Sini TuuliaNov 17, 2023
Hey, #Quilting and other #Sewing people, preferably ones with experience with bad joints and hands:
Which is the best and/or least terrible cutting wheel and cutting mat to use? Is it less angering on the fingers, elbows and shoulder than using very good scissors to cut a lot of fabric? Do the cutting mats smell bad and do cats enjoy licking them if they're weird cats?
How easy it is to fumble and cut something you're not supposed to?
Show threadWillow (she/her)

@sinituulia I adore my Olfa mats and rotary cutters.

I have nerve damage in my hands and damage to my neck and shoulders. Rotary cutters have saved me.

Personally I do not notice a smell with the mats, and I'm usually sensitive to odd smells. No idea on the cat-front as mine are not allowed in my studio.

Definitely recommend starting slow, I don't personally have issues with mis-cuts but I tend to be precise over fast. Using rulers helps a LOT.

Nov 17, 2023 at 10:41pmWeb
Show threadMarsdenNov 18, 2023
@MsHearthWitch @sinituulia I have asked my #quilting wife and she describes the #Olfa ergonomic rotary cutter as a "game changer". Much safer to use and much easier on the hands and wrists.
Show threadNow at [email protected]Nov 18, 2023

@marsden @MsHearthWitch @sinituulia Got one for my mom two years ago. She quilts and sews garments, and looooves it.

The other key is to change the blades. Dull or chipped blades make rotary cutting miserable and require more pressure. Fresh, sharp blades make everything better. (Especially on a quality cutting mat).

Show threadSini TuuliaNov 18, 2023
@MsHearthWitch Thank you! Thoughtfully nodding. I have slight nerve damage here and there, including my brain, but also RSI and sometimes the scissors aggravate that.
I would be cutting garment pieces free-hand so no rulers for the most part!