KimS

I did it really good this time! Should have probably had stitches in my finger from cutting it with the rotary cutter but didn't. My question is....is there anything out there, other than gloves (wouldn't wear those), that will protect your hand while using the rotary cutter? I've done a search on here and the only thing I found was quite expensive so that's not going to happen. Suggestions anyone?

valleyquiltermo

I have an old chain medal glove that I use, other then that I don't know what you'd use, sorry I'm no help.

ckcowl

the best way to protect your fingers is to NEVER EVER have them hanging over the side of your ruler- it is very important to always practice safety- and place your fingers on top of the ruler safely away from the edge\ if you are not sure how to properly use your cutter you should first thing watch some videos demonstrating the technique-a rotory cutter is a round razor blade-and can easily do major harm when not used properly. i kind of think the gloves give a false sense of safety- the safest way is to never use it when upset- or distracted- pay attention to what you are doing and how you are doing it. never lay it down open- if your rulers have worn edges/knicks= replace them=never use a cutter with damaged rulers....Safety should always come first

KimS

It took me 6 years to do this but now I've done it 2 times in the last 6 months. I'm usually really, really careful because I know how sharp the cutters are. I always make sure my fingers are out of the way so not really sure what happened this time. Just paying too much attention to the marks on the ruler to keep things straight and had my finger hanging over the edge. Wish Granny was still here because she worked at Hunters and was a meat cutter. She had the chain metal gloves but never thought I'd have any use for them so when she asked if I wanted them told her no. Those would have been perfect!

nativetexan

Fon's and Porter seem to have a glove for cutting. On some of my rulers i use a plastic stick on guard strip. shaped like an L. I got mine at JoAnn's long ago. of course i cut my finger using the side of my long ruler without the guard!

QuiltE

If you are paying too much attention to line things up while cutting, then you are not using the equipment correctly. As CKCowl suggested perhaps watch some of the videos for some How To tips! yes, you've done it for six years without problems, though twice in 6 months is twice too often.

It's important to get everything lined up correctly. Put your hand/fingers on the ruler, check again. All this BEFORE you take the rotary blade in hand. And check again, that your fingers are out of the way. Then and only then do you pick up the rotary with your other hand and engage the blade. Acton! ... close the blade, set down the rotary. And onto the next step.

BellaBoo

From most expensive to least expensive, doesn't matter, get one and use it or have a sliced finger at some point.

http://shop.shiisaquilts.com/store/p...sp?idproduct=2

http://quiltersslidelock.com/

http://www.createforless.com/Fons+_a...pid190029.aspx

http://www.createforless.com/search/...=gypsy gripper

Skittl1321

I don't use a cutting glove, but I use a gypsy gripper on my main ruler- that way my hands aren't spread out holding the ruler in place.

A cutting glove is probably a really good idea on smaller rulers. Bet I get one the first time I "learn my lesson"...

Shelbie

I've put the L shaped finger guard protectors on my long rulers and they work well. I also have the rubber gripper dots (sandpaper ones don't work as well) on all of my rulers so they don't slip. Cut in good light when you aren't tired and make sure that everything is set up for your dominant hand. Invest in a revolving mat if you are trimming up blocks so you won't be running around the table or trying to cut on the wrong side of your ruler. Focus on what you are doing and avoid distractions (this isn't the time to have an argument with DH). Use a sharp blade as the dull ones require more pressure and may slip cutting you. Good luck with all of this.

lindy-2

i use a gipsy gripper but i resently heard that you can get something very similar at an auto parts store and they cost almost half off what a gypsy gripper cost. but i think a gypsy gripper would still cost alot less than having to pay to have your finger stiched up. hope something works for you.