Top 5 Rotary Cutters Every Quilter Needs – Pros, Cons, & Safety Tips!

►► 5 Essential Tips for How to Create the Perfect Quilt Block Every Time - Free Workshop →

NOTE: I was not opening the blade properly - you just slide the cutter and it opens! Here's the demo:

I’m excited to share my top five favorite rotary cutters and what makes each one unique! I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each cutter, including some tips on safety and ease of use. Whether you're looking for something lightweight, ergonomic, or more durable for those longer cutting sessions, I’ve got you covered! Make sure to watch until the end so you can find the perfect rotary cutter for your needs. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your favorite cutter or any questions you might have!

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Key Details and Cutter Line-up
02:46 Quilters Select
05:53 Martelli
10:28 Olfa Classic
11:43 Missouri Star
15:01 Olfa Ergonomic and Final Tips

[joyfulandmerryquilting]

►► 5 Essential Tips for How to Create the Perfect Quilt Block Every Time - Free Workshop →

[belindaduke]

Mary, I was introduced to the Martelli cutter by a Martelli rep at a local quilt show. She showed me the proper way to, hold the cutter AND to engage the blade. You simply bump the blade area on the cutting board and roll it. The blade automatically engages. To cover the blade, simply use your middle finger to flip the red blade dial back. It’s a very simple one-handed operation. Also, I use both Cricut and Missouri Star blades in my cutter with no problem at all.

[sandydali]

I purchased the Martelli after trying a bunch of others. I love the Martelli. I can cut many pieces and my hand doesn’t get cramped or tired. I made a wall hanging that used only 2 1/2” squares over 400 and I cut them all in one sitting. I did notice when it was brand new it was very stiff and tight so I took it apart and put it back together and it's much better.

[DebbieNLeonard]

Thank you, Mary, for all the helpful information. The demonstration of the Quilter’s Select was especially appreciated. Your videos are informative, easy to understand and to the point. You respect the quilter’s time and I love that about you. Thank you. 🥰

[ginaolive]

Famore released one last year with ball bearings. Makes it run so much easier! Comparable pricing too. Makes my olfa cutter obsolete!!

[fondasarff]

Saw the tag line and thought "Who actually needs five cutters?". Then counted mine. Nevermind.

[nancy-katharynmcgraw]

I prefer the Olfa Ergonomic rotary cutter, 18mm, 45 mm, 60 mm. Thanks for a fair review!!!

[Westernwilson]

I have always used the ergonomic ones...like on the far right of your board. I like that it closes itself! Love the 60mm size.

[marinaabad]

Mary, your research is so in depth and your newsletters are so informative. So, this brings me to wooden clappers for pressing seams/blocks. What is the correct use of them and why that shape with a groove on the side? How long do you leave it on the block? Do you have to flip the clapper for the next use? Do you use them on wool pressing mats, or any surface is okay? Can you use it sideways? Will you get a better press if you pile on more than one clapper on the block? How many clappers should I have? What is the best length? I saw a clear acrylic clapper on Amazon, will it work? Is the type of wood important? Who invented clappers for pressing?

I have seen videos of people using clappers, but are using them different ways. So, what is the best practice for pressing and clapping?

[genawalter]

I love my Martelli cutter! As soon as I tried it, I haven't used anything else since! I have not used Martelli blades and have had no issues, and I have had mine for many years.

[cherylsmith]

I have the Quilter's Select and there's something about the weight that really feels good in my hand. The button makes it easy to open and close it. It's my all-time favorite!

[kathieheath]

I tried the LDH cutter and I really like it. I finally found one to replace my absolute favorite - my ancient Gingher cutter. Now that’s one I would love to see come back!

[Julieveg]

I have only ever used Olfa cutters so it was interesting to hear your views on some different brands.

[dtwirlgirl]

The Missouri Star rotary cutter is made by Famore. Your local quilt shop can order the Famore cutters. The ball bearings make pushing the blade through fabric a breeze. I like to let friends push any other rotary cutter (with the blade out) across a cutting mat and then try the Famore. They always have an amazed look on their faces! There is no drag on the blade because of the ball bearings. I have to believe that lack of resistance within the cutter will result in less fatigue.

[debbiebriggs]

Watching replay. Thank you for the information.

[florencemcowen]

I have 2 that I absolutely love. I love my Olfa (just the standard). I've had it for years and it's the one that I take everywhere and keep it at home. I'm so used to it!! Then recently, at a retreat, I was asked to try the Missouri Star rotary cutter. I fell in love with it. It cuts with so much ease. I was told the reason it cuts with ease was because it actually has ball bearings in it. So I had to buy me one. I do absolutely love it. That has become my main cutter when I cut fabric. I have tried all but the red one you have and I really don't like them. The QS one was a hit at my retreat. But I couldn't get used to closing it and ended up cutting myself (ever so slight). But for ME?? I'll stick with the Olfa Standard and the MS rotary cutters. That's just me. But thank you for explaining a few things with the other cutters!! And thank you for all that you do to make my life so much easier

[marysuedavis]

On my Martelli all I have to do is tap it on my mat and it opens. I do have to use the turn piece to close it

[carriesaindon]

I love my Martelli cutter. I use my Olfa cutter when I make bags to save my blades, but I might get a Quilter's Select cutter for my bags. The extra weight might be nice.

[BJ]

The Olfa ergonomic 45mm rotary cutter is my favorite of all cutters. I love it so much I own 3 of the yellow color: 2 each 45mm and 1of the 60mm, I also own 1 each in the blue and magenta color in the 45mm size. I also own the 45mm Olfa stick version, but I only use those to cut batting, etc.

[belindakinmon]

Just watched video, informative. I still love my Fiskars (about 10 years old) that you have to grip to get the blade out and when you release the blade is covered. It is similar to the trigger one they have now. I recently purchased one from MSQ with the ball bearings, it is nice. Only drawback seems like the opening and closing is backward. Just have to get used to it