Originally Posted by janecat
I recently purchased an Accuquilt Go. I am using the die that came with the Go to cut squares and HSTs.
For those of you who have an Accuquilt, here are my questions:
1. It seems quite hard to turn the handle--and I am only cutting through 4 layers of regular cotton quilting fabric. Is this normal?
2. The cutting mat seems like it really gets hammered. How often do you have to replace your mats?
3. I'm having trouble getting out the little pieces of fabric that get caught in the corner of the HST foam die. I'm using the little tool that came with the Go to kind of dig it out. How concerned should I be about not getting out all the little bits of fabric?
4. I have an old Olfa cutting mat that I don't use any more (I have a newer one that I use). Eventually, when my Go mat wears out, can I cut up the old Olfa mat as a replacement?
Thanks for any advice you can give me.
I know that there is an Accuquilt usersgroup, and I plan to join that soon to get some tips.
Thanks!
+ + + + +
To answer your questions...
1. When you first start out, it's easier to cut only 1-2 layers at a time, until the handle is "broken in". And on the rag dies I still only cut 1-2 layers at a time and I've had my GO for months.
2. The mats will war out. Thhink about what their purpose is...to protect the rollers from the dies. Again, I am still using my first 10 x 10 mat even though it is very worn and it's still working fine.
3. You don't need to be really concerned about getting out the little bits of fabric in the corners or certain areas. In addition to the pick I also use a toothbrush to brush out along the die lines.
4. NO don't use an Olfa mat! The cutter is designed to use their mats and any other mats are too thick and may very well ruin the rollers.
Please feel free to ask any more questions and I'll be glad to help! (And yes, I am an AQ dealer).