I usually get an idea for a quilting project by seeing a picture in a publication, or on the Internet. Then I am all gung-ho to try it myself. But - I quickly fizzle out because I can't easily cut strips or can't mark the fabric for strips. I've tried several ways to mark the fabric. And I own several rotary cutters and blade sharpening tools, but none of them seem to work enough to bother with. ! Is there a solution?

Have you ever thought about buying an Accuquilt GO? A little expensive but could help you. Just a thought.

Welcome from Massachusetts :-D

What are the problems that you are having with the rotary cutter? Is the blade dull or haven't you learned the technique, yet? You've come to the right place to get help for your problem.

sounds like you have all the right equipment but you lack the knowledge in how to use it!!! why not stop by a LQS or JoAnns and see if they could offer you a few tips. There are also a ton of good videos on YouTube but sometimes you really need that one on one personal touch....good luck, you will catch on. Remember, everyone had to start where you are today....a baby can't run a race before he takes his first steps!!

jodi in leavenworth

Not everyone does well with rotary cutting, I know. But it is a skill, and one that you can improve at, unless you have physical issues that get in the way of making good cuts.

Consider finding a quilting buddy who is good at (and enjoys) making accurate cuts. If you can reciprocate with a skill (or your time or space or even pay), it could solve your problem.

Of you can buy the precuts that are out on the market now. Many quilts don't require much additional cutting from the 5 inch squares and the 2/5 inch strips.

RST

http://store.junetailor.com/store/c-2-rulers.aspx
perhaps a strip cutter ruler from this site would work well for you.
also this
http://quilting.about.com/od/rotaryc...ing_strips.htm

You didn't mention if you had any rulers; and why are you marking your fabric if you do? Something is missing from this puzzle. It's a mystery me thinks! :lol:

Are you new to the rotary cutter or quilting?

I know the rotary cutter really takes a lot of practice in the beginning. I've learned I have to really have a firm grip on my ruler or it will shift as I cut. And I have ruined a good chunk of fabric, one reason I got into making crumb blocks-to use up all my mistakes.

If you don't have a quilter or LQS handy to assist maybe some books from the libray? If you live close enough to a library-I know some people live way out in the boonies and don't want to mess with driving to the library. There are some good tutorials on youtube this is Pat Sloan's

http://www.youtube.com/user/Harleykn.../6/LjQNY9j_PIQ


If it's a physical problem maybe use a cutting system. Someone has mentioned the accuquilt but there is another one that might be good:
http://www.quiltcut.com/

June Taylor strip cutter! Best thing I EVER bought! Ruined fabric tying to cut on my own. Now I have fun! Also cuts squares. Triangles ect! I got the largest one possible!!

You need a good cutting mat to cut on and a ruler or two in order to measure and use a rotary cutter.
Try this link to YouTube...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ebyZrgkIbk

Hope this helps.
Kirsten

You're not trying to cut on a carpeted floor, are you? You need a firm surface like a table or countertop and a cutting mat and a rotary cutting ruler. If you have strength problems with your hands, you should definitely check out the June Taylor Shape Cut rulers.

You did not mention a ruler. You can get a well marked ruler & you should not have to mark your fabric. Try Easy Rule II by Sharon Hultgren. It is a 23" x6 1/2. there is also one by Creative grids that is a non slip ruler.You can go to www.creativegridsusa.com and see the different sizes.This ruler has 3/4- 1/2- 1/4 marking along with the other sizes. I like mine very much,just got it last week.

This would be my question also, especially why you are marking fabric for strips?.....and are you using a cutting mat? Many of the other members mentioned great sites to help you along...if you still are having problems come back and ask more so we can try our best to help you out. :-D

If you have all the right equipment, rulers, mats, quilting buddy, etc., the next best thing to do is starch your fabrics before cutting, PRESS your seams NOT iron. If you let us know what you're having problems with or can show us pictures, I'm sure you'll get lots of tips to help you. Please don't be discouraged, there is skill definitely needed.