Chele, I bet you will Love the Martelli then!! It does take a little getting used to...just because of the angle of it...but I just LOVE mine! I am not sure about using other blades with it... I bought a pack of them when I bought the cutter, so I have not tried another brand? I didn't realize when I bought the extra blades that there were 5 blades in the package...so when you see the cost is alittle more then others...that is why. I would love to get the mat they sell also, but I really have no reason to spend that much money on one, when mine works just fine. Oh, and yes.., It does cut easily through many layers of fabric...like butter! Four is the most I have wanted to try at one time, but it went through so effortlessly, I am sure you can do several more.
Hope you enjoy it! Great Mothers Day Gift :D
Julie*