The Best Rotary Cutter for All Your Fabric-Cutting Needs
Quick disclaimer: OLFA gave me a few complimentary items to review, but all opinions are my own. I only partner with brands that I sincerely support and I triple “P” promise to give you the cold hard facts. In this case, the facts really are cold and hard because they are about tungsten tool steel rotary cutter blades. But that’s beside the point….on to the review! We're on a mission to find the best rotary cutter.
If you are signed up for my newsletter, you know that I’ve been bragging about using the same rotary cutter since I started quilting 16 years ago. One rotary cutter = 16 years going strong. And do you know what that rotary cutter is?
Yep, you guessed it. An OLFA. THIS OLFA to be exact. I got it when I was 15 years old. I packed it in my bag and traveled with it to college. I took it with me when I moved like a nomad from crummy apartment to even crummier apartment post-college. I even had this little buddy with me moving into my first home with my husband.
I have a lot of feelings about my rotary cutter. To me, it is the best rotary cutter. If I were to write a song about it, it would end up sounding a lot like my fave song by Hall & Oates.
I have 3 OLFA products that I am reviewing today and after using them for a while, I am putting each one into a different category based on the type of quilter you are. You may fall into 1 or more of these categories, but for organization, here they are:
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- The Practical Quilter
- The Quilt Diva
- The Traveling Quilter
The Practical Quilter
Another tidbit of info you may not know about me (mostly because it’s a bit shameful) – I don’t change my rotary cutter blade as often as I should.
Guys, if I’m going to have a real moment of honesty here, I actually wait until it is ABSOLUTELY IMPOSSIBLE to cut fabric and I’m forced to roll over each slice multiple times. My cutting arm shoulder pretty much has to be cramping up before I deem it necessary to switch to a new blade.
Phew! I’m so happy I got that off my chest. Feeling much lighter now that you know this real-life side of me.
Why did I feel the need to share this with you? Because of item #1 on my list. Even the best rotary cutter is only as good as the sharpness of its blade. (That sounded kinda deep. Maybe I should turn it into a bumper sticker or something.)
45mm Endurance™ Rotary Blade
This blade stays sharp TWICE as long as a standard rotary cutter blade. So say goodbye to shoulder cramps!
- The tungsten tool steel blade with proprietary metal chemistry is designed to cut twice as long to extend time between blade changes, saving you time and money!
- The 45mm Endurance Blade fits any of the OLFA 45mm rotary cutters you already have.
- Price: $12.99
- Where to Buy: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, and fine quilt shops
The Quilt Diva
I like shiny things. Even though I try to put myself into the Practical Quilter category, I naturally slide into this one. If there are two options in front of me, every time I will pick the one with hot colors, sparkles, wild patterns – whatever is the loudest.
These types of things bring me joy, and if you’re a quilt diva too, this bright aqua rotary cutter will be your go-to tool as well.
Obviously, I can’t give up my 16-year-old cutter. I’m not a monster! But, I will definitely be cycling this bright lil buddy into my cutting rotation.
Splash 45mm Rotary Cutter
- Ummmm….it’s HOT BLUE. so...obvi you need it.
- It also comes in HOT PURPLE! Collect them all? ;)
- Good for cutting strips and multiple layers at once. Cuts fabric, paper, tarp, vinyl, upholstery and more.
- Price: $17.99
- Where to buy: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores and fine quilt shops
The Traveling Quilter
You know who you are. QuiltCon, Sewtopia, Glamp Stitchalot – you name it, you’re there. Quilt workshop in Austin? BAM, you’re there. Road trip to Denver?? Your bags are packed. You love meeting up with your sewist sistas and stitching up a storm all over the country.
This third item is designed specifically for you, my fellow traveler. It's self-healing surface will survive even the sharpest of blades on the best rotary cutter.
12” x 17” Folding Cutting Mat
- OLFA Folding Cutting Mat gives you a durable cutting surface to make your quilting and crafting projects effortless, wherever you are.
- Mat folds in half for convenient travel or storage, and is perfect for taking to classes or retreats.
- Good for protecting cutting surfaces and extending the life of your rotary blades on-the-go.
- Price: $49.99
- Where to buy: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores and fine quilt shops
If you plan to attend AQS QuiltWeek®, one of the largest quilting events in the world, make sure to stop by OLFA’s pop-up trialtent outside of the National Quilt Museum (4/27 - 4/28). There quilt goers can test out the new 45mm Endurance™ Rotary Blade while participating in a special project to benefit Quilts forKids, a non-profit organization whose mission is transforming fabrics into patchwork quilts for children in need.
Now before I let you go buy up all the fun notions we just talked about, I want to tell you about an exciting giveaway that’s coming up. I’ll remind you on social media, so don’t worry if you forget, but you may want to pencil this into your calendar because a FREE CRUISE in involved.
That’s right. FREE. CRUISE.
Here is a link to the sweepstakes, however it will not be updated with info until it starts on April 17, 2017.
Some fine print about the sweepstakes: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. Sweepstakes starts April 17, 2017 12 p.m. CST and ends at July 15, 2017 11:59:59 PM CT. Must be a legal resident of 50 US/DC and at least 18 years of age. For Official Rules, including how to enter, prize details and restrictions, visit www.olfa.com/quiltcruise. Prize includes transportation to cruise departure port. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: OLFA, NA distributed by World Kitchen, LLC, 9525 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Suite 300 Rosemont, IL 60018
GIVEAWAY!
Win a FREE Splash OLFA 45mm rotary cutter and a FREE 45mm Endurance™ Rotary Blade! All you have to do is leave a comment below. You can say anything! Your favorite notion, fave fabric, fave season, fave city...anything! I will announce a winner on Tuesday, March 28th.
Love the blue! Still using my first olfa cutter from 20+ years ago.
Oh wow, I really need to get some of those endurance blades. Also I should buy a pack of 5 or something so I don’t have to go so long without changing my blade. I just love slicing through my fabric with a fresh one!
You have a fantastic website!!
Awesome, I would love to try a Olfa cutter, I just have a cheap Fiskar one and sometimes the blade closes unexpectedly.
I also wait too long to change rotary blade. I enjoy quilting and don’t want to stop to change the blade! I want to try the rotating cutting mat too.
so cute and functional! Sign me up!
Love the rotating mat especially when doing half square triangles.
And now we can all say, yes, that was time well spent photoshopping John and Daryl👍
Can anything sound better than the combination of Olfa and endurance? I think not. Best rotary cutters ever!
I haven’t purple Splash cutter, which I love, and I’ve been wanting to try the endurance blades for a while. Going to have to grab me some!
They are really worth it. Last at least 2x longer than regular blade.
Love the Olfa cutters! Amd love the new blue one.
Thank u thank u thank Igor this wonderful website. New to quilting and this information will really help me get the right equipment that sounds like it will last did I say thank u
Love Olfa!
I have not tried Olga yet but have been eyeing them whenever I am at Joann’s.
Of course I meant Olfa and not what auto correct thought I meant, Olga. Although Olga’s does have good food.
Love Olga! I am still using my 25th anniversary Olga cutter! And I am just as bad about changing my blades as you 😜😘😉 I would love a chance to win some new equipment!!💚💚
I would love to try the endurance blade!
Yes! Yes! Yes!
Hope you’re enjoying Switzerland! I spent 6 weeks backpacking through it when I was 18 and it was pretty much the best summer ever. Love Olfa products- especially their mats!
I love my olfa rotary cutter – it’s the same as yours! 🙂
Ooh what a great giveaway, thanks! I definitely need to change my blade more often, in fact I know it needs changing now but I’m sure I’ll just end up waiting one more project! My favourite notion is probably a little mouse pin cushion my mum made in the early 80s though my unpicker comes a close second!
If it’s good enough for Hall and Oates, it’s good enough for me.
I love my Olfa, and I would really like a blue one!
I love Olga products. This would be fun to win!
Love my rotary cutter! After I injured my main arm, I had to learn to use it with my other hand, now I’m ambidextrous!
Olfa has the best rotary cutters!
I love quilting!
Hi Suzy! I really love Olfa rotary cutter since I started quilting not long ago and I’m still learning. I find out Olfa brand is the best even though I’m a beginner in the field. All your work is inspiring so thanks for sharing all your beautiful work!
Love that blue rotary cutter. I think I’ve had my trusty yellow OLFA rotary cutter since the early 90’s!!! 😬 Still going strong, but BLUE would be such a fun update!
I love your blog so much!! Keep posting! Your such an inspiration!
You’re *
The great thing about rotary cutters, they can slice your finger off, but, you keep going back ;D So addictive. Here is my secret, I change the blades all the time, but, I can’t bring myself to thrown them away. . . I am always thinking about some day when I may not have a blade as sharp as one I am taking off. #Hoarder
Yay, Olfa! Love mine 🙂
I am also terrible about changing my blades. I’ve been putting it off for weeks!
So glad I found suzie quilts! Amuses me daily and makes awesome quilts. Also love that my dog isn’t the only one that wants to sit on my patchwork all the time!
I have had my Olga cutter for over 30 years and still going strong. Love the Olga cutting matts too! I have them in all sizes.
I think I’ve had the same Olfa rotary cutter for almost a decade. I love them!
I just changed the blade on my rotary cutter today, and man did it need it! LOL But it’s not bright blue, and I think I need that one in my life! Ha! 💙
UGH MY DREAM is a rotary cutter that you don’t have to go over a cut multiple times!!
I would love a rotary cutter that last 16+ years! Thank you for the giveaway!
Yay what a fun giveaway!
Like the flame that burns the candle…
the candle feeds the flame, yeah, yeah! It really doesn’t get much better than that dynamic duo!
I don’t have any experience with OLFA products but it sounds like I’d enjoy using a rotary cutter much more if I used OLFA.
Are there any issues cutting fabric on the mat especially on the fold seam?
So kind, thank you! Ba safe and have a blast in Switzerland!!
I’m very guilty of rarely changing my rotary cutter blade! I just put a fresh one on & feel so fancy (downside: it barely touched my arm & I bled like crazy BUT: #NoBloodOnTheQuilt #winning).
I love all these products!
Ooooh I just love that aqua blue! I inherited a couple of yellow Olfa rotary cutters from my granny and should *probably* change the blades. Oopsies!
My blades might as well be 2x4s by the time I change them. Totally sympathize. Cool new blades!
I’ll love to try this new blade, because I am like you, wait for ever to change my blades.
I’ve been a Fiskers fan for a long time, but their rotary cutters don’t seem to perform well any more. I’m thinking i should give this Olfa a try!
Endurance blades sound like exactly what i need!
Love OLFA cutters!! Need a new blue one for sure.
I’m a slacker blade changer, too. Hope I get some new gadgets!
I used my first blade for an embarrassingly long time. I got smart and switched to Olfa last year and it’s been awesome! Love the new colors.
Wow…. I have a small Olfa rotary cuter and I love! And I have just started quilting…. so I hope I will have loads of good memories like you had! =)
I would like to try one!
I love your dog’s name! so cute!
Purple would be nice but I’m not choosy, but my name is also Suzy!
Short for Suzanne. Hope your having a great time in Switzerland. Is it spring there?
Mine is short for Suzanne too! 🙂
I love my Olfa rotary cutter of about 20 years…but it needs a buddy, something that is a workhorse and can share the cutting workload! And that blue will look great in my sewing room!
Love it!! I have the same Olfa rotary cutter I bought in high school too! It’s still going strong! Not the same blade though… I’ve had to change that. But I want to try out this endurance blade!
Love it!
I’m a big fat Newb in the sewing notions department but I’ve already been through 2 cutters. I’ll have to try this guy out!!
Yes, I need that!
I bought my original Olfa cutter way back in the 1980s (patent was still pending) Loved it!
Suzy, my girls showed me your site because many many yrs ago before kids, I quilted ALOT! I’ve taught them the basics and they love to quilt! My point is this, you have motivated me to finish 4 quilt tops/ blocks that I started 25 years ago! They are all put together now and ready to layer up and quilt! Thanks for your creativity and inspiring me!
You go, girl! I’m so happy to hear that you’ve been bitten once again by the quilting bug. And I’m sure you’ve noticed now too that quilting fabric has gotten reeeeeally exciting in the last few years. There are so many options!
Oh ya! It’s overwhelming! But a good overwhelming! I can’t wait to finish these old ones so I can get to the modern quilts…..I have several of your patterns I can’t wait to get to 💃💃💃💃
Love Olfa!! My Olfa cutter is about 20 years old and going strong… but to have a pretty blue one.. *sigh*
Love following your IG account. A new rotary cutter would be sweet!
I would love a new rotary cutter! What fun colors–thank you for the giveaway! p.s. I love your quilts!!!
I so need a new rotary cutter 😘
Your post was very entertaining to read! Sorry I couldn’t ditch my husband and fly with with you to Switzerland! I’ve always wanted to see the Matterhorn! Hope you’re having fun! Anywho- I’ve been wanting that Olfa rotary cutter…. must have all thing turquoise! Lol 😆
I got a sewing machine for Christmas and I just started to teach myself to sew! I bought a ton of fabric and I have so many ideas of what I can make. I can’t wait to see what I’m capable of!
I’m a brand new sewist and working on my very first quilt top! Would love to have the best rotary cutter out there to get off to the best start with ☺☺☺
I’m still using my really old cutter as well , and, like you I Put off changing blades. A Scrooge, I guess;).
I also wait until my arm is dying before I change my blade. Then I change it and always think… why did I wait so long!
I love Hall an Oats too!!! ❤️❤️❤️
This rotary cutter shape looks comfortable for those of us with developing arthritis. Loving the idea of less pain!!!!
Count me in and I didn’t realize at first there were replacement blades😂😂. I was a total novice and was gifted my first mat and cutter and used it for ages! PS I would love a new one to help me tackle a triangle quilt similar to the one you just finished
Love Olfa!
I need one of these! I feel like my rotary cutter is ALWAYS dull no matter how often I change the blade. Also: cut part of my finger with my rotary cutter making one of your minis so I obviously need this!
I currently have an intense craving for mashed potatoes and gravy. And I also use my blades until they’re pretty much as sharp as a spoon. 🙂
hahaha well you better get yourself some mashed taters and gravy!
I love your post! I have never seen anyone take time and review all these product individually and do it beautifully and awesomeness. Thanks for your opinion. I’ve only used one rotary cutter and just like you I use it until I can’t cut anything anymore. Cutting fabric is my least favorite thing! But if I had my rotary cutter sharp, it’s less pain 😜😁 I like making quilts and have read a few of your blog articles which are very helpful and fun! Thanks for your time! I prob won’t win this but I think whoever gets it will be so happy! And you are making someone happy and helping others! Love ❤️
I love olfa. So much so that I wrote about them in my senior project paper. (My paper and project were on quilting) I’ve been a quilter since that first quilt which I sadly had to donate.
That rotary cutter looks FAB!!
The blue color is fun! Have tons of fun in Switzerland!!!
Suzy
You are awesome! I love your travels and watching your wonderful talents!
Love Olfa cutters. I have a few but no blue or purple! The blade sounds great, too!
Okay, but for real, I cannot wait to know all the juicy details about your trip. And have you Skyped Scrappy yet?
I haven’t and I miss her like crazy!
Cutting is the most frustrating part of quilting for me – that and the actual quilting. Not sure if it’s my rotary cutter or technique but I need all the help I can get in doing it right.
Oh Wow!! I have had my eyes on this rotary cutter for the longest time!! I’d be over the moon excited to win this beauty….and would love to try these endurance blades.♡♡
Love my Olfa too! I’d love to try their new blade.
I love your Instagram. Cheers!
My cat recently broke my Olfa cutter by being a jerk that cats tend to be (swatting it off a pile of fabric where she shouldn’t have been to begin with). Maybe time for an upgrade!
Oh my gosh, I’ve had the same rotary since my first fibers class in college in ’01. Perhaps it’s time for a change. And def time for new blades, I think it’s been awhile.
I am in need of a new one! Fun give a way.
I concur with all your evaluations! They all work for me…and I do change my blade a tad before the shoulder cramps!
Love Olfa! The Best!
I’ve had my Olfa Cutter FOREVER!! They really are amazing.
Love love Olfa rotary cutters!
I think I could sew better with a cute rotary cutter in my supplies.
Oooh! I’m finally getting the hang of using a rotary cutter, and I do love things that are as cute as they are functional! 😀
Those blades sound fancy schmancy. I have a set of cheap knock off rotary blades, but they never seem to last long…
I didn’t know they came in colors! Love the choices!! Dull blades are never fun! If you don’t have to change them as often 🙌
I’m new to quilting and I’m loving it. I’m somewhere between a practical and diva. Shiny tools are nice. Love the blue rotary cutter
I need a rotary blade so. badly. I recently started sewing again after a 10 year hiatus (the last thing
I sewed then was a Regency-era dress for my high school graduation project my senior year. True story.)
My favorite line of this blog post “sewist sistas” totally going to use that☺ hope to win! Xo
I NEED that endurance blade!!! But I really want to see the purple Olfa handle now too! Gonna have to scope that out.
I would love to have one of the purple handles, fav color 💜💜. Really need to get the new blade, anything to help save $, never enough of that to go around on a fixed income.
Love the color!! And I too never change my blade🙈 so shameful!
Love my Olfa cutters but really want the blue one!
Love my Olfa cutters but really want the blue one.
Those endurance blades look amazing! And the blue…. 😍
I love my Olfa cutter and would really love to try the new blades!
My rotary cutter is 10 + years old as well. I have seen all new “diva” cutters but have not found one that I can’t live without yet. That bright blue one might be close though.
always love your design and the color you choose
Would love to win this. Have a mat, now just need the cutter!
I had to smile reading your first point! I thought it is only me doing this thing to not change blades that often. I can totally relate. I still have and always use my silver olfa which was a special edition when I purchased it at least 10 years ago? I really love to work with it. But the blue one is so lovely, would be awesome to win! Lol!
I am also a big fan of olfa. I have a smaller one for tiny pieces and I have a bigger one for the big works. They are both yellow and I love the blue one so count me in! Thanks for the chance to win!
I’m still using my original cutter from the late 1980’s but would love to win this pretty aqua one!
Awesome! Thanks for the review!
Thanks Suzy. This one would go well with the color we’re painting on the walls of my sewing space (today, as it happens!)
Safe home from your travels. : )
I love the Olfa ergonomic cutter. It’s so nice to work with a tool you can count on.
I used a rotary cutter for the first time last week and man, I had no idea what I was missing! I would love to have my own so I don’t end up borrowing my roommate’s one all the time 🙂
I’ve never been able to figure out why I wait so long to change my blades, even knowing when I do life will be so much better.
I’ve been wanting to try a Splash cutter. I’m so bad at changing my blades too!
I could definitely use another rotary cutter! the next new to me tool I want to get is a chenille cutter~!
I have both the purple and blue Splash cutters and have to switch between both because I can’t choose a favorite.
The splash is my go to rotary cutter!
Love that blue cutter!
Omg. I was reading and then that photo. I just could NOT stop laughing! Love how you added the OlFA cutters! Perfect placement. I can’t stop crying. 😂 Just distracted me for a good five minutes. Thank you! I was just browsing the internet for a new cutter/blade yesterday and looked at this combo! Happy to know I’m not the only one that doesnt switch out blades as often as I should.
I’ve recently revived my long dormant sewing skills in the quilting arena. All the fabulous new tools and techniques-AMAZING! I can’t help but wonder what my grandmothers (both classic hand quilters back in their day) would make of all this. Just makes me wanna get busy… Thanks for the continual inspiration.
So I legit just came to your sit to check out your shop area to see which rotary cutter you recommended and BAM! Here was this post right there waiting for me! So thank you – I’m off to purchase an Olfa! Also, your Photoshop skillz are on point. 🙂
I love the quilt podcast Sewciety. You and Stephanie seem to have such a good time when you are on together. How nice to have a good quilting friend.
Anyone who meets Stephanie is instantly her best friend. She has magical powers to make whomever she is talking with feel special and loved.
So happy 😃 my daughter introduced me to this website.
It’s interesting to try to go as long as possible without changing the cutter blade. When I do, it’s just amazing how easily I can cut fabric and I get mad at myself for not changing it sooner. Thanks for the chance to win.
I love my Olfa cutters and have them in different sizes. It would be great to have a second cutter 45mm cutter it could be designated for cutting paper and filled with blades discarded from the fabric cutter.
Thanks for the giveaway and for the description of the new blades. First I’ve heard of them!
Love my Olfa cutter. Really want that endurance blade as I too am a procrastinator on changing blades and longer lasting blades support my habit!
Oh, I really want to try the new Endurance blade!!! Next would be the Splash rotary cutter, Thank you so much!!
cork@pa.rr.com
Greetings from a used cutter/blades. Can’t seem to get rid of them, and they seem to dull so fast. I will try the new blades and the purple color sounds really interesting. Off to Joann’s tomorrow to look at them. I have not tried a Olfa cutter but purple……….hummmmm.
Maybe my stash of used blades will decrease if they last longer.
I just love your patterns! I’ve finished your Stars Hollow quilt top and just need to get a backing to finish it!
When I started quilting my mom gave me the rotary cutter she had been using for 20 years!! I always think of her when I use it.
I have had my OLFA rotary cutter forever. I guess I would call it vintage. I’m guilty of not changing blades too. But there is nothing like the first time you cut through fabric with a new blade. And you wonder why you waited so long. The Endurance blades sound great. Something for my wish list. But I really like the foldable cutting mat. So handy rather than trying to awkwardly fit my regular one into a tote bag.
I love the blue!!! And I’m terrible about changing my rotary cutter blades. Thanks for the chance to win!!
I have the folding cutting mat and love it!
Well who in the quilting world doesn’t need a new rotary cutter?!!!! Thanks for the opportunity!
I have all of these same goodies, but have never even heard of the endurance blades. Thanks for the tip!
I went looking for a rotary cutter that colour and was unable to,purchase one in town. I would ❤️ to win it.
Love Olfa rotary cutters. Not sure what we would do without them!
I’ve been wanting to give Olfa a go!
Still using my original rotary cutter. It is ancient.
Can’t wait to try the endurance blades, I am always looking for a better cut that lasts.
Olfa products are the best…..your posts are always so witty!
I’m like you, love the blue!! I have a pink one too that I love but I think I must get the blue one too.
Can’t wait to try the new blade…if I don’t win,I’ll use Joanns coupon!
Have several rotary cutters and mats but like my Olfa from 30 years ago best!! Always tempted to by the splash but haven’t yet! Love the color!
Hall & Oates! You crack me up!
Thank you so much for the info. Sounds like an awesome blade!! Good luck everyone in the giveaway!!!! angielovesgary2 atgmail dotcom
Could hardly believe how great my Olda cutter was when I switched from a beginning brand!
I am probably the only one in the quilting world who doesn’t own an Olga rotary cutter😥 and I’m convinced that I must get one (or win one 😏) I am also keen on trying the Endurance rotary blades but have not seen any where I live!!
OLFA…. silly autocorrect 🤣
Love Olfa products, and especially like blue rotary cutter.
Thank you for the chance to win, can do with a new Olfa rotary cutter, blade and mat. Love the blue.
Hi Suzy, when I was introduced to the rotary cutter I couldn’t believe how it made my life easier. I love to sew and find it relaxing.
I’m going to have to get the aqua Olfa rotary cutter !! I have aqua accents in my home, and it would fit right in, in any room !!
That blue is so fun and I can imagine the purple one is cool too.
love my Olfa cutter
I’ve never tried this brand. Of I’m new to quilting so I’d love to try it! 😊
Is it weird to ask the proper way to dispose of a blade? (I had the same issue in ad school with exacto knife blades.)
That is a great question, actually. Since mine gets so dull before I actually change it, I just throw it in the garbage. If you are a good little quilter, though, and change your blade regularly, you may want to tape some scrap fabric around it so it doesn’t slice open the trash bag or the trash collector’s hand. Very thoughtful of you, T-Bud. 🙂
Thanks for you tips. I love them all!
well… i totally already have that same rotary cutter, but ensurance blade whaaaa??? i must have this.
Favorite quilting tool is my new Gidget sewing table.
I love my Olfa products also, not only my rotary cutter and blades, but who cold do without the self-healing cutting mats (I have two!!). Love your blog also. And your quilts are to die for!! Keep it up, I love your posts!
I love Olfa! Happy is Blue.. very calm color! Thank you!
I love all things quilty! Especially when they make cutting fabric that much easier!
Olfa is my favorite Rotary cutter! I have every style and size they make along with the very first one I purchased 26 years ago!
My name’s Suzy, too, and, I’d love to win!
Definitely going to try the endurance blades because I’m one of those that doesn’t change my blade as often as I should!
I would appreciate a “friend” named Olfa!
Love the Hall & Oates & would love to try the Olfa cutter!
Love the descriptions of three different quilter personalities. I have all three!
I always love trying new things, especially rotary cutters. Can’t quilt without them. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
Olfa has been good to me so far!
Lol. Who doesn’t need this?
I am also not very good at changing my blade. I have had my Olfa cutter for 13 years as that is how long I have been quilting. Wouldn’t use any other brand.
I would love to try the Endurance blade!! Thanks for the chance to win one.
Would love to try the endurance blade! Thanks for the chance to win this giveaway.
Guess what? I’ve had the same rotary cutter since the late 80’s! My grandma bought it for me along with a mat and ruler. She was so happy at least one of her granddaughters showed an interest in quilting. She also bought me a yard of fabric. She passed away shortly thereafter and never saw any of my quilts, but whenever possible I put a piece of that fabric she bought me in my quilts. Thanks for the chance to win!
I don’t change blades very often either. Maybe we’ll get Carpal Tunnel from over doing ourselves.
Still using my original Olfa in classic yellow going on 20 years or so. Very happy to see that Hall and Oates are also fans. 🙂
huuuuuuge fans. Especially Daryl 😉
I would love to rock a new blue Olfa. And I’m headed to Paducah via Nashville. Thanks for the great tips for Music City!
such a cute olfa! =)
I’ve quilted since the mid 1980’s. Took a break for a few years due to life changes. I am starting to quilt again and feel like I’m home again!
Love olfa! Came from a time when we used a huge pair of shears .. a pencil and cardboard for our templates..you know the dark ages
I was sewing before rotary cutters and rulers but once I found out you didn’t have to make your own templates and cut everything out with scissors I have been absolutely hooked. I love all my Olfas. And the folding cutting mat is truly marvelous for packing anywhere. It fits almost in all my bags and I don’t worry about bending my mat anymore. Hadn’t seen the new Endurance blade before, I really, really hope it lives up to the hype. I hate changing my blades. Thanks.
Thank you for chance to win your Give-a-way!! I neeeed a new cutter…I left my cutter at Daughter’s house this summer LOL..she lives 8 hours away! Have an old cutter tho.. Would love to try the Blades too…sound Super!! I am awful at changing mine too…even turn them over & keep using!(Heard somewhere..if you flip the blade, they are sharper on the “new” edge????)
I’ve got 2 olfas and I write on each when I’ve changed the blade. Then I know which one to grab if I’m cutting through lots of layers of fabric.
Don’t tell anyone, but I buy a new cutter instead of changing the blade! It scares me! I need a new one.
hahaha oh no, Peggy! This Splash cutter is actually designed for easy blade changing.
So many things came to mind that I love; so, I think I will just say I love Quilting!
I have the same not-changing-blade habit (for my xactos too) and sometimes I don’t throw the old ones out in case they are sharper than the future dull blades I encounter? So bizarre! Like if there’s a rotary-blade-pacalypse? Stop! Just toss the old ones already. Smh.
I never knew Olfa had an endurance blade. I must have one to try.
Hmmm. Never thought to turn the blade over. I’ll try that next time – I go through way too many blades!
I’m currently working on a quilt using fabrics I purchased in Hawaii.
I love my Olfa! I started with another brand and switched to olfa soon after, the difference is amazing!
Color ambiance is important in my work space, so the aqua is a must-have.
I’m still using my original Olfa rotary cutter from 10+ years ago. And I think I’ve changed the blade a max of 5 times, so I’m not good at that part either. ha. Hope you’re having a blast in Switzerland!!
Pick me! Pick me! Would love to try one!
Not sure how old mine is, as it was my mother-in-laws. I have started using it and it is great. I did purchase a new blade for it.
I didn’t even know Olfa made super endurance blades – I’ll have to purchase! I hate changing blades too!
I’m sort of like you. Really procrastinate about changing my blade. Sure could use a new cutter and blades!
I love Olfa products. Good value and quality.
Would love to have a new rotary cutter, especially in the new color! My cutter and mat are used/abused a lot!
Me and my friend love all the fun little tools. Sometimes we buy them and don’t remember that we already own them. 😉
Love your site…check it maybe a bit too much but your style is fantastic…could absolutely use a new cutter and the blue is just so HAPPY!
I’m saying ANYTHING ☺
I love your humor!!
Oh my goodness- your story about your airbnb in Savannah! 😱 Scary stuff!!
Love rotary cutters though I honestly don’t have the OLFA brand- yet :). Hopefully I can try one soon! Thanks for the post.
The Splash is my favourite cutter-and I have a few. The endrance blades sound like they are just what we all need.
I love Olfa rotary cutters – and have been drooling over the Splash ever since it came out – so I would love to win this giveaway and add a pretty blue rotary cutter to my stash 🙂 Thanks for the chance!
I want the purple one!!
rotary cutters changed the quilting world!!
Rotary cutters changed the quilting world!
After reading about how long your Olfa has lasted, I want one!!! Love the colors too!!! Would love to try this out!!
I like to think I am a practical traveling diva! I think this lovely OLFA rotary cutter says just that!
I’ve never even heard of the endurance blade! Sounds AMAZING!
Would love to win this Olfa cutter. I cut all quilt pieces for both myself and my mom. This cutter would definitely come in handy!
lol Suzy. I am not much of a blade-changer either. 🙂
I think this is the best Rotary Cutter too! And I have the others. I don’t use them anymore once I tried my Olfa! I have the blue one! Would love to win another!
This was all very helpful information!! Thanks so much Suzy!! ❤
I have never used this brand….I’m all for making things last and easier….I’d like to give it a try
I’ve been using my Olfa rotary cutter for many, many years and love it! Would love to update to a new one.
LOVE my blue Olfa! Gotta get my hands on one of those tungsten blades though!! I am definitely a “practical” quilter!
Such a great giveaway!!! Thanks Suzy!
Thanks for the chance – I love my Olfa rotary cutter!
Absolutely love the blue!! I may or may not have stolen my Mom’s rotary cutter and never returned it…might be good to get one of my own!
This rotary cutter is so beautiful I would say to it: “you had me at hello”
Blue and yellow – such a happy fellow. I need those blades!
Thank you! My purple Splash is my favorite!
I think I may have to try those Olfa blades; I am guilty of waiting to change mine until I, like you, cannot cut anymore. Crazy, because when I change the blade, things go so much easier….
Thanks for introducing me to QuiltWeek – I’ll have to plan on going sometime soon!
Thank you for the rotary cutter info!!!! I learned about the new blades and different colors available:)
I still use my have my original OLFA cutter that I bought about 1985! I’D love the blue one!
I love your blog!
I’m like you and wait until I can’t stand it to change my rotary cutter blade. Investing in an Endurance blade is definitely in my future!
I use my blades for far to long as well. Really should try the Endurance Blade!
The endurance blade is the best ever. I have been using one for about a month and what a cutting difference. I plan on sticking with this blade. Would love to win !
Wonder when/if they will be available in Canada!!
I’m still using my first Olfa cutter too!
hmmm sounds familiar – must change my blade!!
I love Olfa products. Thank you for this awesome give away and all you do!
Thanks so much for the chance to win the cool rotary cutter!! The hot purple one would be perfect for me, since purple is my favorite color!! Thanks for your blog, too! I love looking at all the inspiration!!!
Can’t stop the feeling….
I keep hearing what a sweet rotary cutter the Splash is! It’s certainly pretty! Thanks for the giveaway.
I really like the blue. Great cutter
Have fun in Switzerland!
Olfa products are awesome!!
Easy peasy!
So sorry that I can’t enter this contest as I live in Canada
I cannot live without my Olfa Rotary Cutters. I have a small blade for cutting curves and small pieces to a 45mm to a 50mm. I am cutting so much fabric and quilting that I must have a sharp blade. Too frustrating to not be able to cut.
Hall & Oats with a rotary cutter is impressive!! My Olfa rotary cutter is 27 years old!!
You beat my OLFA record! 😉 Congrats!
Love the photo of Hall & Oates with the rotary cutters. My husband watches Live from Daryl’s House all the time. Best of the best. I can’t wait to show him.
You’ve convinced me that I need an Olfa cutter with an endurance blade!!!
Pick me! I was just shopping for a new rotary online yesterday ❤
Just getting into quilting and I’ve been looking at rotary cutters. I’m glad I came across your page. OLFA it is!
You have oceans of notions. I want one!
Thank you for your generosity. I always check reviews on items. Great review.
I have a super old Olfa that I’ve had since I was a teenager, too! I’d love to win and update to a newer model!
I love your site! Thanks-for the rotary cutter tip!
I hate changing blades , but have only cut myself once—so far.
I would love a new rotary cutter. I’m new at quilting.
Totes had those cutting arm cramps tonight. I don’t change my blade nearly enough. I’m sure my current blade has been on there for close to a year, plus it’s not an Olfa! Eeeeks!!
The very first rotary cutter I brought was an Olfa, I was at my first quilting show. I love it. Thank you for your reviews they do help when making a purchase.
I love my Olfa, the yellow one, almost 10 years in use,
now I would really like a blue one to!
thanks for the chance!
I think most quilters are guilty of waiting too long to change the blade in the rotary cutter. Just one more cut! Just one more cut! When I see a demonstration and the rotary cutter goes through the cloth like a warm knife through warm butter, I think it’s past time for me to change my rotary cutter blade and I think I’ll do it next time I go to the cutting table. Of course, next time I go to the cutting table I’m in hurry and it doesn’t happen. I’ve been told that I should change my blade every time I start a new quilt. I bet I’d be a much happier quilter, if I did. There was no such thing as a rotary cutter when I started to quilt. I love my rotary quilter.
I love my 60 Olaf cutter, but am finding a smaller one could be handy.
thanks for the give away.
I love Olfa products too! I have the folding cut mat and love it!
Great giveaway!!! Blue is a favourite colour lately….
I love Olfa products-I’ve been using the same cutter, mat, and rulers for 20+ years. My favorite is the rotating mat, however, the blue cutter & endurance blades could be my new favs!!
Thanks for the chance to win. I still have my original Olfa cutter too. I couldn’t resist the purple “Splash” when it came out. Thanks for the chance to win.
Dying to try the endurance blades! Great piece on rotary cutters
Love my Olfa cutter, but that mat is to die for. I would be pleased to death to win any one of the above items and appreciate your having the drawing.
Thanks for making this comment easy!
yay I want one!
I’m new to your site and enjoy your light tone. I, too, am resistant to changing blades – but when a do, its a matter for rejoicing.
I’m new to your site. Love star quilts! I keep my blades too long and would love extra sharp, long living blades!!!
OBVI I NEED one of the pretty ones!!! 🙂 I always say at work, if you gotta have office supplies, why not cute ones. I think this applies here as well!
TTFN
I would love to try the olfa cutter! I have the cheap Friskar and the blade would close while cutting. I went on line and they replace it free. Also bought some cheap titium blades at Amazon, sent them back, they did not cut at all. Bought some more expensive ones at Nancy’s Notions and they are great, last longer too!
I’ve had the same experience with some Amazon blades. I think when it comes to rotary cutter blades, name brand matters.
The rotary cutter is my all time favorite cutting tool for making quilts. I love Fiskars rotary cutter. This Rotary cutter makes cutting pieces so much faster and easier. If you do a lot of fabric cutting, you need this tool. Seriously thanks for all this awesomeness. I like your post.
Hi Suzy, I just stumbled onto your sight while searching for the best quilting supplies recommended by quilters. I am starting on my 1st quilt project and it has taken me over 50 years to work up the courage to start it. That is becouse it was started by my grandmother who died when I was only 7 years old. When I was given the quilt top it was already torn and tattered. It also has some stains on it, But time is running out, I have a very rare hereditary disease that causes retinal degeneration, so I am loosing my central vision. I’m still able to do most things ( except drive) that I’ve always done, I just have to use a lot of magnification. well, anyway it is time for me to finish what my grandmother so lovingly started and I want to let you know how very much I appreciate all the wonderful advice I’m getting from you and others like you. Thanks so very much,
I have three different rotary cutters. Fiskars, Olfa, and Martellies. I have to say the Martellie is my fav.
Oh my I will have to get one now! I love buying new quilting notions 🙂 Thanks for the excuse!
I’ve used Olfa rotary cutters for many years, but would like to try a Gingher cutter. And I plan to break over and buy one of those expensive Endurance blades one of these days. Unless I win one!
Olfa rotary cutters are definitely the best,
Luv, luv the Olfa brand. I probably have 6 due to inheriting my Moms when she passed. I have about 5 mats of all sizes. I really want to try that Endurance blade. That will be a good thing to try a 50% of coupon on!!
I am a fan of the Olfa cutters too. I haven’t tried the new blade yet, but will use my 50% off coupon to try it out. Love your Blog. Pat
I love my Olfa too!
Just starting out quilting, have made little projects to learn the craft and while doing my research for a good rotary cutter came across your blog. Thanks for the information and I will be popping back for more tips in the future.
Do you think a rotating cutting board is a good investment?
I think it’s a good investment once you have a quilt that requires it. Any time I sew half square triangles I use one.
I am looking to purchase my first ever rotary cutter after being absent from sewing for 20 years. I am loving the reviews for the OLFA cutter and have decided after reading this it is the one I should go for. I will hold out purchasing one to see if I win this now..fingers crossed xx
Like you, I’m very reluctant to change my blade. I can’t even justify it!
Love your “best” lists and appreciate all the research that goes into them.
Would love to try an OLFA cutter as I am going to attempt to finish the quilt my Grandmother started back in the 40’s and yes I’m that old !! LOL .Blocks are done need to assemble.
Hi. Is the one you’ve used for 16 years the one in the photo or the one you linked to? I see they’re not the same. Thanks.
You’re right. The blue Splash rotary cutter is a new design my OLFA. I’ve had this model for as long as I can remember. It has a great grip
I need a lesson on using a cutter. I keep buying new ones and after a few cuts the thing barely will cut. Am I holding the cutter wrong? It’s really aggravating to have to roll over and over a cut then break out the siccors
After a few cuts, you say? Yes, something sounds wrong. Is it possible you’re using bad quality blades?
I wish they made Beginner Quilting Starter Packs. It would be so much easier to walk into a store a buy EVERYTHING I need in a prepackaged package. I can see it being Sooooooo
convenient. Scissors, pins, measuring tape, cutting mat, pencil, needles, thread, thread ripper, a little plastic organizer and a beginners guide. A girl can dream can’t she 😊😊😊
That is a FABULOUS idea! I don’t have a brick and mortar store that you can walk into, but I can write a blog post about a Beginner Quilting Starter Pack. I do have a blog post on must-have quilting notions. It’s a pretty basic list that should be helpful – https://suzyquilts.com/must-have-quilting-tools/
Missouri Star has such a kit. From Couch to Quilt I think it is called. It comes with everything you need to get started including a charm pack, baby quilt pattern and a bag to send quilt back to them for quilting! I have purchased them for my granddaughters. Plus i bought one to take to the cabin so i know i have all the tools i need!
I’m ready to go from practical to glam with a Splash!
Can’t get your free bow and arrow pattern. Mail chimp is blocking me from putting in my email
If you send an email to suzy@suzyquilts.com with the email address you would like to add, I can do it manually and send you the free pattern. Does that sound ok?
Why has no one mentioned blade sharpeners? Do they work? How about using aluminum foil? I did indeed change from Fiskars to Olfa with much better results..
I own a blade sharpener, and it works OK. Definitely something I use before tossing a worn out blade, but I can’t ever seem to get it back to its original sharpness.
I quilt with a group of ladies several days a week. We make a lot of quilts for a charity, using anything from cotton to fleece to denim. So we use our rotary cutters a lot. I have a blade sharpener that we use to sharpen our blades. That has extended the life of our blades alot. We have been doing this for almost 3 years. I have only replaced blades in our rotary cutters once in all this time. I would highly recommend a blade sharpener.
Great blade!
I quilt with a group of ladies several days a week. We make a lot of quilts for a charity, using anything from cotton to fleece to denim. So we use our rotary cutters a lot. I have a blade sharpener that we use to sharpen our blades. That has extended the life of our blades alot. We have been doing this for almost 3 years. I have only replaced blades in our rotary cutters once in all this time. I would highly recommend a blade sharpener.
What cutter do you have? I have been leery to purchase one…
I’m positive that this will become my favorite tool because there’s nothing more annoying than a dull blade and needing to change it often.
Can really use an Endurance blade as the ones I’ve bought for my Gingher rotary cutter ALWAYS skip and I have to go back and re-cut over it- very annoying. If this new blade solves this, it will be fantastic!
Thank you Gram’ma for letting me exercise my feet on the treadle and precious scrap fabric. I now sleep under her scrappy quilt with happy dreams. She would love to try a rotary cutter.
I took my first Quilt Class the month after I retired from 40 years of Nursing. I knew I needed to stay busy and I always loved to sew & Crochet. Olfa was the suggested cutter from my first instructor and I still use it. I have tried other brands, but the feel and comfort in my hand that allowed for a clean cut always brought me back to Olfa. I will have to try the Indurance Blade. That is new to me. Finally, Suzy thank you for your “bright colors” and “feeling” out side the box. It has given me a new perspective on seeing different colors in my Quilts.
I have several brands. My favorite right now is my Quilters select. It takes a minute to get used to exposing the blade but it a little heavier and makes slicing a breeze. I like the ones that you squeeze the handle so that when you put it down the blade is closed. I have a Martelli but i just cant get the hang of it. And like others, i dont change the blade nearly enough! But when i do i have a pill bottle that is about the size of the 45 blades and i put blades and machine needle in there.
Hello. I’m so frustrated with my rotary blades. I have the same OLFA self closing cutter as you Suzy but I’m always having to replace the blade due to catches . I too must be doing something wrong. I’ve invested in the quick cut ruler and after cutting 7-8 strips, find there’s multiple catches in the cuts. Tired of spending so much on replacement blades, I recently purchased a pack of titanium blades… same problem. Now I’m wondering if my mat is the culprit as it’s very old (OLFA 24×36”) and may be dry. Anyhoo… I think I’ll invest in a blade sharpener before I throw them all away.
Thanks for all the tips.
Love Olfa cutters. My favourite too. I do love the aqua colour. Guess there’s a diva inside!