While rotary cutters are essential for accurate cutting in quilting, they are very sharp. Always pay attention to what you are doing and be cognizant of the fact that a rotary cutting blade is as sharp as a kitchen knife, so pay it the same respect.

Essential Rotary Cutter Safety Tips for Quilting

Choose the Right Size Cutter

A basket full of tools including 2 rotary cutters, scissors and various pens

While rotary cutters are available in a number of sizes, the predominant sizes you will see in quilting are 45mm and 60mm, and either size will do. Most quilters start with a 45mm rotary cutter.

If you find you are cutting large amounts of fabric and/or cutting for long periods of time, then I recommend a 60mm cutter. Since the blade is larger, you will find that it glides easier, thus making cutting easier. I move back and forth between 45mm and 60mm cutters all the time. I just choose which feels better for the day and the project.

I always recommend Olfa rotary cutters to new quilters. First, they are inexpensive and second, they last a long time. My first Olfa rotary cutter from 21 years ago is still going strong.

Always Pay Attention to What you Are Doing

I can’t say this enough, please pay attention when you are cutting with a rotary cutter. It is very easy to roll off of the ruler and onto your hand. Many years ago, before I learned my lesson, I rolled the cutter off the side of the ruler and over the top of my thumb. While I didn’t do any major damage, it bled a lot and really hurt. Be safe and watch what you are doing at all times.

Cover the Blade When you Put The Cutter Down

You may find this to be a tedious step, but please make sure you cover your blade when you put the cutter down on your mat or table. By taking this extra step, you can avoid an open blade falling off of your table or hitting your hand as you adjust fabric on your table. I have had an open rotary cutter fall off of my table a few times, and I have come close to impaling my foot. Take a second to cover your blade and avoid injury.

Use Sharp Blades and Replace Dull Blades

Picture of a silver Olfa rotary cutter blade. Text says Replace your Blade

I realize that rotary cutter blades are another expense in quilting, but they are a necessary expense. As soon as you have trouble cutting with one pass, you will need to replace your blade soon. Like rotary cutters, I highly recommend Olfa blades. I know there are less expensive blades out there, but I can’t speak to how well they work.

Always dispose of your blades safely. Do not just drop one in a plastic garbage bag. I know some recycling centers will recycle your blades, so check out your local facility for more info.

Check Out My Video

I recently made a quick video on Rotary Cutting Safety. Check it out here.

My Final Thoughts

Rotary cutters are a necessary quilting tool. While you can cut your fabric with scissors, your cuts will not be as accurate, and it will take far longer since you have to take the time to mark your fabric prior to cutting.

Rotary cutters are safe as long as you follow some common sense practices. Use a rotary cutter for the most accurate fabric cuts.

Get Your Freebie!

If you want to learn more about Rotary Cutting Fundamentals, join me for my free 3 day workshop (November 19-21). Each day you will receive a quick recorded video to view. On November 22, I will be holding a live Q&A where you can ask me your questions.

Click here to join my workshop and get your free guide, The Top 5 Tools Every Beginner Quilter Needs.

I hope you found this helpful. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to email me here.

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