seweasy

Hi! I purchased an expensive roll of plastic film that was "supposed" to keep the rulers from sliding when using the rotary cutter and the ruler. I can't tell much of a difference in the side of the ruler without the plastic film and the sides that does the film. Has anyone found anything that works better than the film?
Sure would appreciate hearing back what has worked. It's probably my biggest problem in quilting, getting a really straight cut line. Thankfully the ruler I use the most, has a lip on it that catches the edge of the table but it's the smaller rulers that I have the most trouble with, and you would think it would be the opposite since they're smaller. Thanks, Chris

BKrenning

Sandpaper dots. You can buy them prepackaged or make your own.

OHSue

I second the sandpaper dots. I bought the film and hear lots of folks talk about how it helps, but I had it on every ruler and it didn't fix the problem of slipping for me.

BellaBoo

Inexpensive solution: Gypsy Gripper
More Expensive solution: Alto Quilt 2 and it holds the fabric in place and the ruler is fixed so can't move until you are ready to move it.
Most expensive solution: Die cut machine with strip dies.

milp04

Hi Chris,

Did you check to make sure that you put the correct side of the film towards your ruler? There is a right and wrong side as I understand.

There may be a You Tube video about the product so you might want to check there. Where did you purchase the product? Do you have a LQS that you could ask? Do you have any other quilters in your area?

Have you tried using the small suction ruler clamps? You can purchase the small size at Harbor Freight. It is not the same purple color as the quilting brand but works the same.

As you're working through this process you could use a very cheap makeshift: cheap double-sided tape from the Dollar Store. It may work well enough until you can figure out the issues with the film.

Do you use the markings on your ruler for measurement? If using the markings on your mat, they can cause a problem as you try to cut over them. I do not use the mat markings, only measure with my ruler then cut.

When using rulers for marking, it is important to use one brand through a project. I even use just one ruler for making all of my measurements. I may use a longer ruler to cut the fabric but I typically use the 6x12 or 6x24 inch rulers for measuring the fabric for cutting. Different ruler brands will have ever slightly different measurements.

Also I clean my cutting mat quite often. There has been several threads about soaking the mats in plain water in the tub to help keep and extend their useful life. Never leave a mat around something hot, or in the sun. When in doubt about the mat, check out the manufacturer's website for further information.

Keep us posted as you figure out the solution to your problem. It may help someone in the future with the same issue.

Have a Great Quilty Day!

Pam M

Sweeterthanwine

I also use sandpaper dots and they work really well.

Painiacs

I agree sandpaper! Another suggestion June taylor cutting matts. They hAve grooves for ur rotary cutter to fit into. I use it for almost everything!!!

Airwick156

I use the sandpaper dots too. My next to buy notion thats not a notion is one of those gloves that they use on Fons & Porters show. Because ONE DAY...I'm going to chop a finger or two off. :)

crafty_linda_b

Yep the sand paper dots are the best in MHO..I submitted that as a tip to Marcus Brothers and they sent me a packet of 5 FQ's of aunt grace 30's repro fabrics..if you haven't done that yet..do so ..they will send you nice fabrics..I just got another set the other day too for submitting another tip..I use an empty glass qt size canning jar to hold my cone threads. It sits behind my machine and works great. The thread feeds out of it easily...
Yep Airwick...the Klutz glove is a finger saver..they cost about $20 for 1 glove not a set...but you only need one for the hand that is on the ruler and you can't replace a finger or pay for stitches for $20.
Happy Stitchin' Linda B.

dar627742

the BEST thing i've ffound is a tape called 3-m transpore
[used in hospitals & dr's offices][there was a "loose" partial
roll i'm ashamed to admit came home w/ me]works better than all the other things i 've used ! since then i 've found it at our pharmacy,so i can go back to being an honest person !
dar