Well, both of my rotary cutters were starting to skip and drag.  I assumed it was dull blades.  Welll….not just that!!

Do you ever do a rotary cutter clean up? We all clean out our sewing machines to get rid of lint, but what about our rotary cutters?

When I went to replace the blades, here is what I saw:

LINT & DUST–this is some of what I cleaned out.

 

More dust on the inside.  When I moved the handle, I saw even more dust in the mechanism.  So, I’ll remember to do a rotary cutter clean up before I put in a new blade.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FAVORITE, SAFEST ROTARY CUTTER HANDLE

After one too many accidents where I nicked myself on an open rotary cutter that was under a pile of fabric on my cutting table, I said enough and voted for safety!  I threw out all my old rotary cutter handles and invested in some wonderful Olfa Retractable Rotary Cutters.  They can be switched around for right or left handed people.  Unfortunately, most local quilt shops do not carry them. I really don’t know why!  So, I bought mine at Joann’s (with a 40% off coupon). It comes in the 45mm medium size which is fine for me and the 60mm size for those who cut thicker fabrics.

These are much safer, especially if you drop it on the floor [yes, I’ve done that]…or if little children wander into your sewing space.  When you press the black handle, the blade drops and is ready for  cutting.  When you let go,  the blade immediately retracts. The handle works with minimal pressure for those of us with joint issues.  And, there’s less chance of accidental cuts from an open blade laying on your table.  Best of all the small red button is a lock for storage that prevents the black handle from operating.  Perfect for storing it away.   Please buy one and just toss out all the others.  You won’t regret it.  OLFA Deluxe 45mm Rotary Cutter information at the Olfa site.  This type of rotary handle is available from other manufacturers and various retailers so check around.