Hi everyone! I have read a lot about which rotary cutters are best etc. I just bought a new one with an extra blade. The first blade became dull quite soon. Now the second one is dull too.

I am wondering if cutting mats make a difference. I never thought about it until now. Would really like to know.

Also, we have discussed sore backs. I was cutting several strips today and after a few hours my back started to kill me. I have a nice high table. It then occurred to me that when I was a beautician many, many moons ago in the 70s, we were taught to bring our hips forward and to bend one knee slightly. I started doing that and it took the strain off my back immediately. I hope this will help others. It was amazing.

If you were cutting for hours, then it is no wonder that the blade is dull. lol

Make sure that you keep your blade straight up and down so that it is not rubbing wrong on the ruler. That will help.

I changed my cutting mat because it seemed to make my blades dull. It really did make a difference to me.

Also, blade choice is a key factor.

Mats do make a difference in how long a blade stays sharp. I'm pretty sure Olfa is one of the better brands.

Great tip about standing for long periods

I use different brand of cutting mats. I have every surface in my sewing room covered by a mat. Olfa, Fiskars, Polar, June Taylor, Martelli, Fons and Porter which I think is Olfa. I found the self healing mats seem to dull the blade faster then the hard surface mats. I like June Taylor and the best one and the most expensive mat is the Martelli brand. They last much longer and saves money over time. It is the mat I have used the longest.

what brand of mat and cutters are you using. difficult to give an imformed opinion without knowing this.

I use a Martelli mat and cutter and have not changed a blade in over a year.

part of your back problem could be your nice high table. try using a lower table. made a world of difference for me.i'm not hunching up anymore but using my whole arm and shoulder. if you notice, the tables they use at joanns are lower than the cutting tables they sell.

My cutting board is made by Fiskars. It is 24 x 36 pink on one side and yellow on the other. Have had it for approx. 10 years.