Rotary Cutting Equipment
The basic equipment needed for rotary cutting is a rotary cutter, a special self-healing mat designed for use with rotary cutters, and a heavy plastic ruler.
Rotary cutters come in several sizes. The 45mm size rotary cutters are commonly used for most rotary cutting, however the smaller size is handy for some cutting and trimming.
The self-healing mats for rotary cutting are available in many sizes. Quilters should try to purchase the largest size mat that you can afford. The recommended size for most quilting work is 18" x 24". Cutting mats marked in imperial measurements (inches) are necessary for quilting as most patterns are imperial. Before using a new mat it is a good idea to check the grid lines with a ruler to ensure that the markings are true before relying on the grid for cutting.
There are many rulers and templates available to the quilter for use with rotary cutters. The ruler measuring 6" by 24" is one of the most useful, being large enough to handle the larger cutting tasks while also being able to be used for the smaller tasks. Having said that, a quilter will soon come to realize that a smaller ruler is extremely useful for some of the small jobs (say a 6" x 6" square).
Rulers used for rotary cutting should be marked with a 1" grid with markings representing 1/8", 1/4", and 1/2" of an inch. In addition to the rulers, other measuring tools for rotary cutting such as diamonds and wedges, all marked in various degree measurements become quite handy tools for cutting as you progress and become more adventurous with the projects you undertake.
Safe Rotary Cutting
As rotary cutters are extremely sharp, extreme caution should be used when rotary cutting.
Use the rotary cutter only with a specially designed rotary cutter mat as using any other surface can damage the cutter blade and permanently damage the surface you are cutting on.
Every time you put the rotary cutter down always close the blade or make sure that the blade guard is engaged.
A build up of lint and fluff under the blade can prevent it from rotating smoothly so ensure that you clean the cutter regularly.
As soon as the cutter becomes dull, replace it.