How to Use a Rotary Cutter and Mat (2023)

If you're like most sewists, you want every cut you make to be pristine. No ragged edges, no frayed seams, and no misshapen lines. However, scissors may not always do the trick.

They slip in your hands, double-cut fabric, and oftentimes veer off the straight path no matter how boldly you mark it. In short, cutting fabric can be a nightmare.

It doesn't have to be, though.

Get a perfect edge every time you cut by learning How to Use a Rotary Cutter and Mat! A piece of cake to use and a terrific time-saver, a rotary cutter will change your life once added to your collection of sewing tools.

Don't be daunted by the rotary cutter's sharp edge. Despite its severe appearance, a rotary cutter is a breeze to use and is a safe tool when wielded correctly.

This simple tutorial will teach you all you need to know about how to use a rotary cutter and cutting mat. After reading this how-to guide, you'll be able to cut foot-long edges with divine precision and never have to stop to shake out your aching hand.

Though you won't throw out your scissors forever, you'll surely be tempted after learning this new technique! We have lots of additional information about rotary cutters and mats on this page as well, so be sure to scroll down.

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Materials Needed:

1. Rotary Cutter
2. Fabric
3. Ruler
4. Mat/cutting surface

Skill Level:Beginner
Project Type:Learn a Technique
Time to Complete:Under an hour
Sewn By:None

Looking to learn more about cutting fabric?There is no anxiety sewists dread more than the anxiety that comes when you are snipping away at yourprecious fabric. That's why we have this helpful guide.

>>> How to Cut Fabric: Tips and Tricks

Looking to learn more about cutting mats?
This page is all about caring for your sewing companion. As with all of your quilting tools, regular maintenance will ensure your cutting mat stays in tip-top condition and that you're getting the most for your hard-earnt dollar.

>>> Self-Healing Cutting Mat Care

Note: Always exercise caution when working with a rotary cutter. The blade is sharp and can cause harm if used incorrectly.

1. Make sure the blade of your rotary cutter is sharp. Replace if dull.
   
2. Lay your fabric down on the cutting mat, and smooth out any wrinkles. Line up the edge or fold your fabric so that it is in line with the grid on the mat. Every part of the fabric that you want to cut should be on the mat. There should be at least one inch of the mat exposed beneath your fabric's edge.
   Tip: Iron your fabric before cutting it so that it lays extra flat on the cutting mat.

3. Position the ruler over your fabric so that the ruler's edge lines up with where you want to make the cut. Make sure you hold the ruler firmly in place. For a straight, measured edge, line the ruler up with the grid markings on your mat.

4. Expose blade on your rotary cutter with your other hand, and position it against the ruler's edge, just below the bottom hem of the fabric. To cut through the fabric, maintain consistent, downwards pressure on the rotary cutter and push it forwards across the fabric, moving away from your body. Roll the fabric cutter until you pass the opposite end of the fabric.

5. Close your blade and remove excess fabric. If you find that any part of the fabric was not thoroughly cut, make another pass with your rotary cutter.

6. To make another cut, turn the mat and/or fabric, and repeat Steps 2–5.

1. Base your second cut off your first clean cut. For thistutorial, we will be cutting a 2.5-inch strip. Find the 2.5-inch mark on your ruler and line that up with your fabric.
   Tip:It doesn't matter if the fabric is or is not lined up on the mat because you are using the ruler as measurement, but make sure your fold is still lined up. If it isn't, re-square the edge of your fabric before cutting.

2. Expose your blade and make one clean cut all the way to end again. Repeat to cut as many strips as you need.

3. To make squares you repeat the process making sure your ruler lines up with the cut you already made as well as the other side. Repeat the process until you have as many squares as you need.

About the Author:

This tutorial was presented by our friendCarolina Moore atAlways Expect Moore. Visit her blog along with her designer profile to find more of her projects on AllFreeSewing here: Carolina Moore from Always Expect Moore

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What is your favorite fabric cutting tool?
Let us know in the comment section!