18 Best Rotary Cutter For Fabric & Quilting (Recommended)

The main part of accomplishing precision and elegance in quilt-making is using the right tool for the job.

A rotary cutter, for instance, is made of a handle and a wheeled blade, just like a pizza cutter. It is easier to use a rotary cutter on fabric instead of scissors because your hand does not get in the way of your job and does not nudge the cloth. Also, it is easier to cut in a straight line with this tool than it is with others.

Using a rotary cutter helps you create sharp, clean edges, speeds up the creation process and saves you time and energy. But with so many rotary cutters on the market, picking the right one is hard, especially if you are purchasing a rotary cutter for the first time. However, do not worry because I am here to help.

Let’s review some of the best-selling products for 2021 and pick the best rotary cutter for you together.

When to Use Rotary Cutter?

Rotary cutters represent tools mainly used by quilters to cut fabric. A rotary cutter is made of a handle with a sharp blade that spins (rotates). That is why it is called ‘rotary cutter’. It can cut through multiple layers of fabric, depending on the size of the blade. 60mm blades are best for cutting heavier materials.

You can use a rotary cutter as a substance for scissors because it provides clean and precise cuts, unlike scissors. Also, cutting with a rotary cutter is easier for both beginners and experts, especially beginners.

If you deal with arthritis, it is smart to buy a rotary cutter instead of scissors because it is comfortable to use. If you are a quilter, you will need rotary cutters for specially designed templates and rulers created of around 1/8’’ thick clear or color-tinted plastic. As you can see, there is much you can do with a cutter.

Where to Buy Rotary Cutter?

Looking for the best rotary cutter that will help you make the most out of your project? If yes, you have come to the right place. I have two tips for you. The first is, check my comparison chart and pick the one rotary cutter that you like the most. The second is, open your browser and start your personal research.

Just type something like “rotary cutter near me” and explore your options. Refer to this map for help in order to find local stores. Write down their address, contact number and prices and visit when you have time. However, I honestly recommend online shopping because you have more options to choose from.

What is the Best Rotary Cutter?

In order to help you choose what is best for you, I have highlighted 10 best products and their features. However, make sure to check their pros and cons and overall performance before you make a purchase.

• Best Overall: Olfa 45mm Rotary Cutter
  “Ergonomic comfort-grip handle, suitable for both left-handed and right-handed users, durable, sharp.”
• Runner Up: Fiskars 01-005875 60mm Rotary Cutter
  “Improved durability, suitable for both left-handed and right-handed users, ideal for thicker materials.”
• Best Small: OLFA 9551 RTY-1/G 28mm Rotary Cutter
  “Affordable, perfect for paper and fabric, durable handle, suitable for left-handed and right-handed.”
• Best For Arthritis: Fiskars Classic 45mm Rotary Cutter
  “Lifetime warranty, a sliding button for additional safety, curved, loop-handle design, affordable.”
• Best Leather: Hercules HRK-100 Electric Rotary Cutter
  “Three-speed servo motor, LED work light, durable jam-free design, built-in sharpening stone, electric.”
• Best Budget: WA Portman 45mm Rotary Fabric Cutter
  “Five replacement rotary blades included, durable, user-friendly, safety system, perfect for beginners.”
• Best For Larger Projects: Martelli Ergo 2000 60mm Rotary Cutter
  “Easy blade replacement, perfect for right-handed users, ergonomically designed, durable, super sharp.”
• The Most Comfortable: Premier Blades 45mm Rotary Cutter
  “Six replacement blades included, ergonomic soft handle, dual safety technology, cheap, super sharp.”
• Best For Vinyl: Gingher 45mm Rotary Cutter
  “Ergonomically sculpted, thumb-activated lock, affordable, cuts paper, fabric, felt and of course, vinyl.”
• Best For Cardboard: OLFA RTY-2/G Rotary Cutter
  “ Ideal for both left-handed and right-handed users, user-friendly, cuts with very little effort, affordable.”
• Best For Fabric: OLFA RTY-2/C 45mm Splash Rotary Cutter
  “Blade cover for safety included, durable, integrated grooves at the head, contoured handle, sharp.”
• Best For Paper: Fiskars 01-005828 45mm Titanium Rotary Cutter
  “Ergonomically sculpted handle, full lifetime warranty, cuts paper, fabric, felt, vinyl and much more.”

Best Rotary Cutter 2021: First-Rate Rotary Cutters Compared 

When the market is overflown with options, then selecting the best rotary cutter becomes very hard.

Therefore, I took the responsibility and compared some of the best-selling rotary cutters available in the market. Make sure to check their main features and read their detailed reviews before your final order.

18 Best Rotary Cutter Reviews 2021 (Fabric and Quilting)

Certain factors need to be considered before choosing a rotary cutter. Some of them include durability, size, weight, safety features, and design. In fact, the design is one of the main features you need to pay attention to. Now, let’s review the top-rated rotary cutters for this year and pick the right one for you.

Olfa 45mm Deluxe Ergonomic Rotary Cutter

(Best Overall)

This model of Olfa 45mm rotary cutter is a perfect combination of power, comfort, and protection. It has a rubber handle which gives a better grip while working and eliminates hand stress.
The squeeze trigger enables the blade to pull back for protection. The cutter can deal with up to 6 layers of thin materials. Another good thing about this rotary cutter is a fast blade change feature which can help you to save precious time while working.

This ergonomic rotary cutter of Olfa contains multiple useful features that can help you to do your job faster and more precisely. Highlighted features include:

• Ergonomic grip handle to minimize wrist turns
• Usable for medium and heavy-duty projects
• Cutter supports 45mm rotary replacement blades and blade edges
• Dual-action safety lock that allows blade lock
• Suitable for both left and right-handed users

Fiskars 01-005875 60mm Rotary Cutter

(Runner Up)

Fiskars 60mm rotary cutter is your best choice if you are looking for precise cutter through thick materials and multiple layers of fabric. This model comes with an updated handle and blade which make your job easier.

The blade on this model of the rotary cutter is made from titanium which makes it three times harder than models with steel cutters as well as more durable and sharper.

When it comes to stability, Fiskars curved shape improve your hand control and gives you a perfect fit for your hand no matter if you are left or right-handed user.

This model of Fiskars includes a sliding button that extends the blade while using it. Another good thing is that rotary blade can be placed into either side of the rotary cutter which providing optimal blade visibility for all users.

Fiskars Classic 45mm Comfort Loop Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Arthritis)

You are a beginner or professional quilter and you need something precise and comfort to use? Here is the Fiskars 45mm comfort loop rotary cutter.

This model comes curve-shaped with a loop handle which gives you control, comfort and feels natural in your hand. It’s aided with 45mm steel blade that gives long-lasting sharpness.

Fiskars classic 45mm is ideal for cutting numerous layers of vinyl, fabric, and paper. This versatile design gives you excellent visibility whether you're left-handed or right-handed thanks to both-side blade assembly feature.

Another good feature of this Fiskars model is a sliding button that extends the blade during work, lock it and retract it which makes him safer for storage.

WA Portman 45mm Rotary Fabric Cutter

WA Portman 45mm rotary cutter is a nice piece of joy you can have in your inventory. This cutter has an ergonomic handle which makes your long-time working even easier and enjoyable.

Also provides extra protection thanks to a dual-action safety lock. Blade protector is also able to be placed on either side without difficulties.

It has very sharp stainless steel blade that can help you to cut your fabrics very smoothly and precisely. This model of WA Portman is made basically for right-handed users which appears to be difficult to use if you are a left-handed user.

When it comes to value, this rotary cutter is worth to be bought. It has 5 extra blades for replacement. And the replacement process is super easy even for beginners.

Hercules HRK-100 5-Speed Electric Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Leather)

The Hercules HRK-100 is a lightweight, durable and very powerful rotary cutting machine that efficiently cuts carpet, cloth, leather, natural and synthetic fabrics, etc.

It’s suitable for cutting a single layer of the most delicate fabrics, up to 1” thick pile of vinyl, denim, and leather. The HRK-100 model has a built-in sharpening stone that gives you best lifespan and cutting performance from your genuine blade.

The powerful 110-volt 3-speed servo motor is able to be adjusted to 600, 900 and 1200 RMPs which gives you the speed and precise while cutting any fabric.

Another useful feature that provides this cutter is LED work light. It helps you to see guidelines clearly and cut accurately, so be sure that you will never miss a cut again.

OLFA RTY-2/C 45mm Splash Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Fabric)

OLFA rotary cutters are known as one of the most popular among users. Another good model is good for your inventory. That is OLFA RTY-2/C rotary cutter which is a useful piece of machinery.

It’s easy to carry and contain very sharp blade that helps you to cut your materials very smooth and easy. Safety is ensured thanks to grooves integrated on the head and avoid finger slippage. The blade cover is added to complete safety of this product.

Working with this model of OLFA rotary cutter is so easy and fun because good handling while working helps you to avoid any hand problems during long-time work including hand fatigue.

Another useful feature good to know about this product is the price. This is one of the best cutters for fabrics that you can have it at your home for a really low price.

Martelli Ergo 2000 60mm Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Larger Projects)

Martelli Ergo 2000 is ergonomically designed 60mm rotary cutter and provides maximum comfort. It is a right-handed cutter that features a smooth grip and good precision.
This rotary cutter from Martelli has some good additional features:

• Spring-loaded guard
• Precision engineering
• Contoured grip

This is perfect for users who deal with tendonitis, arthritis or hand fatigue because has a perfect grip and your hand fits perfectly while working no matter which is your main hand.

Allstar As-100k Electric Rotary Mini Fabric Cutter

(Best Electric Rotary Cutter)

If you are a fan of portable mini rotary cutters, Allstar as-100k is a nice pick for you. This is a heavy-duty rotary mini cutter, aided with powerful electric 110-volt motor which helps you to cut up to eight layers of fabric at a time.

As-100k is a perfect replacement for your scissors which can free your hands from soreness and speed up your production. With this mini cutter, you can cut various types of materials without any distortion or damage.

This model is nice and safe for work because provides a comfortable grip for your hand and also has an adjustable blade guard that helps you to avoid injuries while working.

Sewing Laser Line Cut Quilt Fabric Straight with Rotary Cutter Without Marking Fabric

(Best Rotary Cutter for Sewing)

This laser is the toll that every sewer worth to have it at his inventory. It helps you to make precisely measured cuts without losing time while marking your material. It’s easy to use, just turn on the laser by pressing the button, point it on the material and you are ready to go. Cutting has never been easier.

Kai RS-45 45mm Rotary Cutter

(Best for Beginners)

Kai RS-45 is a great rotary cutter even for beginners. It’s comfortable to handle and have a very soft grip that helps you to avoid hand fatigue during long-time working.

This one is made with a universal grip suitable for left and right-handed users. Blade changing system is one of the easiest on the market. And also this model of Kai supports most brands of the rotary blades.

The Kai RS-45 rotary cutter most compatible blades list includes the 45mm straight blade, the 45mm pinking blade, and the 45mm wave blade.

Fiskars 01-005828 45mm Titanium Comfort Stick Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Paper)

Fiskars Titanium Comfort Stick Rotary Cutter is equipped with 45mm premium steel blade with a titanium coating which made him three times harder and durable than other steel models.

Also, have ergonomically designed handle to fit perfectly on your hand and you feel more comfortable than other rotary cutters.

Design on this model is so symmetrical that provides comfortable use and control for left and right-handed users. It also contains a sliding button that extends a blade guard and improves safety when not in use.

This model uses a very sharp blade which is comfortable for cutting multiple layers of vinyl, paper, fabric, and other materials. Another good thing is that if you buy it, you get a lifetime warranty.

OLFA 9551 RTY-1/G 28mm Straight Handle Rotary Cutter

(One of the Best Small Rotary Cutters)

Sometimes big rotary cutters are not a good fit when you work with small shapes or cut small corners. For that reason, I present you the OLFA 9551 TRY-1/G 28mm rotary cutter. This model will help you to do small cuts extremely easy and precisely.

OLFA has plenty of features including blade safety cover and very good handle that can help you to avoid hand fatigue while long hours work no matter if you are left or right-hand user.

Blade of this OLFA model is super sharp, so you need to pay attention to where you leave it when the blade is exposed. The best and secure way is to put your cutter into the container while not using it.

Fiskars 197980-1001 28mm Stick Rotary Cutter

Fiskars 28mm stick rotary cutter is another brilliant tool when you work with a small piece of material and you need to make small curved and precise cuts.

Blade help aided this model with high-grade precision because is made from premium steel which helps to stay sharper longer than other rotary blades. Also is able to cut precisely cut multiple layers of fabric and thick quilting materials.

This tool is very easy for maintenance and blade can be changed very easily. It is also lightweight and portable and can be placed or cared everywhere without any problems.

One of the most important features of this Fiskars model is safety. It contains a sliding button that extends the blade guard when the cutter is not in use.

Arteza 45 mm Quilting Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Quilting)

Arteza 45mm rotary cutter will make your quilting faster, enjoyable and relaxed. It has ergonomically designed handle with soft-grip comfort integrated. Also is compatible for both left or right-hand users which makes cutting tasks easy and smooth.

This rotary cutter can be disassembled so easily in case you need to change his tungsten steel blades. A blade guard is aided with a safety locking feature which improves the protection of this product.

Premier Blades 45mm Rotary Cutter Tool

(The Most Comfortable Rotary Cutter)

Premier Blades 45mm rotary cutter is a useful tool that can help you to make precise cuts through different materials. It is equipped with 45mm premium titanium coated steel blade.

This cutter provides a comfortable-grip handle for either right or left-handed users. Except that is suitable for executing straight cuts, corners, and curves without any difficulties.

Premier Blades 45mm is safe and easy to work with. As other good cutters, this one also features dual safety technology. It has a push-button lock for easy closing, opening, and storage of this product.

OLFA RTY-2/G Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Cardboard)

OLFA RTY-2/G rotary cutter is easy to use ergonomic tool which has a good handle and is able to reduce hand fatigue.

Cutting with this type of tool is very easy no matter if you are left or right-handed user. With this tool, you can make nice and smooth shapes or edges with a little bit of effort.

The cutter is rolling sharp rolling razor blade that is used to cut fabrics, paper, cardboard, felt, wool, leather and much more. Besides this is a perfect tool for quilting, sewing or other craft projects.

CLOVER 7500 45mm Rotary Cutter

CLOVER 7500 rotary cutter is an ergonomic tool, suitable for use for right or left-handed individuals. It has a sharp blade that can cut thin and mid-weight fabrics so easily.

This functional design has very good grip in your hand and fits great while working with it. Also is able to cut multiple light peace of fabrics without a problem.

Gingher 45mm Rotary Cutter

(Best Rotary Cutter for Vinyl)

Gingher 45mm rotary cutter has ergonomically sculpted unique design that can cut multiple layers of paper, fabric, and vinyl. It provides maximal blade visibility for left and right-handed users.

Gingher 45mm blade is made from stainless steel and is highly precise while cutting. It retracts automatically when you release the handle for safety.

When we are talking about safety, a thumb-activated lock is made to secure the rotary blade in either position during extended use and safety during storage.

The cutter on this model comes with 4 blades that give you a smooth action for consistent and efficient cutting without any risk of misshaping.

How to Choose a Rotary Cutter?

Which rotary cutter is right for you depends on your projects, what type of handle you want and safety features. Let’s review some of the key factors you need to consider when buying the best rotary cutter.

Size

If this is your first time buying a rotary cutter, you need to know that they come in many sizes. However, the most common sizes 60mm, 45mm, 28mm, and 18mm. As you suppose, larger blades can faster than smaller ones. They can cut through several layers of fabric with great ease quickly, unlike smaller blades.

Smaller blades serve for intricate cuts and curves. If you want to make straight, long cuts, you will need to use a 60mm. Among users, 45mm is the most popular and most effective size. 45mm can be used for cutting shapes, strips or quilting while 18mm and 28mm blades serve for tight corners and intricate cuts.

Handle

If you plan to use your new toy often than comfort should be your first priority. Buy a rotary cutter with an ergonomic handle. Make sure that your new rotary cutter is comfortable to hold. If you have arthritis or some other wrist and hand issue, choose a rotary cutter which is created considering these problems.

You can choose between curved handles, straight handles, ergonomic handles and padded handles. It is a matter of personal preference which rotary cutter you choose. Next, pay attention to safety features.

Safety Features

Rotary blades are super sharp. So, it is normal to injure yourself every now and then. However, choosing a rotary cutter with a safety feature will save you a lot of stress, especially if you have kids.

I suggest that you purchase a modern rotary cutter with a safety latch that can be manually or automatically retracted.

Material

Usually, rotary cutters are made of titanium or steel. Steel ones are less durable and cost less. Titanium blades, on the other hand, last longer but cost more. They are considered as most durable and efficient.

What Size Rotary Cutter do I need?

The size you need depends on your project. The sizes start from 18mm to 60mm in diameter. Usually, if you want to cut multiple layers of fabric, you need a 60mm blade. The bigger blades save time, however, people usually choose 45mm blades because they perform better for complex shapes and tight corners.

Olfa vs Fiskars Rotary Cutter: Who Makes the Best Rotary Cutter?

Olfa and Fiskars represent two of the most popular brands on the market. They both offer high-quality products and people usually experiment with both brands in order to determine which one is better or deserves their lifetime trust, however, they always come to the same conclusion: both brands are great.

Most customers choose the 45mm rotary cutter by Fiskars and claim that they like the way it fits in their hand. They also claim that Fiskars rotary cutters are perfect for people with arthritis and other hand and wrist issues. However, they also claim that Olfa has some amazing rotary cutters that cut amazingly too.

Which one you choose is a matter of preference but no matter the brand, customers recommend that you never cut 4 layers of cotton at a time or a single layer of fleece. This way, the blades will last longer and accuracy will be better. Do you have any experience with these brands? What are your thoughts?

Rotary Cutter vs Scissors

Scissors have 2 handles of the same size. They are versatile, meaning you can cut out garments, sewing patterns, trim extra fabric from seam allowances, cut loose threads and easily cut curves.

Rotary cutters, on the other hand, provide effortless and super fast cutting. They are perfect for straight or curved lines.

You can also cut intricate and precise cuts with a rotary cutter. It can be used in different practices such as quilting, crafting, sewing and so on. One of the biggest benefits of using a rotary cutter is that you can cut multiple layers of fabric at a time, unlike scissors. Also, rotary cutters work better for arthritic hands.

No matter if you are searching for a rotary cutter for crochet edging or a rotary cutter for patchwork, my reviews above have something for everyone. Make sure to check their pros & cons before you purchase.

Rotary Cutter vs Fabric Scissors

Fabric scissors are useful for simpler tasks. However, if you want to cut straight lines, you need a quality rotary cutter. It is much easier to cut through multiple layers of fabric with a rotary cutter than it is with scissors. Also, newbies prefer rotary cutters over scissors while advanced users do not mind using both.

Rotary Cutter vs Electric Scissors

Rotary cutters give you more control over what you are cutting than electric scissors. Also, electric tools take practice and dexterity in order to get a straight line. Yes, you can learn how to do it if you practice a lot, but why put that much effort into something complicated when you can choose something simpler?

Rotary Cutter vs Exacto Knife

After hours of research, I have come to the conclusion that using a rotary cutter is better than using the Exacto knife. First of all, cutter rolls over the fabric, while the Exacto knife would be pulling through the fabric. Also, the Exacto knife does not provide a good clean cut. And it is not as safe as rotary cutters are.

Also, a rotary cutter can cut through multiple layers of fabric (4 at least) without a problem. Blades get dull. However, you can easily change them and move along with your cutting journey. Also, it is useful to know that blades need to be replaced frequently. It is suggested that you change them after every use.

Rotary Cutter 45mm vs. 60mm

I have done my research on both 45mm & 60mm blades and I have come to the conclusion that 45mm blades cost less. 60mm cost more because they can cut multiple layers of fabric with greater ease while 45mm can cut through a few layers. Also, 60mm blades are harder to handle than 45mm rotary cutters.

If you have money to spend, I would suggest that you purchase both sizes and experiment. You will use the 45mm for squaring, trimming and cutting. And you can use the 60mm for cutting long, straight lines. Also, do not forget to change your blades often (buy many replacement blades)or sharpen them at least.

Can Rotary Cutter Blades be Sharpened?

Yes, of course, that rotary blades can be sharpened. If your tool needs a lot of strength and effort to cut through fabric, it is possible that it is dull (needs sharpening). However, it is also possible that your fabric is too thick for this type of cutting tool. If it is dull, you can either replace it or order a blade sharpener.

How to Sharpen Rotary Cutter Blades?

If you decided to sharpen your blade instead of changing it, first, let’s look at the pros & cons of doing it.

How Many Rotations Are Required to Sharpen Your Rotary Cutter Blade?

You will notice that your sharpener has two sides. One side is fine and the other is rough. You can easily determine which side is which with your fingers. Once you do, follow these easy steps on how to use it.

Step 1: First, you need to separate the handles by spinning anti-clockwise. In simpler words, to the left.

Step 2: Put blade on the handle with the screw and tighten handle around blade by spinning clockwise.

Step 3: Spin the cutter blade 20 times on the rough side of your sharpener. Turn the blade upside down and repeat the same thing. Make sure that you apply pressure to push the blade against the sandpaper edge when spinning. Spin the blade on the finer side. Turn it upside down and repeat the same process.

Step 4: When done, keep the blade on the handle and use the side with the screw, so the blade cannot slide off easily. Keep your cutter on top sandwiching the newly sharpened blade between itself and the sharpener handle. Flip it upside down, so that the cutter is on the bottom and remove the sharpener.

Step 5: Secure the sharpened blade onto your cutter. If your blade is super dull or skips cuts (even after going through 20 rotations on both sides of the blade), it is suggested that you repeat the same process.

How Often Should You Change Your Rotary Blade?

Users recommend that you change the blade on your rotary cutter often. Ideally, you need to change it before you begin a new project. Or you can follow the steps I mentioned above and sharpen it instead.

Are Titanium Rotary Cutter Blades Better?

Yes, titanium blades last longer than other blades. However, they also cost more. Customers consider titanium blade is durable and suitable for long use but other materials can cut through fabrics precisely too. For instance, such as stainless steel and other common materials used to make blades out there.

Can You Cut Paper with a Rotary Cutter?

Yes, you can cut paper with a rotary cutter. In fact, you can cut curves, straight lines and multiple layers with a rotary cutter. Usually, customers pick a 45mm rotary cutter for cutting fabric, paper, vinyl or felt.

How to Use a Rotary Cutter to Cut Fabric?

If you want to learn how to use a rotary cutter to cut fabric, please watch this video and read carefully the guidelines that I provided. I sincerely believe that it is easier to learn by following visual instructions.

How to Use a Rotary Cutter Without a Mat?

It is highly suggested that you use a rotary blade with mats. It is a surface which you can use to cut fabric with a rotary cutter. It will keep your blades super sharp and protect your surface from cuts or scratches.

However, if you cannot afford a mat at the moment, you can use cardboard, according to people online. Keep in mind that this type of surface will dull your blade faster. You can use melamine/Formica counter that you do not mind messing up. This works as a temporary solution but it will get destroyed over time.

What is The Best Rotary Cutter For Quilting?

Everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to buying a rotary cutter. However, these 5 best-selling picks can meet everyone’s needs. You cannot go wrong, no matter which one you choose.

• CLOVER 7500 45mm Rotary Cutter
• OLFA 9551 RTY-1/G 28mm Straight Handle Rotary Cutter
• Fiskars Classic 45mm Comfort Loop Rotary Cutter
• Olfa 45mm Deluxe Ergonomic Rotary Cutter
• Gingher 45mm Rotary Cutter

How to Use Rotary Cutter for Quilting?

In order to learn how to use a rotary cutter for quilting, please watch this useful video. I believe that you would agree with me that learning things like this is a lot easier by watching than it is by reading a bunch of complex instructions on how to do it. However, do not worry. It is pretty simple to learn how to use it.

FAQ

Final Verdict

If you want a 60mm cutter Fiskars 01-005875 60mm Rotary Cutter is ideal for you. However, if you need a 45mmm, pick CLOVER 7500 45mm Rotary Cutter or Olfa 45mm Deluxe Ergonomic Rotary Cutter. If you want something smaller, OLFA 9551 RTY-1/G 28mm Straight Handle Rotary Cutter is one of the greatest.

I sincerely hope that my buying guide and detailed reviews can help you select the best rotary cutter for you. Please share this article with your best friends and follow my site for latest updates. Also, I want to know if you had experience with some of the products that I have mentioned? Leave a comment below.