I would just like to add to all the good comments and recommendations that when the blade is very sharp cutting is so much easier. So if you use anything where you can change the blade, do it often so you don't have to push down as hard. I just cut strips for two quilts and I don't have any issues, but, it was getting harder so I changed the rotary cutter blade and then it went through the layers "like buttah"!! Let us know what you decide.