What is a rotary cutter?
A quilter’s rotary cutter is a handheld cutting tool that is commonly used in quilting and other sewing projects. Rotary cutters allow you to make accurate cuts through multiple layers of fabric with speed and precision. It features a circular blade on a roll and is used to cut fabric in a straight line. The blade is typically made of high-quality steel and is sharp enough to cut through multiple layers of fabric at once. The blade is protected by a guard that keeps fingers away from the cutting edge. Rotary cutters come in different sizes and handle designs to fit the user’s preference. They are used in conjunction with a cutting mat, which provides a stable surface for cutting and protects the work surface underneath. Rotary cutters allow quilters to make precise, straight cuts quickly and efficiently, making them a popular choice among quilters and other sewing enthusiasts.
How Do You Choose a Rotary Cutter?
Rotary cutters are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Choosing the right rotary cutter may depend on the material to be cut, blade size needed, type of blade needed, the comfort and style of the grip, and safety features.
Materials
- Fabric
- Batting
- Felt
- Foam
- Vinyl
- Leather
Blade Sizes
When cutting fabric, the size of the blade determines the amount and speed of cutting. For large fabric cutting projects, a 60 mm rotary cutter is recommended. For small cuts or curves, a 28 mm rotary cutter is ideal. A 45 mm rotary cutter is a versatile option, suitable for both extensive cutting and intricate work.
- 18mm: Very small intricate, detailed pieces, curved pieces, only one layer
- 28mm: Designed for cutting small pieces and curved pieces.
- 45mm: Perfect for cutting through one or two layers of fabric. If the blade is brand new, you may cut up to 6 pieces of fabric without the fabric shifting. This is your best choice for your first rotary cutter.
- 60mm Rotary Cutters will cut through several layers of fabric at one time. It can also cut through foam and other heavy-duty materials like leather.
Types of Blades Available
- Titanium
- scallop
- pinking
- wave
Grip Style
- Important for reducing fatigue and wrist pain
- Ergonomic style
- Curved handle
Safety Features to Consider
- Such as an auto-retractable blade
- Safety button
There are a few rotary cutters that are popular among quilters, crafters, and other users. The top-selling rotary cutters include:
- Fiskars 45mm Rotary Cutter: This cutter is known for its durability and sharpness, and it is suitable for cutting multiple layers of fabric at once.
- Olfa 45mm Rotary Cutter: This cutter is also popular for its sharpness and durability and it’s a good option for both left- and right-handed users.
- OLFA 60mm Rotary Cutter: This cutter is a best seller for cutting larger fabrics and can handle multiple layers of fabrics.
- Clover 45mm Rotary Cutter: This cutter is known for its comfortable grip and sharp blade, it is perfect for cutting a variety of fabrics.
- Dritz Rotary Cutter: This cutter is a popular choice for quilters, it is easy to handle and has a comfortable grip.
It’s important to note that the best rotary cutter for you may depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some quilters prefer a larger cutter while others prefer a smaller cutter. Additionally, it’s always recommended to read reviews, ask experts and try them out if possible before making a purchase.
