goldendog, think about a paper cutter in scrap book section at Walmart. It's about 12 inches and has a little cutting point and you slip the fabric under a plastic thingy and push the knob to cut. It is ideal for small work. I got mine 1/2 price regular $20.00. It might be useful while you are mending. I'm told replacement cutting points are available. I use mine at the sewing machine for small trimming.