Change Those Blades!
Click on the image above for the link to this video or click HERE.
Aren’t rotary cutters the best? What did we ever do without them? Even though they super convenient, many quilters struggle when it comes to caring for rotary cutters.
Some of the concerns we have as quilters are these: When was the last time I changed my blade? Where did I put the replacements? What if I can’t get it back together correctly? I have a video (linked here) with all the steps, tips and tricks I use when caring for rotary cutters. Some of these ideas are outlined here in this blog, too!
Let’s Get Organized!
My Organization System
I keep everything in one place, making it super easy to find everything. I use a hard plastic pencil box from 1990-something. Keeping everything together helps in many ways. 1. I know when I am running low on blades. 2. It is easy to change blades and clean the cutter with everything I need at my fingertips 3. I can write myself reminders about the cutters (when I last changed the blades, etc.).
Another way I stay organized is by marking the remaining number of new blades that are in the replacement pack right on the outside. This helps because sometimes those pesky blade want to stick together.
My Rotary Cutters
I have four rotary cutters that I use regularly. Two are the quick change ones (the turquoise and blue ones on the right) and two are the older with the washer and nut contraption for changing the blades. Although the quick change clip ones are great, you cannot clean them as well as you can clean the older ones. Other than that, I love both styles.
Cleaning Your Rotary Cutters
After I remove the old blade, I always make sure to clean the rotary cutter. You would be shocked at how much gunk gets trapped in there! I use a microfiber cloth to get the fabric dust and junk out of all the crevices. Sometimes I have to use a stiletto to get into all the nooks and crannies.
That Old Fashioned One!
This is the one that always seems to mess people up. Which way does the washer go on? What about the nut? I am sure this, at least in part, is why Olfa changed their design.
First, when I take off the nut and screw, I turn them over and place them on my mat. This makes it easy to remember how to assemble. You simply flip them over onto the rotary cutter when you are reassembling it.
What happens if you forget to do this? Well, I have that answer for you, too! Washer should be placed with the “wings” or sides facing away from the cutter. Here’s a picture to help:
See how it looks like a little hat with the brim up? Almost like a cowboy hat? That’s how you want it.
Questions? Please Ask!
I hope this helped you with the mystery of rotary cutters, changing the blades, and all of the other good stuff! Make sure to watch my video where I show changing them! And as alway, please ask any questions you may have. I am happy to help.
Happy Quilting!
Kris