How to Use a Rotary Cutter

Before you begin using your rotary cutter, there are a few things that you should know. The first thing you need to do is make sure that the cutter blade is protected by a plastic cover.

The blade can fall on the fabric, your bare feet, and even your child. Make sure that you are away from children and pets when using this machine. Additionally, you should change the blade when it becomes dull. Otherwise, you will leave tiny bits of fabric behind.

Pattern weights

Pattern weights are handy accessories to keep your rotary cutter steady when cutting. They hold your fabric in place as you trace the pattern or cut it.

They also help you arrange pattern pieces on the fabric while cutting. These pattern weights are great for any type of fabric and can be used with both scissors and rotary cutters.

A set of four pattern weights comes in assorted colors. Each set contains two weights – one heavy, one light.

Safety latches

A safe latch keeps the blade guard from retracting accidentally when using a rotary cutter. Safety latches should be easy to use and accessible for people with hand mobility issues.

A sliding latch, for example, requires less pressure to open. Most electric razors have a switch or button on the handle that you can operate with your thumb. It is also important to test the latch by rolling the blade slowly along the pattern line.

Sharpening

There are many benefits of Sharpening with a Rotary cutter. For starters, you can save money and time by using this tool instead of sharpening your blade.

With the rotary cutter, you can use a new blade every six months without having to purchase a new one.

It also restores the razor-like edge of a blade. It’s safe and economical to use as it can last up to six months when used every day. The rotary cutter also removes dull spots and small burrs from your blade.

Cutting from the top

When using a rotary cutter, you’ll need a special cutting mat to protect the fabric and the table. If you want to cut a larger piece of fabric, you should consider purchasing a large rotary cutter mat to protect the table and fabric from damage.

Different sizes of blades and handles are suitable for different cutting needs, so you can choose the one that works best for you. Different rotary cutters have different cutting edges – smaller ones are better for narrow curves while larger ones are better for straight seams and large fabrics.

Some rotary cutters have interchangeable blades, which are known as scalloping or pinking blades.

For specialized cutting, you can also buy circle cutters that provide unique cutting patterns.

Keeping edges clean

To ensure that you get the best cut out of your rotary cutter, here are some tips to follow. Use safety gloves while cutting and keep the blades on the non-cutting hand.

Also, keep a spare blade handy in case one of them gets dull. Always cut away from the body and use an even pressure while gliding the cutter.

Keeping edges clean when using a rotary cutter is important, especially when you’re working on delicate fabrics or a large piece of wood.

Using a rotary ruler

Using a rotary ruler can help you cut the fabric into strips and rectangles, as well as other shapes. It’s crucial to hold the ruler with a straight edge, and the markings on it should align with the fold.

It’s also important to extend your fingers across the ruler so that they don’t slip while cutting.

If you’re working with folded fabric, you’ll want to avoid touching the edges of the ruler, which can result in a disastrous accident.

Using a rotary cutter to make squares

Before cutting fabric, you should always prewash it. Use a mild detergent to check for any bleed-through from the dyes. Test a piece of white fabric to see if the fabric comes out clean.

If it does, you can start cutting your fabric. If not, you can also starch or press it to stiffen its surface. Pressing reduces the amount of stretch in the fabric.

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