We talked about sewing machines last time, up next?! CUTTING TOOLS! I had never even heard of a rotary cutter before I started quilting. Growing up, my mom made some patchwork quilts, but she cut everything out with scissors. Adding a rotary cutter to my toolbox was one of the best things I could have added to my toolbox.
Cutting Tools
Any quilter will tell you that the cutting tools you use will either make or break your love of cutting. When I first started quilting, I got a little combo set similar to this one. It was incredibly helpful but wasn't too expensive to be cost prohibitive, especially if I wasn't going to stick with this new hobby. Since then, I have upgraded and below are my preferred cutting tools now.
Small Cutting Mats- this cutting mat is a great size. Measuring 12"x 18" it is perfect for little projects or to add to your travel bag. I have 2 this size now and keep them in my travel set so I am prepared for quilting anytime the mood strikes.
2. Every day Cutting Mat- This cutting mat is perfect for everyday quilting projects. It fits on a tabletop or countertop and easily holds the width of fabric. It is double sided so when one side gets worn, you can just flip it over or, if you want more contrast from your fabric to the cutting mat to see the lines clearer you can choose the appropriate side.
3. Rotating Cutting board- although a rotating cutting board is not needed, it makes some trimming jobs a WHOLE LOT easier. I added this rotating cutting board to my collection about 4 years ago when I had a large project that had TONS of trimming on my blocks.
4. Rotary Cutter- I started my quilting journey with the rotary cutter from the kit mentioned above. After I decided that I was going to invest in quilting, I purchased this rotary cutter.
Like I mentioned above, I had never heard of a rotary cutter until I started quilting. So, adding this tool to my toolkit was essential to making my quilting life easier.
5. Rotary Cutter Blades- there is much debate out there around rotary cutting blades. some people are VERY loyal to the brand of their rotary cutter, others are committed to a particular material in their blades. I must say, I'm not really committed to either one but, a FRESH blade cuts like soft butter and they are fantastic! I have stuck with Olaf blades for the most part but would not be opposed to trying others.