What To Consider When Buying A Rotary Cutter?
1. What Are You Cutting?
Depending on what you are cutting will determine what type of blade you need.
- 60mm
This is the thickest blade that you can use on standard handheld rotary cutters. This blade is best for medium to heavy-duty cutting jobs. It is designed to cut thicker fabrics and can handle up to 12 layers of cotton fabric. If you are primarily cutting multiple layers in a straight line, then the 60mm is the best option.
- 45mm
This the most versatile blade. This is going to be your day in and day out blade. It can cut most patterns and can cut multiple layers of fabric as well as some thick material. If you are new to sewing or using rotary cutters and can only afford one rotary cutter, then a 45mm is the best option.
- 28mm
The 28mm is best for smaller projects or if you primarily cut 1-3 sheets of fabric at a time. This is an excellent blade size if you are cutting out patterns with tight corners and intricate designs.
- 18mm
This is typically the thinnest blade offered on rotary cutters. Although you can find smaller blades, they are not common. 18mm is best for cutting lots of curved or small patterns. If you are primarily dealing with paper or other thin material, then the 18mm is a great choice.
2. Who Has Access To Your Supplies?
Depending on who has access to your supplies will dictate the type of blade you should use. Certain rotary cutters are built with auto-retract features and blade locks to maximize safety.
If you work around children or pets getting a rotary cutter with a blade lock and auto-retract handle is probably the best.
We can often forget to close our blade after working, which is dangerous for those around us. These features are also great if you happen to drop your rotary blade while working. It will automatically close and won’t cut you or damage the blade on contact.
If you work alone or with professionals, then these features are not as important. You don’t need to worry about others getting hurt on your equipment.
If you can leave your blade out and it won’t be touched by others, then this is a good sign that certain safety features can be overlooked.
3. What Hand Do You Cut With?
Depending on the hand you cut with, you might have to pay special attention to your purchased rotary cutter. This is especially true for left-handed people. Most rotary cutters are build for right-handed people.
If you are left-handed, make sure always to make sure if the blade can be moved to the opposite side. If you are a left-handed person using a right-handed blade or vice-versa you will not be able to line up your edge with the ruler.
This will not only make it harder to cut a straight line, but it is also dangerous and can cause you to cut yourself.
1. Fiskars Crafters Rotary Cutter – Best For Thick Material Or Multiple Layers
What I Like
They also use a switch trigger rather than a push trigger to release the blade. This switch trigger is great for people with arthritis, those who cut for long period, or those who want a modern feel to their rotary cutters.
The 60mm blade makes it easy to cut through multiple layers of fabric in one go.
If you’re doing large jobs with multiple fabric layers, this tool will allow you to cut through multiple layers with a comfortable grip.
What I Dislike
The loop handle is also not the best fit for people with larger hands.
Who Should buy
I also highly recommend that people with arthritis use this rotary cutter since you don’t have to hold the trigger to keep the blade extended.
It uses a locking trigger combined with a release button that allows you to extend and release the blade safely.
What I Like
The Hercules rotary cutter has 5 speeds that you can adjust depending on the number of materials you are using or the fabric’s thickness. This is great if you cut a variety of different materials and layers.
Certain materials need faster speeds to prevent fraying. This rotary cutter will allow you to do that. This rotary cutter is also excellent for those with arthritis who don’t want to hold or press down on rotary cutters for long periods.
The Hercules is easy to maneuver with a rolling wheels on the base. It also uses a switch power button, eliminating the need to strain your hand by pressing down on a trigger like other models.
What I Dislike
This rotary cutter uses a large blade, much bigger than the blades used on traditional handheld rotary cutters. This makes it challenging and nearly impossible to cut precise patterns and sharp corners.
Another thing I didn’t like is the short wire. This short wire is disruptive, although you can solve it by using an extension cord.
Who Should buy
If you have arthritis or difficulty using your hands the Hercules rotary cutter is a great option. You can use this rotary cutter without gripping or squeezing anything. There is a switch to turn on and it can be easily pushed with the sliding pads.
3. Mundial Rotary Cutter- Best Budget Rotary Cutter
What I Like
I also like that it comes in both 45mm and 28mm options. This will allow you to cut thick fabrics as well as make smaller intricate patterns.
There is not much to this rotary cutter, but it does the job. It has a nice build; the bled retracts and extends smoothly, making for a seamless transition for cutting.
Unlike other straight handle rotary cutters, it has a rubber handle for added comfort.
What I Dislike
I also felt the handle was a bit small, I typically prefer a bit more girth. I feel it makes it easier to cut through multiple layers.
Who Should buy
The soft grip, as well as the two-blade options, make it great for many beginners or people who don’t use their rotary cutter often.
4. Fiskars Rotary Cutter And Ruler – Best Rotary Cutter And Ruler Combo
What I Like
The Fiskars Rotary Cutter and ruler combo is 6 x 24 inches, but it also comes in a 12 x 12 inches.
This is a great option if you have arthritis or need to do long jobs. You won’t have to grip or push down very hard with this rotary cutter, making it easy to use. Just push down and slide the rotary cutter for a straight cut every time.
Another major benefit is that it makes cutting straight lines easier than before. You don’t have to worry about holding your ruler down and possibly cutting your finders. Also, no need to worry whether you have a right-handed or left-handed rotary cutter.
What I Dislike
It is also a bit hard to cut multiple layers or thick fabrics. While this is only a problem for very thick materials or when reaching double-digit layers.
This rotary cutter is also on the expensive side when compared to other rotary cutters.
Who Should buy
This is also a great option for those with arthritis or have difficulty gripping objects. The ruler and rotary cutter combination make cutting easier and require little pressure or gripping.
5. Fiskars Rotary Cutter Kit – Best Rotary Cutter Kit
What I Like
The mat is a seal healing mat, which will help keep your blade sharper for longer.
The ruler and mat are large which is great for making long cuts.
Rotary cutter is high quality and blade slides in and out smoothly.
What I Dislike
While this bundle is reasonably priced, combining an inexpensive mat and ruler with a high-quality rotary cutter.
Who Should buy
Fiskars is a reputable brand you can be confident that they deliver durable and high-quality products.
Also great for those who don’t cut often or perform long jobs.
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