I've been using the same blade now for two months and I cut lots of fabric(not only for myself but for my MIL and some friends) I did make the mistake of putting both blades out of the same package in my cutter once and knew it right away...If you like paying for the expensive blades..keep on doing it...myself I save money whenever I can . It gives me more money for fabric and anything else I want...I coupon(save 1/3 to 1/2 off my grocery bill EVERY month) and watch for sales and very proud of it....