Hey there, fellow sewing enthusiast! Let's talk about something we all know is crucial: keeping our trusty rotary cutters performing at their best. Whether you're a sewist or a quilter, you understand the frustration of dull blades. But don't fret, I've got your back with some friendly and helpful tips to ensure those blades stay sharp as ever. By the way, did you know that a sharp blade not only saves you time and money but also helps reduce waste? Let's dive into nine tips that will make your rotary cutter blades stay top-notch!
Use a Cutting Mat
Starting off strong with a tip that's often overlooked. Whenever you're slicing through fabric, make sure to use a cutting mat underneath. This simple step protects your blades from getting dulled by hard surfaces like tables or your living room floor. Plus, it keeps your fabric intact and prevents unfortunate accidents from slippery slips. Your blades and fabric will both thank you for this.
Don't Cut Too Fast
Remember, rotary cutters aren't built for speed. Take your time, make steady cuts, and avoid overworking the blade. This simple mindfulness will keep your cuts crisp and your blades sharper for longer.
Avoid Cutting Through Multiple Layers Especially with Thick Fabrics
I get it, we all want to be efficient, but cutting through too many layers at once strains your blade. It's like overloading a superhero. Opt for cleaner cuts by going easy on the layers, and both your blade and your projects will thank you.
Avoid Cutting Over Pins
Pin lovers, beware! Cutting over pins can quickly dull your blade. Avoid this by using a pin cushion or a mat with a grid pattern. Arrange your pins along the grid lines to ensure they don't cross paths with your blade. If you happen to cut over a pin by mistake, don't fret. Simply be extra cautious when removing the fabric to prevent any additional harm to the blade.
Invest in High-Quality Blades
Remember the saying "Buy cheap, buy twice"? Well, it's true when it comes to rotary cutter blades. Quality matters! Opt for reliable and good quality brands like Olfa or Dafa, which are known for their durability. They'll cut through fabric like a breeze and save you both time and money from not constantly replacing dull blades.
Choose the Right Size Blade
Size matters! Match your blade to the fabric thickness. Using a small blade for thick fabrics wears it out quickly, while a large blade on delicate fabrics can cause fraying. Balance is key. Using a smaller blade for intricate cutting makes life so much easier as you have more control over the cutting process, where as using a large blade for cutting out long straight lines is like a hot knife cutting through butter.
Keep Your Blades Clean
Show your blades some love! After each project, give them a wipe-down with a soft cloth. Lingering lint, fabric particles, and debris can dull your blade's shine, so keep them clean for consistently sharp cuts. Just be careful while cleaning – we don't want any accidental nicks!
Save Old Blades for Paper & Polyester
Don't toss those worn-out blades just yet! They can still shine in a different role. When they're no longer sharp enough for fabric, re-purpose them for cutting paper or plastic-containing materials like polyester and vinyl. It's a great way to extend their usefulness. I do this all the time it saves so much time when cutting out patterns or creating templates with thin clear cutting boards, the rotary blades sail though these and make light work of a time taking task.
Store Your Blades Safely
Sharp objects need safe homes too. When your rotary cutter is not in action, store it in a secure place where it won't get bumped or damaged. This little step can add so much extra to the life of your blades. Check the storage case regularly and replace it if it shows signs of wear.
By following these simple tips, you'll have sharp rotary cutter blades at your service for much longer than before. Imagine spending less time worrying about blade replacements and more time creating stunning sewing and quilting projects. Happy sewing! And remember, to subscribe to my blog for even more sewing and bag related goodness!
Until next time, happy sewing and may your bobbin always be full.
Deb x
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