Originally Posted by Lacelady
I have three different makes, but the one I use all the time is the Olfa that shuts (or goes into safety mode) when you put it down. This is the safest one for me, because I am inclined to forget to put the safety catch on with the others. With my Olfa, I know it is safe the minute it is out of my hand, because the blade is only in operation when I am squeezing the handle. (You can also lock it in the safety position, if you have children around) Worth any extra money to me, compared to cheaper alternatives.
I, too, tend to forget to shield the blade when I set the cutter down. Blood is so annoying to get out of fabric. And those cuts bleed for quite a while!
I think if I was to get only one now - it would be a 45 mm with an automatic blade shield when it's not in use. I don't know if brand is that all-important any more. Like someone said, the first one you adapt to, will be the one you will probably like best.
I think one is better off getting good quality tools the first time one buys them (by good, I do not necessarily mean the very top of the line). I think it saves a lot of money in the long run.