not to mention the pain, after cutting for awhile. Having the handle of the scissors dig into your thumb, because the handle is tailored to a right-handed person. No fun! You can't always find left-handed tools. When you can, they're often more expensive. Arrgghh!
I think you've nailed why, as a leftie, cutting fabric with scissors never worked for me. I saw a rotary cutter once and had to have it. I've never looked back. Especially with stretchy fabrics, I don't understand how you can cut accurately with scissors. Maybe there's a video somewhere 'How to cut accurately with scissors'.
I inherited a pair of small scissors designed to cut buttonholes. The blades are a special shape with a 'heel' which means you cut the slot exactly where you want it to be ie within your sewn buttonhole but not at the edge of the fabric. They also have a screw adjustment which enables you to adjust the length of the slot. Brilliant and very easy to use.
The special mats are high maintenance. For them to stay reasonably good, it is important to wash and clean them regularly. I have found the mats more suitable for crafts and quilters than for dressmakers. Good work for sharing and enjoy your videos often.
Hi Evelyn, I use the rotarycutter for many years, just losen the skrew a little when cutting through 1 or 2 layers, you will find it much easyer to cut. Love your video's!
The rotary cutter is great when you get used to it. I had a few nervous moments when your fingers were near the blade. When i first started with a rotary cutter i cut myself. The blade is viciously sharp and you certainly end up taking much better care of finger placement. On an unrelated topic, that dress behind you on the mannequin is beautiful.
To add to the comments about standing to use the rotary cutter: As an artist, this is a huge difference in drawing or tracing shapes. You're used to the method most of us in the European diaspora use to write, where you often stabilize your elbow and mostly move from your forearm or wrist. Standing, you move your whole arm. You can gain as much control moving your whole arm, but you can't get as much smooth gesture with a more immobilized arm, so it can be worth it to switch. But it does take time and practice. Moving your whole arm is good for complex shapes you want to draw or cut smoothly, but you'd have to practice. Only you can judge if practicing is worth your time. I can cut pants on my mat, no problem. You can get them pretty big, if you want. AFAIK, people use mats and rotary cutters because they're generally faster, in part because you can use weights instead of pins, and they generally make smooth, continuous cuts easier. I think they're more associated with fast clothing production than quilting or bias tape, but I could be entirely biased by what kind of content I watch. I do know that where scissors would need more, smaller cuts in tight curves, rotary cutters' performance is constant until their diameter is an issue.
Hey Evelyn! I highly recommend using Omnigrid rulers when working with a rotator cutter. They’re my go-to every time I need a straight cut. They’re designed for quilting and quilters in mind. I love how their rulers “grip” fabric giving you more sturdier and firm placement as you cut. You’re able to get those straight cuts without any slipping and needing to realign.
I no longer sew garments -- I am a quilter now. Flat-headed pins are known as "flower pins". I have numbered some 1-15 with a fine-point marker. I pin them into strips or sections of a quilt in order to keep them in order as I sew. Numbered flower pins are available online but self-labeled are better because they inevitably get bent or lost. (And no one needs 50 or 100.) Overall invaluable!
I would TOTALLY recommend using a thicker ruler or a metal ruler to use with your rotary blade since you’re starting out. I speak from experience and having injured multiple valuable plastic and flexible rulers I cherished. Even now, after many years of using it, I still prefer having a thicker ruler as a guarantee that I won’t injure the ruler or myself :)
The button cutter looks really good. I think I want one. I love my rotary cutter been using one for a long while. They don’t replace scissors but they do speed up straight cutting. My serger came with threading tools similar to the ones you showed and that was 1990! My poor old serger we’ve been through a lot together and it’s still going
It took me forever to try a rotary cutter, as i am a bit of a klutz and was afraid of cutting myself. I now use the rotary cutter for cutting out bias strips and for quilting. I found that a metal meter stick is the perfect straight edge for using the rotary. It has a bit of weight to it which helps in holding the fabric. Now that I have had some experience, I have purchased a smaller cutter that works well on curves. I do now use rotary cutters for patterns, but will never give up my shears. I am all for finding and using tools that make my task easier and the results more accurate. Happy Sewing!
You can lock your rotary cutter with the red button while cutting so you do not have to push the black handle continuously. Also you should have your forefinger on top of the rotary cutter so you can control your cuts and the pressure provided.
You cracked me up when you had to thread the overlocker! 🤣🤣 And I think I already have one of those overlocker threaders in my tool kit, which I have never used because I didn't know what it was for !
Coil less safety pins - knitting supply’s Button hole chisel- been thinking about one but have been nervous and not sure if I’d actually use one. Seeing it been used for the first time with such ease helps It seem a lot of people suggest using a piece of leather under them. I use leather from an old wallet under my hole punch/ notch maker Flat pins- wouldn’t be with out them now Overlocker threader- I’ve been using a very small crochet hook and have been looking for a proper set for an age. Just ordered the Husqvarna set so we’ll see. Rotary cutter- had one since 1995 but to be honest I’ve gone back to scissors for fabric’s As a lefty I prefer the precision I get with my lefty scissors. But I wouldn’t be with out my cutting mats. They sits on my desk all the time. Just looked at Gemmas shop and there is a darning mushroom- not cheap but yippee Great and informative video as alway Thank you
Oh how funny. Lefty here, as well. I use right-handed scissors (I was a casualty of the "green handled scissors" in elementary school--USA). I use the rotary cutter with my left hand. A piece of thick-grained leather under a chisel blade is a great idea--I have used a straight X-Acto blade for slicing buttonholes.
The items you are introducing have been around for years, The loop threader I first got with my first serger in 1983, came with machine. Unbelievable you have never used a rotary cutter--for a garment sewer understandable you have never used, for a quilter, I think I got in late 1980, can't do without. Safety pin a win. Yes you will love the button hole cutter, much cleaner, neater. The flat head pins are helpful. I am much older school than you but the rotary cutter is just very nice! Beware, the blade is extremely sharp and I don't think anyone I know has cut their hand/finger at least once, you absolutely MUST learn safety every time you use it, remember you can cut yourself just as easily on a dull blade!!!! The mats last for many years, but they will in time wear down. You are definitely keeping our other hand way too close to the cutter.
The buttonhole cutter I bought years ago has a small wooden block to use with the cutter. And as for rotary cutters, you need to check out the Martelli ergonomic rotary cutter. They are fabulous!
You have received so very good tips for the rotary cutter etc, I have been quilting for about 5 years now and have come to the realisation that it is not for me. I am in a wheelchair and can not stand and I find I can not cut accurately enough sitting. So I only do small pieces. The other thing I would say is that even to cut bias I would buy the proper ruler and a six and a half inch by twenty four inch would be best, the weight of it helps to be more accurate. Thank you for your vlogs, there is always something to learn.
I love my rotary cutter. I find I get a better cut because I don’t need it raise my fabric off my table and it is quicker. I do agree a thicker ruler would keep you more on track, like that tip.
I love my buttonhole cutter. It came with a tiny, thick cutting mat that keeps me from having to leave my sewing machine to go to my big mat. 💗 For small pattern pieces, I use a 28mm Kai rotary cutter which is so much easier to maneuver than the 45mm. Oh my goodness, I’m going to be on the lookout for the coiless safety pins and the overlocker needle threaders! They’re genius! 🤩 Thanks for trying out these tools for us.
I use my rotary cutter to cut out my paper patterns. It was a little bit of a learning curve to not wobble all over the page, but now -- I can zip around the lines in no time. I don't use my rotary cutter to cut much fabric (but I have two JUST for fabric), but for what it saves my hands on the wear and tear of opening and closing scissors -- I won't go back. Growing up, it was my job to cut out the paper patterns. Whenever my mother bought a new one (or several,) we would all sit down and cut them out, right away. Then, gradually, my mother quit, and my sister dropped out, and it was left up to me. In addition, I only cut the biggest size and use the excess ease to drape and fit the garment, so this might not work for folks who grade patterns to their size. Happy sewing with your new tools!
I tried the Olfa rotary cutter for the first time a week ago and I’m never going back. I’m not good enough to cut curves yet, but being able to cut a straight line through 10 layers of cotton is completely underrated 💚
I've used most of these. The button hole tool is one my mother used 60 years ago, except that you needed to use a hammer, like a chisel. If it hasnt been mentioned, the rotary works best perpendicular to your body, with the cutter straight out from your shoulder. In that way, you rarely have skips. I like it for knits because the fabric stays put instead of wiggling out of line.
I have used those fiddly loop threader since I got my first serger in the 80s! They are super wonderful. To keep up with the store them in a straw. It will protect the fiddly wires.
Great job on tools. The rotary cutter I have used since it came out, but now with mostly into garment sewing and not quilting, I find myself using scissors once again. I like the slower process of cutting each piece and enjoying every step. Before I was always in a hurry and loved whipping through the cutting process as fast as possible! Maybe that comes with age! Also another product I love is the Clover 9506 5 in 1 hem ruler. I alter bridal and prom dresses and this tool is my go to one for hemming and marking . Also, razor blades are my number one unpicking tool! I have a large Mason jar of grandads boxes of blades when he barbered in the 30’s. Still in perfect condition and in use 90 years later!
Nancy yes yes to single edge razor blade. Easy to hold and cut any size threads. Granted after awhile you can use dbl edge blades, but need to be very careful. Also the Single edge blades that are used in a utility knife are great gave a pointed end.
Coiless safety pins are a great tip. Found them on Etsy in various sizes. When using the rotary cutter, I usually use a thicker ruler and stand up while cutting. This way, it is easier to keep the ruler in place putting enough pressure on it, so it won't slip sideways.
The rotary cutter is great for cutting knits- using pattern weights. Cotton knits and such don't move and since the fit is in the stretch of the fabric, the pattern pieces tend to have straight lines. Those are made for a rotary cutter. Also, I have a tiny cutter that will do sharp curves and points. You are right, its also great for bias tape. I also have a very large rotary cutter that is great for thick fabrics like felt or polar fleece.
I've used a buttonhole cutter for years. Here in the US, they come with an eyelet cutter (circle) and either a block of wood or a very tiny mat. I've gotten some that aren't very sharp, so watch out. But yes, they are so easy to use and cut so nicely. I don't wiggle it, just position in and press down firmly. You can feel it slice thru the layers of fabric.
It is 50 years since I acquired my little chisel buttonhole cutter. It came with a second-hand Brother sewing machine, already well used and purchased in UK.
@@chriswatson1698 I agree. The original I got over 40 years ago is still sharp. It's the new ones that aren't. Silly me for ordering a duplicate when the original was good enough.
I always use a 28mm rotary cutter to get round the collars and armscyes. I bought my first self-healing mat from art supplies in the 1990s, because I hated the green they came in in those days. The beauty of the rotary cutter: no pinning the pattern to the fabric (unless it is really wobbly) just use weights. I cut on the floor, I’m with Rhonda478, sitting down may not word as well for rotary cutting. I had to contend with an irregular wood floor so the cutting mat was a life saver for me. When I was looking for an overlocker I soon saw I would need one of the expensive air-threading ones or I would not use the machine. They have been on the market for so long now, you can get a second hand one if price is the issue.
There are alot of great comments here but there are just a couple of things that you or others might find useful. Use the lined side of the mat for strait cutting. Lining the ruler up with the lines on the mat is what makes fast, strait, even cuts. Then use the blank side on the back for cutting out curved pattern pieces. I love your rewiews great job.
Hi. Thanks for your reviews. My button cutter came with a small mat (Amazon). Please be careful when using the rotary cutter. I never go backwards...lift the cutter and start over but never go backwards. Keep your fingers out of the way. I don't use it for cutting garment pattern pieces. And yes, you will need the correct ruler as the cutter can jump those thin rulers and cause injury. Those threaders for the serger look like they would be good for the sewing studio. Thanks!
Rotary Cutter tips: ALWAYS stand, view from above is best & a little body weight helps keep ruler & cutter straight. Start your rolling cut at edge of fabric, not in center. Cut rolling in 1 direction. Back & forth motion will encourage fabric shifting. I use a small (18mm) Rotary when cutting small pieces or around especially tight curves. I also have a 'permanent ' cutting mat on my table now. I too am a garment maker. My mat is 35 inches x 55 inches. Plenty big enough for plus size pattern pieces. And that permanent placement has saved my table quite a bit over the years from other, not sharp, projects! In the US you can get them for under $100. They aren't self healing but I recycle mine every 3-4 years & replace it. Also look for videos on caring for/cleaning your self healing mat. You'll find ways to maintain the mat for its best life!
I have recently started using a rotary cutter and I find you have to stand to use it and I have practiced and can cut very quickly and accurately. I have a second one for cutting out paper patterns. I use the old blades in that one. I love it.
I highly recommend using the rotary cutter to cut your pattern and fabric. I cut out all my patterns with a rotary cutter and pattern weights on two cutting mats placed end to end on my kitchen countertop. You need to stand up and go slowly and carefully. I use a small pair of scissors to mark notches and cut around small curves. It works very well on all types of fabrics. Cuts are clean and straight. You will need to practice, but it will be a real game changer.
I use a thicker ruler and weigths when cutting with my rotatori wheels. I place the weigths over the ruler to hold the ruler and prevent shifting of my ruler or fabric. Try it Also go straigth forward with the rottatory cutter to prevent accidents. Some people like to use gloves to protect their hands but it make it hard to manage. Thanks Evelyn for your great videos. I enjoy them a lot. I made some of your pin cushin holders and i love them. GBY TX/ PR
When using the rotary cutter, stand up to cut. Also start at the end don't push the cutter backwards and forwards. Just put pressure on the rotary cutter by standing and cut forward with a quilting ruler or free hand. Make sure you keep your fingers out of the way as the blade is surgical steel. Also as you are using a fisco mat with an olfa cutter, you will find that your blade will get blunt quicker. Really enjoy your videos .... Happy sewing 🧵🪡
Rotary cutting, requires you to be standing for ergonomics and effective cutting. Small or tight pattern pieces require a smaller blade to be effective. You definitely need a quilting ruler when using a rotary cutter. That said I still love my Kai shears. Threading over lockers, I solved this by buying a self threading overlocker - it’s expensive but I love it and more to the point, actually use it! I’ve used flat headed pins for a while now. A word of caution, they are not suitable for fine fabrics- I tend to use pattern weights and on occasion I have used magic tape, the type does not damage paper patterns or fabric.
Hi Evelyn I always enjoy your videos and learn from them. I know you’ve always said you’re sticking to your scissors but it’s always good to try new things. Looks like you have the midsize rotary cutter so there is a smaller one that works for small curves and such and the cutting mats you can actually have custom made. I’ve seen them be as large as the cutting table. So they can be used in dressmaking and work well for both quilters and dressmakers. I myself use scissors but when I first started sewing back in the eighties I don’t even know if rotary cutters had been introduced to quilters or seamstresses lol. I have purchased a rotary cutter and mat so now I might unbox them and try. Oh last thing in watching older videos about rotary cutters they actually would encourage the use of a protective glove and after hearing the nightmare stories I found them on Amazon and fully intend to wear it when I use the rotary cutter 😊
I have all sizes and all different makes and have tried and tried but can't get a nice straight line. Curves end up weird shapes and I have given up! Even with the frame with slots to cut along doesn't work for me. Blade, yes, a new sharp one, jumping all over the place! Scissors all the way from now!
In clothes making rotary cutters are good for cutting bias tape, straps, belting, shortening the bottoms of garments, generally longer straight cuts. I am amazed some people use them to cut all pattern pieces. I feel it’s risky getting around curves and such. You definitely need a thick, firm ruler. There are handles you can get that suction on to a good sized ruler for safety, then you have a nifty tool ready to go and safer!
Hi Evelyn, I just happened onto your page. I've never seen the coil less safety pins, definitely going to have to find some! I used the 28mm rotary cutter for cutting masks and if making the same size I could cut 4 layers at a time. Pay attention to @teresadejong3011 comments, she has mentioned everything that I was going to for safety. As she said: never, NEVER cut towards you. Cut away from you. Don't cut cross-handed. Turn your work , or the mat so that you cut in the right direction. A rotary cutter is an excellent tool for garments besides quilting but you really need to follow the safety rules for them, they are VERY sharpp and can do a lot of damage. ALWAYS put the safety (the red button to lock) on as soon as you finish. If you drop it without the lock on, it could be disasterous. Someone suggested to lock it so you didn't have to hold the black handle while cutting. It's there for a reason, please do not lock it open!
Plus the rotary cutters biggest advantage is the number of layers you can cut at one time. I imagine you found that the unlock button is also the lock button once you have the blade exposed. My only negative experience is when I bumped my finger with the blade; holy cow they are sharp!
I have a fiskars cutting mat, and it isn't as self-healing as others... the rotary cutter, though, you need to stand up, apply some firm pressure, and kind of press the blade against the ruler. Also, you can fold fabrics to fit on the mat. But yes, the rotary cutter's main purpose is to cut straight lines, and for that it is invaluable! I make a lot of bags, so I love my rotary cutter and cutting mat!
I use a carpenter square, metal and very stable. You can also lock the blade in place. Practice is good (I use your 3 Ps advice). Took a bit to get used to, but now I love using it
Love that you are open to trying new things! I love my rotary cutter because of what you mentioned about hand issues. My hands fatigue really quickly with scissors, so the rotary cutter is a wonderful thing. I have a set of three large mats that can be used individually or all clamped together to cut out large garment pieces. I've had them for at least 10 years and they're still going strong. Buttonhole chisels are wonderful if you are sewing a ton of buttonholes. If you don't then they're probably unnecessary. I've always just punched straight down rather than rock side to side. I personally hate those flat pins because the heads melt if an iron gets anywhere near them. They also are super thin and bend out of shape quickly. I use big washers from the hardware store as pattern weights. Once the piece is cut out and marked I use a couple of pins to hold the pattern and fabric together if I'm not going to be able to sew right away.
I had wondered about flat straight pins and I think I will switch to those based on your demonstration. I also liked the straight threader and the button hole cutter. I have used the rotary cutter for straight edges because apart from having to stand over it to cut, you should also only cut away from you. This makes it hard to use properly for dressmaking buy it really is a time saver for making bias binding and quilting blocks. Love the tutorial. Thank you!
I got a tiny self healing mat with my button hole cutter, about 5 cm square and it is really helpful. I've seen wood blocks also. I only use my rotary cutter for straight cuts and not cutting out pattern pieces. Thanks for the review.
One tip I would recommend on the rotary cutter….Always push in the safety button to keep the blade disengaged when it is not in your hand. You could easily knock off the cutter and hit your leg or even foot. The blade is so sharp it will go easily through skin and anything else in its way. I love my rotary cutter, just have to learn to respect it to stay safe. Thanks for the great videos. I love watching 😍
Coil-less safety pins are the only thing I never heard of (okay, the specific threaders for overlockers too, but I don't use overlockers, so that never came up in my sewing live). Usually I just add a small bead to the safety pin before piercing the fabric, that blocks the beginning of the coil quite sufficiently I find.
I never use my rotary cutter for patterns, I use it for all my quilting. Please be careful when you use it, I would also recommend a safety glove and always cut away from yourself. I have switched to the flat clover pins, started using them when I started quilting, they are great but be careful if you have something pinned and are pressing as the tops will melt. I like the springless safety pins, I will look for them and the looper threader looks good. Thanks for sharing.
I use titanium blades for my RC and rarely have to change them. I cut daily, a lot. Also, invest in the buttonhole cutter that comes in a pak along with the eyelet cutter and the tiny maple cutting board to cut your holes. Trust me, it will ruin your self sealing mat. You need to use your BH cutter on a piece of hardwood. The eyelet cutter is another fabulous tool you will use a lot for other purposes as well.
Rotary cutters are amazing to use. You need to stand when using them. Also if you want to use them for smaller areas, there are smaller sized ones. I even use them to cut out doll clothes. Do need to be careful they are super sharp. Work with it for a while and you'll fall in love with them. The looper threaders I have been using for years. A must have. With the exception of the buttonhole cutter and the safety pins all the other items are in my stash.
Flat headed pins sounds like a dream. I started sewing with just a few of them small metal pins with tiny heads that seem to come free with little sewing kits. Now I have four different styles of pins so this will make it five, that said they all have a purpose and I do use them differently depending on what I am making. Coil-less safety pins! hmm will have to consider them, maybe.
Def fun trying new things. I've done a lot of bags w/heavy outdoor fabric etc. Straight lines etc - Love the rotary cutter for that. Getting into clothing and I look forward to finally using my cutting shears for that. I think the rotary cutter would be more difficult with the curves etc.
Safety tips for using the rotary cutter. 1- always use a sharp blade. When the blade gets dull, or you've put a nick in it, you'll use more pressure to make it cut - then slip ups can be disasterous. Remember the blade is as sharp as a scalpel, and a new blade is better than having surgery to repair fingers. 2- Use rulers meant for rotary cutting. Slim rulers allow the blade to ride up over it putting your fingers in jeopardy, 3- use the right rotary cutter for the job. There is a 28mm for tiny curves, the 45 mm is for general use, 65mm is for thicker fabrics or thick layers. 4- allow for the curve of the blade when cutting into corners - stop just shy of the corner so it doesn't over shoot the corner. You'll have to do the finishing with a pair of scissors, or use a ruler meant for corners that will allow you to overshoot the edge by the exact amount you need to cut the corner. and 5- never, NEVER cut towards you. Cut away from you. Don't cut cross-handed. Turn your work , or the mat so that you cut in the right direction.
I break several of those rules. But that's unique to me and my arthritic hands. One rule that you forgot is always always always retract the blade when you are finished cutting. If you're going to put down that blade for even a second, retract it. If you don't, you're going to end up bleeding all over your fabric. I've had to learn that rule several times.
@@broganmckoko Or think you’ve picked up the tracing paper wheel when you haven’t. Uhoh. I have picked up the rotary cutter by mistake numerous times, but always caught myself before ruining my fabric.
Thank you for these tips! I bought one because it was there. I'm a very new sewist and didn't know there were actual steps to using the rotary cutter. It was frustrating, so I felt like I didn't know anything. I'll try your tips!
If you get a 6 1/2" by 24" quilting ruler it will have a 45 degree line marked on it that will help to line up bias strips. There are rotary cutters available with handles at right angles to the blade for both left and right handed people if you have hand issues, they make it easier to control. Agree with the rest of the comments about sizes of blades and safety. It is possible to get large mats that will accommodate most pattern pieces. I use a large magnetic whiteboard under my cutting mat and skittle shaped magnets to hold the fabric and paper patterns in place, much quicker and flatter than using pins.
Great advice thank you 🌹
You are ising the rottary cutter improperly. You need to be standing. Your weight should be BEHIND the cutter.
I was thinking the same thing. Birds Eye view is the way to cut it easily.
Thankyou, I will try this next time for sure, which will be easier not trying to film at the same time! 😄
I have hard time with scissors due to a major injury several years ago. I love my rotary cutter. For Christmas one year I got this device that attaches to it . The device moves back & forth and allows me to do seam allowances . I always make sure I can fit all my pattern pieces on my fabric then I will put what I can on top cut those out then bring up my remaining fabric and cut those out. I will also make sure my remaining fabric is on straight of grain and of course is straightened out & wrinkle free. I will admit going around tight curves can be difficult, but what I do is to just marked out a few spots with friction pins or chalk with my seam allowances. This helps to make sure I keep on track. Blades can also be costly so I have blade sharpener . I also use brand called Somulex which are from Amazon and just as good as the olfa brand. My blade sharpener also came with a small device that has a magnet to pick up blades to make it safer. I use my old blades for cutting paper which makes cutting paper patterns much easier. Yes get a thicker quilting ruler. I hope these tips will be helpful and show how rotary cutter can reduce cutting time for fabric and paper.
love ur videos and info but this rotary cutting was scary to watch. lol first time rotary user should probably try a 28mm or 18mm size to cut smaller pieces and also there is a 14mm that has a grip and is more for precision cutting. my biggest prob w rotary cutters is they “run away” and i slice patterns and cut into rulers lol. u seemed flustered with it. definitely get a quilting type ruler(s) and maybe try smaller size cutter. thank you for sharing your knowledge and insight and demo-ing new tools!
Thank you for the information. I got a cutter years ago and found it just wouldn’t work for me. At last I got scissors that bounce open after a cut since that is the hard part for me.
I cut out everything with pattern weights and a rotary cutter. The first time I saw someone doing it, I was shocked. It takes some time, but you can cut out tight areas. It's so much faster and no pins necessary. I do have a mat that is basically the size of two of those mats you have.
Use a smaller rotary cutter (28mm) for tight areas. It’s much more nimble than a 45 or 60 mm cutter.
My mat is 36 x 60, as is the table I have which folds down to 36x12. I made my own weights with bbs and knit circles. I mostly sew garments. And have a manual sharpener for the blades. Even though I have been sewing for over 60 years, I love learning about new tools and tips. A recent great tool buy are the the clips that replace pins and I use them for many things other than sewing.
Buttonhole cutter can be used for a “too small” buttonhole. Just put a small block of wood halfway under the buttonhole with opposite end hanging off Cut and repeat for the other end.
😀
I find using a rotary cutter with slippery fabrics works better than scissors because the fabric doesn’t lift like it does with scissors. I teach my students to use the rotary cutter in grade 10 and part of the safety is to never cut towards yourself, always use a safety (thicker) ruler when appropriate like cutting bags from measurements rather than a pattern, always stand when cutting, and always use your pointer finger on the top of the rotary cutter for leverage and to guide the blade/cutting line.
It may be somewhere else in comments, but I did not see, so I will add: a SMALLER rotary cutter is better (more agile) for small curves and work with smaller pieces. This video was fun- your facial reaction of startled delight to the buttonhole cutter was priceless and made me giggle. You’re a gem!
I don't know if you'll see this Evelyn because of how long ago this video was posted, but I just have to say that I am so grateful for you and your channel. I am 16 and have been sewing for somewhere over 2 years now (inconsistently though, so my skills aren't as developed as one might conclude). I am making more of a go of it this time, really being intentional with learning and teaching myself the right and most efficient way of doing things, as much as I can without overwhelming myself. Sewing can really test your patience and so learning how to do things the right way and putting effort into doing that, is important. I love sewing and I don't want frustration and perfectionism to get in the way of that passion any more. I hope that this comment has made sense to you, haha. I appreciate you very much Evelyn. You have such a likeable personality. You have a beautiful day! ❤
I would just like to say, regardless of whether or not Evelyn sees your comment, I did and found it quite inspirational. I have considered myself a beginner to medium level sewer for about 40 years now and have finally learnt to "slow the sew down". We don't have to race to get it done we have to enjoy it while we do it I hope you find the right method for you to continue on your sewing passion. Evelyn's videos are the ones I always go looking for if I am unsure on a method, she has a great way of explaining things.
@@michellem355 I am so glad to hear that you were inspired by my comment. That means a lot to me.
I 100% agree that sewing isn't a race. It's so funny how we get that backward in our heads sometimes. I know (at least for me) that sewing relaxes me in a way, it is a mindful and almost soothing practice, or at least I feel that it should be.
And you're right, Evelyn is one of my top favourite sewing youtubers. Her explanations are great.
You have a beautiful rest of your day! Happy sewing!! 😊
Sometimes I enjoy just servicing my own machines, like oiling or greasing the older model. To keep them in tip top shape. Even though I didn’t sew that day, I feel that I am accomplishing goodness for them. Loved your comment and keep going ❤
Knitters use tiny coiless safety pins that sort of look like bulbs, so if you search bulb pins that may be what you want, or look in the needlework section of your craft store.
We use coil-less safety pins a lot in knitting, so you might check under knitting supplies. I also like using them to pin pieces together if storing them for any length of time.
Oh thanks for the tip! I wouldn't have thought to look at knitting supplies!
Yes, I have small coil less pins for my knitting too.
I have to go against the majority of comments that say to stand up while cutting because as a disabled person that makes me irk a little. You can do it while sitted, you just need the table at the right level to have the same angle/pressure as when standing. Just get it done quilts is a super nice youtuber that explains how to do it depending on whether you’re sat or standing and she also had a great number of tips for rottary cutting. Never ever cut towards you, don’t go back and forth that is what damages the mat don’t cut back always forward too. My additional tips as someone fairly new to this as well are: the videos where they go swooosh super fast and everything gets cut out properly rapidly are often fast forwarded. When I started I thought if I didn’t go fast the cutter wouldn’t work but that is actually what wasn’t working for me. I was missing small sections of the line I was cutting. So I tried going verrrry slowly keeping the same pressure/level with my cutting hand and it actually was what made those tools work for me!! I was impressed of the difference it made to take my time to be precise. It’s tempting to go super fast like in the videos but when you’re cutting pattern pieces it’s totally ok and advisable to take all the time u need. Also I was struggling badly with my olfa 45mm bc it works for straight lines sure but all the fiddly curvy pieces, 28mm for SURE. They’re so lightweighted to in comparison to the 45mm I find them super easy to handle.
Just Get It Done Quilts... Love her. 🙂
@@user-mv9tt4st9k Me too! And I’m not even into quilting I just find her tips about ergonomic sewing spaces and how to cut super useful and she has a comforting vibe to her I find!!
One item that I underestimated but made my life so much easier when sewing is the magnetic pin board. It made everything so easy, instead of pulling and pushing the pins on the pincushion, you just easily pick them up and throw them back on it. Doesn’t seem like much but it definitely makes a difference ! And another one is the hem ruler that you can iron on. I didn’t iron over it yet but just using it to make an uniform hem, such a precious tool! I wouldn’t go back to eyeball my hems :))
A magnetic pin holder is also very useful when you drop pins all over the floor too.
I keep a round magnet next to my sewing machine for my pins. It is convenient and a time saver.
I haven't mastered the magnetic pin holder yet. I find the pins all bunch together and I have trouble picking up a single pin.
@@mq5276 that’s interesting, I am using the oval purple one from prym and I haven’t had this problem. The pins sit beautifully on that one. Maybe it has to do with how the magnets are placed inside; try this one if you can find it. I totally recommend it!
In addition to the other comments about standing instead of sitting; a proper ruler will definitely help with the rotary cutter. It is easy to cut/shave off part of a ruler if it isn’t a quilting one. Speaking from experience, FYI. Also, loosening/tightening the blade can make a difference, but treat the blade like your sewing needles. Replace often as once it goes dull you’ll have all sorts of issues.
Thankyou for the tips Bree! I will give it a really good try out again, not filming at the same time will make it easier to stand and do it correctly I think! 😀😄
I have a rotary blade sharpener, it’s more than paid for itself.
Also, when cutting, start at the end of the fabric and cut in one smooth motion; don't nibble at it. 🙂
I would never use a rotary cutter to cut out a pattern, but as you found out, they are the best for cutting long straight pieces. (As a quilter, rotary cutters have saved me countless hours.)
LOVE your videos!
You can absolutely use a rotary cutter to cut out pattern. It's actually easier to go around those curves with a rotary cutter than it is scissors. Have you ever tried it? The only thing rotary cutters don't do well are tiny little nicks like you would see in a complicated collar. Then tiny little scissors work best.
I love a rotary cutter for cutting out knit fabric. Keeps it much neater. I have two mats taped together on a folding table just for pattern cutting.
I cut out EVERYTHING with a RC. All patterns are pressed, then cut out with a RC. THEN, they are put on the fabric and the fabric is cut out with the RC. Cutti;ng out the pattern and the fabric is prone to inaccuracy and butchers/ruins tissue patterns and others.
@@daxxydog5777 I also love my RC for cutting things like chiffon & similar fabrics that want to run away from the shears if you look at them cross-ways. :D Last summer, I made a costume for my niece that included several layers of sheers over a muslin base (my niece is a wee bit obsessed with Rose from Titanic & wanted the "swim" dress). The RC was an absolute dream for those loooooooooong pieces that wouldn't have been anywhere near straight (or the same size) had I tried my shears on them.
I use my rotary cutters (of different sizes) to cut out patterns often. It's easier than using scissors as the fabric doesn't lift up. Give it a try.
Just watched the end of the video -- rotary cutter. Additional thoughts:
1. Use only with an acrylic ruler.
2. Cut while standing. As my first quilting teacher told us regarding pressure: "Cut as if you are cutting through the table".
3. Don't saw back and forth; if you resort to that it means you either have a dull blade or insufficient pressure.
4. Keep out of sight of children. They can be deadly in the hands of a curious child.
5. I teach a "Better Bindings" quilting class. Students are charged $1 donation to Quilts for Kids if they set a blade down with the blade exposed. (Most styles of rotary cutters do have a self-retracting blade.)
I so agree with your safety comments and rules. My daughter who is now coming up 30yrs gave her self a nasty cut on her figure when she was 3yrs It’s put her of sewing well and truely which is sad
While nasty and taking time to heal fortunately the cut wasn’t as bad as I know it could easily have been.
These things can really make a mess of little (and big) hands if not used carefully
Yes your tips are good.Always stand stand when you cut and apply pressure and never cut back and forth. Always in
Stop before you seriously hurt yourself. You never cut towards yourself and you need a quilting style ruler. Stand at a cutting table protected by a cutting mat. Great for lining up your fabric. Quilting shows show how to safely use a rotary. cutter.
Your statement is incorrect regarding the acrylic rulers. I have the Martelli nonslip ruler that is so much better for using a rotary cutter .
chances of you going up over the thickness of that ruler are definitely decreased. This ruler is not acrylic
@@dcwatashi yeah, I have a very large metal ruler as well, it’s about twice as thick as acrylic cutting rulers on the cutting side, never mind the body.
Evelyn, there are very large cutting mats, but I don’t have one. I have three mats, each three feet in length. I put them end to end on my cutting table, and they work great. They’re also easier to store and can be used individually. Once you get a glove, right type of ruler, and stand up to cut, I believe you’ll fall in love with the rotary cutter.
Bravo on trying so many quilting tools. I have to admit watching you use the rotary cutter gave me a lot of anxiety because they are so incredibly sharp and can slip and cut you quicker than you know. Honestly it is probably not a great tool for a dressmaker but it's fabulous and without a doubt necessary for me as a quilter you may also want to consider one of the smaller 18 mm blades for small cuts tight curves etc. With regards to the self-healing Mat there are instructions on how that happens I have a mat that I've had for near 10 years that is still in good shape. The Trick like most things in life is a warm Bath. 😉 Thank you for being such a trooper and giving all these tools a go. Your videos are very enjoyable.
The looper threaders are literally my favourite tool and the only reason I don’t cry every time I have to rethread my serger 😂
😂 I knew they would someone's life saver!
I have to order some right away because threading my overlocker is an absolute nightmare for me. I sometimes avoid sewing with it because it has come unthreaded.
For threading the loopers I use long needles with which beads are threaded. You can just insert them from the front, send them to the back, tackle them there and hoppa the thread is in place, seems easier to me than sending a hook from behind. Greetings, Diana, from the Netherlands
You can also get the flat head pins that survive ironing, which is nice for fiddly hems and angles.
You can also get pinking blades for your rotary cutter. Game changer and time saver.
Rotary cutters work best with a proper cutting ruler and if you stand up to use it. Sitting down doesn’t give you sufficient downward pressure. They are excellent for straight lines and angles. But I always use fabric scissors for cutting out dressmaking fabric.
she made me cringe--sitting down to do this is dangerous.
It is a good idea to wear safety gloves with rotary cutters.
I agree to stand up and use a thicker ruler, made me cringe .one slip of the cutter and damage hand.i use scissors only for dress making and cutter for quilting,hope this helps....
Thankyou Jan, I will be trying this next time! 😀
@@julesravvi Also store it flat. Once they get warped or bent they are never the same again.
Hi Evelyn, Been watching your videos for a while but never left a comment before. I have a comment about the buttonhole cutter tool: If you have a buttonhole cutting tool that is longer than the buttonhole you can use a small wooden base (one usually comes with a kit) or a small piece of hard wood. You lay the fabric with the buttonhole on the edge with the buttonhole half on the wood and the other hanging over the edge. Then you cut one half that is on top, then reverse it and do the same on the other half. Also, I've seen a video where the lady first uses a seam sealant, such as Fray Check on the buttonhole and lets it dry before using the cutting tool and it looks like a great idea! NEXT, The Rotary Cutter: they come in different sizes. For small items, such as a small neck facing piece that you use in this video, would be best with the smaller rotary cutter. The one you are using is the largest or maybe the second largest. Also, I have the one you are using as well as the straighter one and find I have much more control with the straight one so you may want to give that one a try. The larger cutters are for bigger pattern pieces with long lines. For the ruler you need to be standing for leverage. Also start with your weight on the end close to you and gently lift your hand and move it up cooresponding near the area you are zipping by. RULERS: There are rulers that are made specifically for using a rotary cutter and they are thicker and move less. Some come with teeny tiny sandpaper type dots under the ruler that help hold it in place. HAPPY SEWING!
When using the rotary cutter you need to stand up and a proper rotary ruler also helps. I've use the Ulfa cutter, mats and Omnigrid rulers since they came out I love them for quilting and making bias cuts.
Flat head pins! Such a good invention! Yay!
The looper threader is my secret weapon… I use it a billion times a session threading my bagmaking industrial sewing machine needle, left to right….so easy… it’s a necessity for me! I ❤ it so much I bought another 2 in case it broke, but it is wayyyyy sturdier than those flimsy silver ones for hand sewing needles.
As someone who quilts and makes clothes, I have learned that I prefer to use my rotary cutter for quilting and bias tapes. I prefer to use my scissors for everything else. People can take the rotary cutter out of my cold dead hands though. I love it so much.
There is a smaller rotary cutter for tight curves. Always cut forward, never towards you. If you wash your mat, the moisture will help 'heal' the cuts.
I use a rotary cutter on synthetic fabric to save my Kai scissors from getting dull. The blade on the rotary cutter is easily changed.
I *love* that buttonhole chisel. It's the only thing I use to open buttonholes with anymore. I really only use my rotary cutter when cutting knits. Because knits get distorted so easily. With wovens, I prefer my shears.
I adore my buttonhole chisel!!
The chisel is the only thing in using now too! 😄
Here's a handy tip. I used a few dabs of rubber cement to mount my cutting mat to my work bench. It keeps it in place and from sliding around without permanently gluing it down.
That's a great tip!
What kind of rubber cement is that? The kind you use for masking paper for watercolour painting?
@@gouachegirl6115 Probably just the regular kind you buy at office supply stores.
@@BabalonNuit Thanks for your answer!
I am a sucker for a good sewing gadget - big fan of clover. So many times I’ve tried one of their products and had the it’s never occurred to me that this fiddly task could be made easier moment! I like their iron-able ruler for hemming - makes it far less hazardous for my fingers whilst still being accurate.
Absolutely agree about the iron-able ruler It’s brilliant
I’ve also managed to find clovers iron-able curve guide it is brilliant to particularly for external pockets
Both have been Game changers
I have had quilters tell me "do not cheap out on notions." I always buy Clover, their blades (especially seam rippers) are nice and sharp.
A nice thing about the rotary cutter (that I didn't see in the comments I think) is that you can put the blade on either side! Great for lefties like me! I've gotten used to using scissors with my right hand out of sheer (badump-chh) necessity, but it is really nice to be able to use my dominant hand without hunting down a special version of the tool.
I’m a lefty too
Isn’t life fun when it comes to craft tools
I have to admit though I’ve gone back to scissors preferring the precision I get with them - I’ve put that it down to being a lefty
Ah, the joys of being left-handed. I do like that the rotary cutter is an ambidextrous tool. In the USA, most lefties who learned to use scissors in the 1970s will tell tales of dreaded "green-handled scissors." We learned quickly that the righties blue-handled scissors had sharper blades so many of us grew up scissor cutting with our right hands. That might be your sheer necessity, ha ha.
I've changed mine to being left handed but I still don't get on with any of them. Scissors (true left handed ones of course) for me. When I first started sewing I had to use my mother's upholstery shears to cut out fabric. No left handed scissors in those days and my hands were so painful with the right handed handles and right handed blades though they were very sharp but so heavy!
Not to mention the pain, after cutting for awhile. Having the handle of the scissors dig into your thumb, because the handle is tailored to a right-handed person. No fun! You can't always find left-handed tools. When you can, they're often more expensive. Arrgghh!
I think you've nailed why, as a leftie, cutting fabric with scissors never worked for me. I saw a rotary cutter once and had to have it. I've never looked back. Especially with stretchy fabrics, I don't understand how you can cut accurately with scissors. Maybe there's a video somewhere 'How to cut accurately with scissors'.
I inherited a pair of small scissors designed to cut buttonholes. The blades are a special shape with a 'heel' which means you cut the slot exactly where you want it to be ie within your sewn buttonhole but not at the edge of the fabric. They also have a screw adjustment which enables you to adjust the length of the slot. Brilliant and very easy to use.
The special mats are high maintenance. For them to stay reasonably good, it is important to wash and clean them regularly. I have found the mats more suitable for crafts and quilters than for dressmakers. Good work for sharing and enjoy your videos often.
Hi Evelyn, I use the rotarycutter for many years, just losen the skrew a little when cutting through 1 or 2 layers, you will find it much easyer to cut. Love your video's!
Oh great advice thankyou!
That’s the rotary cutter I use. Best one for sure, no need to remember to close the blade, you let go of it, it closes.😊😊
some of these tools are things I asosciate with quilting, such as flat headed pins, rotary cutters, and coilless safety pins
The rotary cutter is great when you get used to it. I had a few nervous moments when your fingers were near the blade. When i first started with a rotary cutter i cut myself. The blade is viciously sharp and you certainly end up taking much better care of finger placement.
On an unrelated topic, that dress behind you on the mannequin is beautiful.
I love using a rotary cutter. It took me a little while to get used to using it at age 72, but it makes cutting fast and easy.
Much easier when you get older and have hand/thumb problems.
To add to the comments about standing to use the rotary cutter: As an artist, this is a huge difference in drawing or tracing shapes. You're used to the method most of us in the European diaspora use to write, where you often stabilize your elbow and mostly move from your forearm or wrist. Standing, you move your whole arm. You can gain as much control moving your whole arm, but you can't get as much smooth gesture with a more immobilized arm, so it can be worth it to switch. But it does take time and practice. Moving your whole arm is good for complex shapes you want to draw or cut smoothly, but you'd have to practice. Only you can judge if practicing is worth your time.
I can cut pants on my mat, no problem. You can get them pretty big, if you want. AFAIK, people use mats and rotary cutters because they're generally faster, in part because you can use weights instead of pins, and they generally make smooth, continuous cuts easier. I think they're more associated with fast clothing production than quilting or bias tape, but I could be entirely biased by what kind of content I watch. I do know that where scissors would need more, smaller cuts in tight curves, rotary cutters' performance is constant until their diameter is an issue.
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The rotary cutter is great specially with silk or slippery fabrics, you also have to practice
Hey Evelyn! I highly recommend using Omnigrid rulers when working with a rotator cutter. They’re my go-to every time I need a straight cut. They’re designed for quilting and quilters in mind. I love how their rulers “grip” fabric giving you more sturdier and firm placement as you cut. You’re able to get those straight cuts without any slipping and needing to realign.
That is a good tip. I have a June Tailor and a metal yardstick (meter ruler?) that I use.
I no longer sew garments -- I am a quilter now. Flat-headed pins are known as "flower pins". I have numbered some 1-15 with a fine-point marker. I pin them into strips or sections of a quilt in order to keep them in order as I sew. Numbered flower pins are available online but self-labeled are better because they inevitably get bent or lost. (And no one needs 50 or 100.) Overall invaluable!
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I would TOTALLY recommend using a thicker ruler or a metal ruler to use with your rotary blade since you’re starting out. I speak from experience and having injured multiple valuable plastic and flexible rulers I cherished. Even now, after many years of using it, I still prefer having a thicker ruler as a guarantee that I won’t injure the ruler or myself :)
After ruining plastic and wooden rulers, I now have a metal one !
I use a metal yardstick
The button cutter looks really good. I think I want one.
I love my rotary cutter been using one for a long while. They don’t replace scissors but they do speed up straight cutting.
My serger came with threading tools similar to the ones you showed and that was 1990! My poor old serger we’ve been through a lot together and it’s still going
It took me forever to try a rotary cutter, as i am a bit of a klutz and was afraid of cutting myself. I now use the rotary cutter for cutting out bias strips and for quilting. I found that a metal meter stick is the perfect straight edge for using the rotary. It has a bit of weight to it which helps in holding the fabric. Now that I have had some experience, I have purchased a smaller cutter that works well on curves. I do now use rotary cutters for patterns, but will never give up my shears. I am all for finding and using tools that make my task easier and the results more accurate. Happy Sewing!
Definitely use a ruler that doesn't slip. You can get pads to stick to the ruler which helps a lot.
Also for smaller square rulers, a small cheap 3M hook in the middle helps for grip too 🤗
You can lock your rotary cutter with the red button while cutting so you do not have to push the black handle continuously. Also you should have your forefinger on top of the rotary cutter so you can control your cuts and the pressure provided.
Definitely use the red button to lock the blade open when cutting - one less thing to coordinate.
omg thanks for the tip holding that pressure on it hurts my hands so much
You cracked me up when you had to thread the overlocker! 🤣🤣 And I think I already have one of those overlocker threaders in my tool kit, which I have never used because I didn't know what it was for !
Coil less safety pins - knitting supply’s
Button hole chisel- been thinking about one but have been nervous and not sure if I’d actually use one. Seeing it been used for the first time with such ease helps
It seem a lot of people suggest using a piece of leather under them. I use leather from an old wallet under my hole punch/ notch maker
Flat pins- wouldn’t be with out them now
Overlocker threader- I’ve been using a very small crochet hook and have been looking for a proper set for an age. Just ordered the Husqvarna set so we’ll see.
Rotary cutter- had one since 1995 but to be honest I’ve gone back to scissors for fabric’s As a lefty I prefer the precision I get with my lefty scissors. But I wouldn’t be with out my cutting mats. They sits on my desk all the time.
Just looked at Gemmas shop and there is a darning mushroom- not cheap but yippee
Great and informative video as alway
Thank you
Oh how funny. Lefty here, as well. I use right-handed scissors (I was a casualty of the "green handled scissors" in elementary school--USA). I use the rotary cutter with my left hand. A piece of thick-grained leather under a chisel blade is a great idea--I have used a straight X-Acto blade for slicing buttonholes.
The items you are introducing have been around for years, The loop threader I first got with my first serger in 1983, came with machine. Unbelievable you have never used a rotary cutter--for a garment sewer understandable you have never used, for a quilter, I think I got in late 1980, can't do without. Safety pin a win. Yes you will love the button hole cutter, much cleaner, neater. The flat head pins are helpful. I am much older school than you but the rotary cutter is just very nice! Beware, the blade is extremely sharp and I don't think anyone I know has cut their hand/finger at least once, you absolutely MUST learn safety every time you use it, remember you can cut yourself just as easily on a dull blade!!!! The mats last for many years, but they will in time wear down. You are definitely keeping our other hand way too close to the cutter.
The buttonhole cutter I bought years ago has a small wooden block to use with the cutter. And as for rotary cutters, you need to check out the Martelli ergonomic rotary cutter. They are fabulous!
I have one of them. Still no good for me!
You have received so very good tips for the rotary cutter etc, I have been quilting for about 5 years now and have come to the realisation that it is not for me. I am in a wheelchair and can not stand and I find I can not cut accurately enough sitting. So I only do small pieces. The other thing I would say is that even to cut bias I would buy the proper ruler and a six and a half inch by twenty four inch would be best, the weight of it helps to be more accurate. Thank you for your vlogs, there is always something to learn.
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I love my rotary cutter. I find I get a better cut because I don’t need it raise my fabric off my table and it is quicker. I do agree a thicker ruler would keep you more on track, like that tip.
I love my buttonhole cutter. It came with a tiny, thick cutting mat that keeps me from having to leave my sewing machine to go to my big mat. 💗
For small pattern pieces, I use a 28mm Kai rotary cutter which is so much easier to maneuver than the 45mm.
Oh my goodness, I’m going to be on the lookout for the coiless safety pins and the overlocker needle threaders! They’re genius! 🤩 Thanks for trying out these tools for us.
What make of button hole cutter and mat do you have please
Somebody mentioned that knitters use those coil-less safety pins, so you can also look around for them in the "knitting" section of stores.
I use my rotary cutter to cut out my paper patterns. It was a little bit of a learning curve to not wobble all over the page, but now -- I can zip around the lines in no time. I don't use my rotary cutter to cut much fabric (but I have two JUST for fabric), but for what it saves my hands on the wear and tear of opening and closing scissors -- I won't go back. Growing up, it was my job to cut out the paper patterns. Whenever my mother bought a new one (or several,) we would all sit down and cut them out, right away. Then, gradually, my mother quit, and my sister dropped out, and it was left up to me. In addition, I only cut the biggest size and use the excess ease to drape and fit the garment, so this might not work for folks who grade patterns to their size.
Happy sewing with your new tools!
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I tried the Olfa rotary cutter for the first time a week ago and I’m never going back. I’m not good enough to cut curves yet, but being able to cut a straight line through 10 layers of cotton is completely underrated 💚
You can get small ones that are great for small details and curves I use one for making bras
I use a smaller, 28 mm, rotary cutter for cutting out patterns.
I usually use a piece of thin wire from an electrical cable to thread my overlocked or sewing machine
I've used most of these. The button hole tool is one my mother used 60 years ago, except that you needed to use a hammer, like a chisel. If it hasnt been mentioned, the rotary works best perpendicular to your body, with the cutter straight out from your shoulder. In that way, you rarely have skips. I like it for knits because the fabric stays put instead of wiggling out of line.
I have used those fiddly loop threader since I got my first serger in the 80s! They are super wonderful. To keep up with the store them in a straw. It will protect the fiddly wires.
Great job on tools. The rotary cutter I have used since it came out, but now with mostly into garment sewing and not quilting, I find myself using scissors once again. I like the slower process of cutting each piece and enjoying every step. Before I was always in a hurry and loved whipping through the cutting process as fast as possible! Maybe that comes with age! Also another product I love is the Clover 9506 5 in 1 hem ruler. I alter bridal and prom dresses and this tool is my go to one for hemming and marking . Also, razor blades are my number one unpicking tool! I have a large Mason jar of grandads boxes of blades when he barbered in the 30’s. Still in perfect condition and in use 90 years later!
Nancy yes yes to single edge razor blade. Easy to hold and cut any size threads. Granted after awhile you can use dbl edge blades, but need to be very careful. Also the Single edge blades that are used in a utility knife are great gave a pointed end.
Love the dress in the back ground!
I love the visibility of the flathead pins!
Coiless safety pins are a great tip. Found them on Etsy in various sizes. When using the rotary cutter, I usually use a thicker ruler and stand up while cutting. This way, it is easier to keep the ruler in place putting enough pressure on it, so it won't slip sideways.
The rotary cutter is great for cutting knits- using pattern weights. Cotton knits and such don't move and since the fit is in the stretch of the fabric, the pattern pieces tend to have straight lines. Those are made for a rotary cutter. Also, I have a tiny cutter that will do sharp curves and points. You are right, its also great for bias tape. I also have a very large rotary cutter that is great for thick fabrics like felt or polar fleece.
I've used a buttonhole cutter for years. Here in the US, they come with an eyelet cutter (circle) and either a block of wood or a very tiny mat. I've gotten some that aren't very sharp, so watch out. But yes, they are so easy to use and cut so nicely. I don't wiggle it, just position in and press down firmly. You can feel it slice thru the layers of fabric.
It is 50 years since I acquired my little chisel buttonhole cutter. It came with a second-hand Brother sewing machine, already well used and purchased in UK.
@@chriswatson1698 I agree. The original I got over 40 years ago is still sharp. It's the new ones that aren't. Silly me for ordering a duplicate when the original was good enough.
@@patriciaferrito9245 I have to sharpen mine. Which is easy. I use the same stone that I use for knives.
I always use a 28mm rotary cutter to get round the collars and armscyes. I bought my first self-healing mat from art supplies in the 1990s, because I hated the green they came in in those days. The beauty of the rotary cutter: no pinning the pattern to the fabric (unless it is really wobbly) just use weights. I cut on the floor, I’m with Rhonda478, sitting down may not word as well for rotary cutting. I had to contend with an irregular wood floor so the cutting mat was a life saver for me. When I was looking for an overlocker I soon saw I would need one of the expensive air-threading ones or I would not use the machine. They have been on the market for so long now, you can get a second hand one if price is the issue.
There are alot of great comments here but there are just a couple of things that you or others might find useful. Use the lined side of the mat for strait cutting. Lining the ruler up with the lines on the mat is what makes fast, strait, even cuts. Then use the blank side on the back for cutting out curved pattern pieces. I love your rewiews great job.
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Hi. Thanks for your reviews. My button cutter came with a small mat (Amazon). Please be careful when using the rotary cutter. I never go backwards...lift the cutter and start over but never go backwards. Keep your fingers out of the way. I don't use it for cutting garment pattern pieces. And yes, you will need the correct ruler as the cutter can jump those thin rulers and cause injury. Those threaders for the serger look like they would be good for the sewing studio. Thanks!
Rotary Cutter tips: ALWAYS stand, view from above is best & a little body weight helps keep ruler & cutter straight. Start your rolling cut at edge of fabric, not in center. Cut rolling in 1 direction. Back & forth motion will encourage fabric shifting.
I use a small (18mm) Rotary when cutting small pieces or around especially tight curves.
I also have a 'permanent ' cutting mat on my table now. I too am a garment maker. My mat is 35 inches x 55 inches. Plenty big enough for plus size pattern pieces. And that permanent placement has saved my table quite a bit over the years from other, not sharp, projects! In the US you can get them for under $100. They aren't self healing but I recycle mine every 3-4 years & replace it.
Also look for videos on caring for/cleaning your self healing mat. You'll find ways to maintain the mat for its best life!
Was with a friend who quilts today and the no-coil pins might be more common and easier to find in quilting shops.
I have recently started using a rotary cutter and I find you have to stand to use it and I have practiced and can cut very quickly and accurately. I have a second one for cutting out paper patterns. I use the old blades in that one. I love it.
I highly recommend using the rotary cutter to cut your pattern and fabric. I cut out all my patterns with a rotary cutter and pattern weights on two cutting mats placed end to end on my kitchen countertop. You need to stand up and go slowly and carefully. I use a small pair of scissors to mark notches and cut around small curves. It works very well on all types of fabrics. Cuts are clean and straight. You will need to practice, but it will be a real game changer.
I use a thicker ruler and weigths when cutting with my rotatori wheels. I place the weigths over the ruler to hold the ruler and prevent shifting of my ruler or fabric. Try it Also go straigth forward with the rottatory cutter to prevent accidents. Some people like to use gloves to protect their hands but it make it hard to manage. Thanks Evelyn for your
great videos. I enjoy them a lot. I made some of your pin cushin holders and i love them. GBY TX/ PR
When using the rotary cutter, stand up to cut. Also start at the end don't push the cutter backwards and forwards. Just put pressure on the rotary cutter by standing and cut forward with a quilting ruler or free hand. Make sure you keep your fingers out of the way as the blade is surgical steel. Also as you are using a fisco mat with an olfa cutter, you will find that your blade will get blunt quicker. Really enjoy your videos .... Happy sewing 🧵🪡
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Rotary cutting, requires you to be standing for ergonomics and effective cutting. Small or tight pattern pieces require a smaller blade to be effective. You definitely need a quilting ruler when using a rotary cutter. That said I still love my Kai shears.
Threading over lockers, I solved this by buying a self threading overlocker - it’s expensive but I love it and more to the point, actually use it!
I’ve used flat headed pins for a while now. A word of caution, they are not suitable for fine fabrics- I tend to use pattern weights and on occasion I have used magic tape, the type does not damage paper patterns or fabric.
Hi Evelyn I always enjoy your videos and learn from them. I know you’ve always said you’re sticking to your scissors but it’s always good to try new things. Looks like you have the midsize rotary cutter so there is a smaller one that works for small curves and such and the cutting mats you can actually have custom made. I’ve seen them be as large as the cutting table. So they can be used in dressmaking and work well for both quilters and dressmakers. I myself use scissors but when I first started sewing back in the eighties I don’t even know if rotary cutters had been introduced to quilters or seamstresses lol. I have purchased a rotary cutter and mat so now I might unbox them and try. Oh last thing in watching older videos about rotary cutters they actually would encourage the use of a protective glove and after hearing the nightmare stories I found them on Amazon and fully intend to wear it when I use the rotary cutter 😊
I have all sizes and all different makes and have tried and tried but can't get a nice straight line. Curves end up weird shapes and I have given up! Even with the frame with slots to cut along doesn't work for me. Blade, yes, a new sharp one, jumping all over the place! Scissors all the way from now!
Girl, the rotary cutter will change your life!🙌
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In clothes making rotary cutters are good for cutting bias tape, straps, belting, shortening the bottoms of garments, generally longer straight cuts. I am amazed some people use them to cut all pattern pieces. I feel it’s risky getting around curves and such. You definitely need a thick, firm ruler. There are handles you can get that suction on to a good sized ruler for safety, then you have a nifty tool ready to go and safer!
Hi Evelyn, I just happened onto your page. I've never seen the coil less safety pins, definitely going to have to find some! I used the 28mm rotary cutter for cutting masks and if making the same size I could cut 4 layers at a time. Pay attention to @teresadejong3011 comments, she has mentioned everything that I was going to for safety. As she said: never, NEVER cut towards you. Cut away from you. Don't cut cross-handed. Turn your work , or the mat so that you cut in the right direction. A rotary cutter is an excellent tool for garments besides quilting but you really need to follow the safety rules for them, they are VERY sharpp and can do a lot of damage. ALWAYS put the safety (the red button to lock) on as soon as you finish. If you drop it without the lock on, it could be disasterous. Someone suggested to lock it so you didn't have to hold the black handle while cutting. It's there for a reason, please do not lock it open!
Plus the rotary cutters biggest advantage is the number of layers you can cut at one time. I imagine you found that the unlock button is also the lock button once you have the blade exposed. My only negative experience is when I bumped my finger with the blade; holy cow they are sharp!
I have a fiskars cutting mat, and it isn't as self-healing as others... the rotary cutter, though, you need to stand up, apply some firm pressure, and kind of press the blade against the ruler. Also, you can fold fabrics to fit on the mat. But yes, the rotary cutter's main purpose is to cut straight lines, and for that it is invaluable! I make a lot of bags, so I love my rotary cutter and cutting mat!
My partner bought me a button hole cutter and I adore it!!! Also, change your rotary cutter blades as soon as they start to drag.
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I use a carpenter square, metal and very stable. You can also lock the blade in place. Practice is good (I use your 3 Ps advice). Took a bit to get used to, but now I love using it
Love that you are open to trying new things! I love my rotary cutter because of what you mentioned about hand issues. My hands fatigue really quickly with scissors, so the rotary cutter is a wonderful thing. I have a set of three large mats that can be used individually or all clamped together to cut out large garment pieces. I've had them for at least 10 years and they're still going strong.
Buttonhole chisels are wonderful if you are sewing a ton of buttonholes. If you don't then they're probably unnecessary. I've always just punched straight down rather than rock side to side.
I personally hate those flat pins because the heads melt if an iron gets anywhere near them. They also are super thin and bend out of shape quickly. I use big washers from the hardware store as pattern weights. Once the piece is cut out and marked I use a couple of pins to hold the pattern and fabric together if I'm not going to be able to sew right away.
Another advantage to the flat pins is that they can be sewn or ironed over.
For smaller or more-intricate cutting, use a smaller rotary cutter.
you can also iron over GLASS HEAD pins too
The overlocker threader is a game changer with my brother overlocker, makes it alot easier to thread
I had wondered about flat straight pins and I think I will switch to those based on your demonstration. I also liked the straight threader and the button hole cutter. I have used the rotary cutter for straight edges because apart from having to stand over it to cut, you should also only cut away from you. This makes it hard to use properly for dressmaking buy it really is a time saver for making bias binding and quilting blocks. Love the tutorial. Thank you!
I got a tiny self healing mat with my button hole cutter, about 5 cm square and it is really helpful. I've seen wood blocks also. I only use my rotary cutter for straight cuts and not cutting out pattern pieces. Thanks for the review.
One tip I would recommend on the rotary cutter….Always push in the safety button to keep the blade disengaged when it is not in your hand. You could easily knock off the cutter and hit your leg or even foot. The blade is so sharp it will go easily through skin and anything else in its way. I love my rotary cutter, just have to learn to respect it to stay safe.
Thanks for the great videos. I love watching 😍
Coil-less safety pins are the only thing I never heard of (okay, the specific threaders for overlockers too, but I don't use overlockers, so that never came up in my sewing live).
Usually I just add a small bead to the safety pin before piercing the fabric, that blocks the beginning of the coil quite sufficiently I find.
I never use my rotary cutter for patterns, I use it for all my quilting. Please be careful when you use it, I would also recommend a safety glove and always cut away from yourself. I have switched to the flat clover pins, started using them when I started quilting, they are great but be careful if you have something pinned and are pressing as the tops will melt. I like the springless safety pins, I will look for them and the looper threader looks good. Thanks for sharing.
I haven’t found flatheads thin enough for finer fabrics. Have you found them anywhere?
Don't feel bad, I have been sewing for nearly 60 years and never used a rotary cutter! I'm going to give it a try.
YASSS!!! I just got a rotary cutter for the first time and it is LIFE CHANGING.
I use titanium blades for my RC and rarely have to change them. I cut daily, a lot. Also, invest in the buttonhole cutter that comes in a pak along with the eyelet cutter and the tiny maple cutting board to cut your holes. Trust me, it will ruin your self sealing mat. You need to use your BH cutter on a piece of hardwood. The eyelet cutter is another fabulous tool you will use a lot for other purposes as well.
Rotary cutters are amazing to use. You need to stand when using them. Also if you want to use them for smaller areas, there are smaller sized ones. I even use them to cut out doll clothes. Do need to be careful they are super sharp. Work with it for a while and you'll fall in love with them. The looper threaders I have been using for years. A must have. With the exception of the buttonhole cutter and the safety pins all the other items are in my stash.
Try an 18mm rotary cutter. You also get pinking blades for the rotary cutter. Game changer x
Flat headed pins sounds like a dream. I started sewing with just a few of them small metal pins with tiny heads that seem to come free with little sewing kits. Now I have four different styles of pins so this will make it five, that said they all have a purpose and I do use them differently depending on what I am making.
Coil-less safety pins! hmm will have to consider them, maybe.
Def fun trying new things. I've done a lot of bags w/heavy outdoor fabric etc. Straight lines etc - Love the rotary cutter for that. Getting into clothing and I look forward to finally using my cutting shears for that. I think the rotary cutter would be more difficult with the curves etc.