Debbie-Alford-Quilting Designs

How I care for my rotary cutter

Rotary cutters are one of the most frequently used items of all of my quilting equipment

My care recommendations

With a little bit of care I will:

  • be able to cut fabric and blocks accurately (one of my Golden Rules!)
  • prolong the life of my rotary cutter
  • save on replacement costs

My recommendations for rotary cutter care:

Do – blade changes

Every time I change the blade, I:

Do not

I do not:

  • Use a soft cloth to carefully wipe all components of the rotary cutter to remove any lint or other build-up
  • Add a drop of sewing machine oil to each side of the blade before assembling
  • Add a drop of sewing machine oil on the nut that holds the rotary cutter assembly together
  • Make a few cuts on scrap fabric to make sure that the blade rolls freely
  • Wipe the whole rotary cutter and blade to remove any excess oil
  • Safely dispose of the old rotary cutter blade (click to read my post about safe disposal of sharps)
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions
Do – general use

When using rotary cutters, I:

  • Use my rotary cutter on any surface other than my cutting mat
  • Cut anything other than quilting fabric with my rotary cutter
  • Cut over pins (cutting over pins may take a knick out of my blade)

My blade replacement recommendations

To minimise the risk of a blunt blade affecting my accurate cutting, I replace my rotary cutter blade as soon as notice that some threads remain uncut (probably because a blunt spot on the blade)

Click below to read by guide on safe disposal of sharps:

All of my recommendations are based on my experience and preferences