This is Why Your Rotary Cutter Isn't Working (5 Troubleshooting Tips)

[@kendranewton9071]

I used to keep my old blades in a container like you, I bought myself a blade sharpener and found I can sharpen a blade 2-3 times before they go in the used box. My old needles go into an old pill bottle. Thanks for your great info.

[@randyolson5001]

Where do you get the resharpening tool?

[@user-oh2si4jz9m]

What do you use to sharpen your blades?

[@kendranewton9071]

@@randyolson5001 from Amazon listed under true cut rotary cutter, same company makes them

[@glendasmoot2430]

What kind of sharpener did you buy!?

[@JoSews-t6m]

I got my blade sharpener at JoAnn’s. It works well.

[@nevaannegrant453]

Yes, I have put two blades on by mistake and it is horrible. I use your system for disposal except I mark an X directly on the used blade with a sharpie. Then when I don’t have a second blade container I can put the used blade in the bottom of the same container as the new ones. Great tutorial on changing the blade. I can never remember which way the washer is supposed to go. The cowboy hat is great memory aid, thank you.

[@kathyburns1676]

Great tips, Hailey. I do the same as you with my old blades, which is to store them in an old blade container marked "used". I also write the number of new blades on the new package container (and change it when I take one out), so that I can double check that I'm only taking one out and putting one on my rotary cutter. I put my old needles and bent pins in an old prescription bottle labeled "sharps". I don't have young kids around, but it still makes it seem a little safer.

[@annie_the_mad_quilter]

Being diabetic, I have a special container for my lancets and insulin needles. This is where I dispose of old rotary blades and sewing machine needles. When full, I can lock it closed and return the container to either the pharmacy or my doctor’s office for disposal.

[@ButlerFan2010]

I was sure I didn't have two blades because I remember trying to slide them apart before installing. I was wrong. Thank you for this amazing, quick video.

[@deborahpowell4373]

I love the tip on how to put the nut back on correctly. And Inn be love the idea of using an old blade to cut wrapping paper. Thanks so much. I have used the old container to dispose of a blade, and old pill bottles for old needles. This past Christmas I received the cute flower thread cutter. Deborah Powell

[@zulemasarinana9218]

I bought a rotary blade sharpener years ago and it does the job! It takes a little bit of effort and time, but it works. I also,separate the used blades in an old container and sharpen them when I have time. Or use them to cut rapping paper also!

[@barbaradesoto3484]

Thank you so much!! I had the washer upside down and was having trouble cutting. This is so irritating especially with the cost of fabric. It hurts to mess up my beautiful fabric, too.

[@missmatti]

Omg! I had two stuck together too! 😮 I was desperately trouble shooting and nothing worked and the fabric got stuck to the blade(s). Now I know why 🤦🏼‍♀️ thank you! 💕✨

[@Craftythrifter]

Yes! I once had two blades in! It was so weird. I got this really thin pc of fabric every time I cut. I finally took it apart cuz I just couldn’t imagine how this was happening and that’s when I figured it out!!!

[@peggyjones1222]

That's what I do with my old blades. Cut paper and gift wrapping. They work well with cutting card stock to make quilted cards. I store in the container that has been written "old" on it.

[@tigger8442]

Great tips! Thank you! I use a different colored rotary cutter labeled for paper and other craft works. I bought a sharps container a couple of years ago and put all my needles, pins and blades into this for disposal.

[@HaileyStitches]

Great tip for using different cutters for different purposes!

[@nancy9478]

I like the second cutter idea! Thanks for the tip.

[@marilynmckenzie2111]

Thank you so much for this very helpful video! I took my cutter apart, but couldn’t remember how to put it back together. Now I know. 👏🏻🧑🏻‍🦰🇨🇦

[@wakeupjoey]

great video. I have had two blades stick together. I use an empty plastic Mentos gum container to collect my old blades, needles and anything else that is sharp.

[@JulesMadeThis24]

I love the tip about the “cowboy hat” for that little washer! I never seem to remember which way it was fitted when I took it off and now I know…. Thank you so much 😊

[@mariethomson9676]

I have 2 rotary cutters. One is an older one I don't like using. That one is the one that gets the old blades for crafting or X-mas paper etc.

[@carolmacdormand2663]

I put sharp metal sewing items in a “Sharps” container that can be taken into a pharmacy when full.

[@connieolson8497]

Omgosh, yes, I changed blade, cut fabric, sewed a quilt, cutting the binding, I started having trouble, with skipping or shredding while cutting strips. I took the rotary blade apart, oily blade and lint! Then I noticed two blades stuck together! I tossed one. Now it works much better. I have used Rotary cutters for a long time this is a first time that happened at least now I feel much better knowing it’s happens! Thanks, I always wondered about the nut.

[@Debee109]

Thank you for this video, great information. I also wipe out the area the blade sits in to remove lint and the old oily residue before inserting a new blade. I too use old prescription bottles for bent or broken pins & needles. I use my old blades in a seperate rotary cutter, clearly marked and kept in a seperate place, to cut paper, card stock and zippers when making pouches or bags. I do like the idea of the thread cutters that use old blades but it is too costly for me.

[@melisahorsley2061]

I have a container labeled "old" for used blades as well. Thank You for this information ❤

[@sandis3519]

This is all great information!! I put my old blades in a container marked old also. I can see how easy it would be to put 2 in together. Thank you for a great video! 💕

[@painiacs83]

I put all blades, old needles , bent pins in old medicine bottles with chid proof lids if possible. Im not sure if pharmacies would take them but this way wont accidently open. Great video

[@tommylamb4643]

I bought a thread cutter that looks like a flower. The used blade fits between the two sides of “the flower.” The flower fits into a sturdy disk that holds “ the flower” up for cutting threads. The used blade is exposed between “the petals.” It is great for separating sections of chain piecing quickly. I’ve put two blades in my handle….

[@sunaylor]

You can use that little flower cutter to take on aircraft that won't allow scissors. Great for embroidery while flying.

[@kstorts7348]

To store used blades and needles I use an empty chewing tobacco can. The can is perfect for any blade size and it’s been over a year and still is not full. For needles I use the same type can with a hole punched in the top (offset from the center for easy insertion). For the needle can, I tapped around the lid to easily differentiate the cans in my notions drawer.

[@joycebeck2518]

Good ideas presented very well. I appreciate your straightforward yet pleasant delivery! My. Used rotary blades go into an empty screw top jar or container that was going to be thrown away anyway. Thank you for your videos.

[@fransak2723]

I’ve gotten in the habit of threading a thin strip of fabric through the handle of my rotary cutter. Then I mark the date on the fabric when I change the blade. I use old chewing gum containers for sharps. One of my older rotary cutters is marked with a sharpie “paper” I use it to cut foundation papers before and after stitching.

[@cherylkrouse7704]

The two blade error just happened to me! I wish I had viewed your tutorial last week. 😊

[@fionahunt8530]

Wow, just checked and I had two blades stuck together! Thanks so much for the tip, my cutter should work better now.

[@Beruthiel45]

I've got a rotary cutter that has never worked right ever since I bought it, years ago, so it sits unused among my sewing tools. I wondered why they were so popular when they don't work so well. Perhaps I bought a lemon. I'll go check it out again and see if it has any of the flaws you mention, in your very helpful video. My husband was diabetic so we have a sharps bottle provided by the pharmacy so I use that for disposing of anything pointy, but I have no used blades to worry about for now anyway. I have a small stash of little containers that I can use if necessary for any larger blades than those in Stanley cutters, but they rarely need replacement it seems.

[@gaylevargo2490]

I too have had a problem with a rotary cutter. I even took it back to the manufacturer and they gave me a new one. First time I change the blade...it no longer works properly. I have put that blade in and out several times, still does not work right. I love my cheapo fiskers. I've had that one for 10 yrs or more!

[@JulieMoss-df8rv]

Thanks so much for this Tip! the cowboy hat story is the perfect reminder.

[@user-mv5rb2od3r]

Great presentation. I accidentally had the 2 blade problem. You're right- it was horrible. Now I keep track of the number of new blades. Question: Does position of washer affect performance?

[@juliannaburgess9177]

Thank you for this video. Great reminder. My error was inverting that little metal "cowboy hat". Lol!

[@alexandra-zaza-burns]

Two blades on your rotary cutter is more likely to happen in the winter as the oil on the blades thickens in colder temperatures. It’s the first thing I check if my blades aren’t cutting properly. You should try to cut on different areas on your mat. This is easier if you use the ruler to measure, rulers are more accurate than mats, especially some of the cheap ones. That’s advice came from Olfa.

[@user-jk2hb5qq8r]

Good advice, thank you.😊

[@user-zy1rv3rr3t]

Oh my, I've just realised I had 2 blades in there 😂 Thank you!

[@cathymontowski1263]

I put my old blades in a large mouth pill bottle, when full dispose. I also put my old needles in a smaller pill bottle.

[@reneeschimel3631]

Great tips! Yes, I have accidentally had two blades on my rotary cutter 😂. I love the idea of using the old blades for wrapping paper 😊

[@lindaconner3236]

I really really needed this video !!! Ty so very much !!! I am so new at this the shine is here... 🤭☺️

[@user-wp5xi5eo6p]

I have had issues with Rotary Cutters for ages ! The blades just won't secure properly ... this happens mostly with my Fiskars cutters ... After a few uses, it wobbles horribly and the screw comes loose. I do install the washer ... I have even gone and bought new ones at the hardware store ... Anyway ... Should you take a cloth or tissue to wipe that oil off before inserting it into your cutter? I have always wondered about that. Wouldn't the oil transfer to your fabric until the fabric basically 'wipes' it off?
A friend of mine had some dental work done (Honest!) and they gave her a container that had a cushion foam in the bottom and a snap lid ... When she no longer needed the container, I asked if I could have it. I marked Used Sharps on it and all my used or damaged blades and my used/dull needles go in there. They are secure and the little tub holds tons. Once it is actually full, I take some cardboard and make a little sleeve ... pop everything into it ... tape it up thoroughly and throw it in the trash. It takes quite a while to fill the tub but it's perfect for controlling my used sharps.
Thank you for these tips ... they are great!

[@archivist68]

The first few weeks I began quilting I didn't have an old container. I put an old blade on a large piece of masking tape and fold over the edges. Now I just drop them in a wide sharps container. Yeah, I know..weird 😂. At some point I'll switch over to using the old blade container.

[@patblood6384]

There have been times when I find that the screw holding it all together has loosen up. Tighten up the screw and I'm back in business!!

[@brendahunter7298]

Yes I have done this!

[@deewinston5651]

Thank you for the tips.

[@leanichols6824]

I put old rotary blades in a plastic container. When it's full I toss it. For extra protection I put packing tape around the lid. I put old needles and any broken pins in an old pill bottle and label it broken pins and spent needles. I haven't put two blades on at once, yet, but caught myself almost doing this recently.

[@patriciaadams2131]

Thanks for the tips. I use a small glass jar to put blades and old sewing needles in. And YES those double blades will ruin everything. Your material will look like a shredded mess!! 😩

[@carolelandry4639]

Awesome tips!!!

[@Crawford644]

Thank you for your great tips on the past i didnt k it at the time but yes the blades do stick together so i did have 2 blades in my cutter at the same time was wandering why my fabric wasnt cutting right i figured it out oh well oooops happens 😅thanks again

[@user-lr9zd8th5s]

I use one of my mothers large empty pill bottles that fits up to a size45 rotary blades along with pins and needles. It has the safety cap so when I put them in my trash I know I will not get cut or poked.

[@conniefath5126]

I HAD 2 BLADES IN ROTARY CUTTER TOO!

[@MaureenAO]

I have done two rotary blades!

[@lindacrawford5029]

Great tips!

[@cynthiafiloromo1432]

What about those blade sharpeners for rosaries! Do they work, as I have one.

[@CherylRobinson-sr7xd]

I have tried everything. This is a new rotary cutter and first blade change and no washer was on it. The blade will not cut without a bumping movement and then won’t turn. Suggestions? I’ve bought several cutters and they are fine until I change the blade.

[@donnaturner2089]

Yep! I am guilty. I have installed two blades in my rotary cutter.

[@dorinegardner921]

I use a plastic frosting container for my blades and needles.

[@robertaarrowsmith2860]

I actually did that-2 blades in the cutter. I have been sewing for years. The minute I had a problem, I took out the blade. I thought it was awfully think. So I checked. Yep, 2 blades. Now I double-check when changing. I also use an endurance blade now. There is only one blade in the pack. Thank you for this great video. 😃😍🪡🧵

[@nevafitzgerald2402]

HAILEY thank you for the awesome tips . I have tried several rotary cutter I give the ones I don't like away and the ones I have kept one to for paper crafts! So tell me please were can I buy a quilt latter like yours ,❤❤🙏

[@SBL1932]

Yes it has happened. It took me a while to figure it out.

[@denisebooth866]

To store old blades I do it the way you do. Yes on accidentally putting 2 blades in, thankfully only once 😂.

[@doreensherk287]

I dispose of my blades the way you do, and yes I have had 2 blades in my cutter because of their sticking together.

[@vikkisnider9702]

I've don't two before! Took me a couple cuts to figure out what was wrong😂.

[@georgeannwhite9595]

I’ve done the 2blates together.

[@karenfielder8022]

Washer like cowboy hat! Thank you, I never was sure which side was up…

[@janetroberts2262]

Me too. I lay the bits out as I take them off but I dropped the washer and am always wondering if it is the right way round, can’t wait to check it now 😂

[@darleneappleman3911]

Ive had 2 blades together i use sewing pin seperate them

[@jennijones7788]

Been there, also got the T shirt of accidentally husing 2 instead of 1

[@4golfing]

i keep my old blades and use them for cutting paper patterns

[@ericlion2208]

We have containers for scrap metal where you can put blades, needles without plastic, etc. in them. There is no risk of injury to anyone as everything is sorted by machines.

[@andersonfabricsquiltshop]

Is there a place to get washers? Mine got lost

[@margaretandrade6093]

I place my used blades, needles, & bent pins in an old prescription bottle.

[@peadee8770]

A 6th to add is, you lost the flexible washer in front of the screw nut. I hadn't realized mine was gone--try to find a replacement that works.

[@loraineleuschke4186]

I put mine back into the original case, but I tape the case closed to prevent injury to the trash pickup staff.

[@mier6536]

Yes I’ve had it doubled.

[@brendamarsh4081]

Yes I've managed to put two blades on my cutter and you're right, it won't work!

[@user-lr9zd8th5s]

My mother has empty prescription bottles, larger ones, is where I put my bad blades and old needles

[@lindacrawford5029]

I’ve used Harbor Freight carpet cutting blades works good! Cheaper

[@jamesf1165]

These blades can be sharpened no?

[@glendak4093]

Where can I get new washers?

[@GayleHallAZ]

I just need to make sure that I understood you correctly regarding the washer. It should be returned to the assembly with the peak of the bend (top of the “cowboy hat”) facing me as I look down at it, correct?

[@HaileyStitches]

The washer should be placed flat side first so that the curved sides of the washer point away from the blade.

[@GayleHallAZ]

Thank you for your quick response. I think I’ve got it now. This video was very helpful!

[@lapaylor4039]

I haven't had a washer on a rotary blade in years... so they unscrew themselves every time I use it,

[@lavenderlaceladylavenderla5420]

Two blade issue has happened to me.

[@annemckenzie2949]

I use Parmesan container. Once full, I plan to tape it & throw away

[@UtahGmaw99]

I will add one thing. If you are in a hurry SLOW down. I always have problems when in a hurry and have cut myself a couple of times. I have made tons of mistakes because I was to busy cutting to stop and change the blade. Yes I have done the double blade thing too.lol👍

[@denisewarner8982]

Twice, I’ve done this. Two blades in at the same time.

[@MrsTeddy-yw9fk]

I use my old blade for cutting paper

[@paulamccoy5308]

I have had 2 blades stuck together.

[@janetmckeen-peterkin5963]

I have disposed of my rotary blades the same way you do.

[@brendalockard1677]

Yes I’ve accidentally put 2 blades on at one time!

[@cherieseward9868]

I put my blades and needles in a Pringle can

[@HotchStuff]

I use a empty gum plastic container.

[@nancy-katharynmcgraw2669]

I like to place old blade into same package, & label them as for PAPER; use these also to fit foam core board, to make by portable design boards & paper .
I have had 2 blades stuck together, too.. just be careful...new blades are SHARP!
LESS costly, buying multiple blades per pack. Buy from a very reputable company, cheaper blades I have found in big box stores such as Harbor Freight & not labeled as Olfa, or a couple of other Rotary handles & blades companies.
RULE 6, Not for thin sliced 🍕🍕 🍕 pizza!!!
Rule #7. NOT FOR OPENING SHIPPING BOXES THROUGH TAPE; OK FOR USED BLADES; HAND MOVEMENTS ARE DIFFERENT..YOU WILL GET CUT MUCH more easily!
Endurance blades seem to last longer, but still need replacing. I have only seen them packaged 1 blade per package, at about $45.00 each...

[@HaileyStitches]

Great tips! I've heard good things about Harbor Freight too. And LOL about the pizza - I do think "hmmm this is familiar" each time I use my pizza cutter!

[@lizreynolds4554]

I'm having an issue with the nut unscrewing as I cut?
I bought a blade sharpener, I'm hoping it will help cuts.
Have a blessed day. Thank you for sharing this with us.😊🪡

[@margaretleduc7307]

I use an empty coffee can for blades, needles pins. When I empty another coffee can, I throw out all of the used blades, needles and pins. Yes, I once had 2 blades in the rotary cutter. Ugh!

[@cyvonn]

I do the absolute most when I dispose of a blade. I put the bade in an envelope, fold the envelope, then I tape the envelope like crazy with either packing tape or duct tape, then put it in a used grocery bag and tie a knot in it. Then I throw it away. Like I said, the absolute most because I have a very creative imagination and I'm clumsy. That's not a great combination.

[@paulanagy2089]

Sharpes container from pharmacy is for shapes not the garbage

[@MH.Harald]

🙏❤

[@debracook9272]

😊Yep, 2 blades at once don't work to well!

[@jbartrug574]

I use my old rotary blades to cut out my pdf patterns.

[@tomclifton3920]

I just wrap my old blade in blue painters tape and toss it in the trash..

[@marilynmckenzie2111]

Thank you so much for this very helpful video! I took my cutter apart, but couldn’t remember how to put it back together. Now I know. 👏🏻🧑🏻‍🦰🇨🇦