Use a ruler with sticky/sandpaper on the back so it will not move. Walk your hand up the ruler as you cut. Only move the hand when you are NOT cutting. Stand at a comfortable height. Try not to cut through too many layers of fabric. Most important, use a SHARP blade, no nicks. Sometimes you need a new cutting board. Try not to always cut on the same line on the board. And, most of all be safe, I had band-aides on all of my fingers before I learned how to use a cutter; even tried to cut a few fingers off!