I have always cut all material and such with scissors. What is a good cutter and mat. I've decided that it takes too long to do everything the way I have always have done them. :)

I have all kinds and really haven't noticed a big difference in any of them.

I've never had trouble with any brand I've bought. My problem is that I always seem to need a larger mat for biger projects :) Never had any problems with off brand rotary cutter either! Just remember that if you're having to put much effort on the blade "after awhile" then you probably need a new blade *I learned that the hard way!*

I have a Olfa-regular, a Gingher- ergomatic(sp), a fiskar and a Sullivains (ergomatic-sp) Rotary Cutter all 45mm and I tend to use the Olfa-regular more than any other. For a mat I have a Fiskar and a Olfa and use them both about the same be sure that they are self healing they last much longer.

there are several styles of cutters and you need to try them out to see what is more comfortable for you. I personally recommend the kind that opens when you squeeze the handle and closes when you release the handle...for safety sake. Brand name doesn't seem to make a difference in the cutters. I agree with babyfire4 that bigger is better in mats. The mat should be advertised as "self-healing" or some similar term.

I have used several different cutters and blades. I have several Fiskars cutters, a Martelli, a Clauss and a Gingher. I have to say once I got the Gingher all the rest paled in comparison. The Gingher is *expensive* but you can get it for 40% off or 50% off with a coupon at Jo-Ann's. The Gingher blades are shaper than any other blade I've used and I've used even more brands of blades than cutters.

I would recommend the Olfa 45mm cutter with the slightly curved handle. I've tried many different ones and these are still my favourites. I'd buy the larger mat 24" X 36" so that you can cut a complete strip the width of the fabric. You'll also need a basic ruler. My personal favourite and most often used is the 5" X 24" O'Lipfa with the little edge that hugs your cutting board resulting in far fewer miscuts and slips. This will get you started but you should also get someone who is really good at cutting to show you and give you some tips. It's not as easy as you might think at first and we don't want you discouraged or cut from poor rotary cutting technique.

Also be sure and check ebay....sometimes you can find some really good deals there. I got a whole set for 30.00 once (6 different ones all gingher including 8" dressmaker, embroidery (2) types, applique, and a 8" pinking. Brand new with paper still with them.

I have an Olfa cutter and love it. I just invested in a larger cutting board, but have used my smaller one for years.

go for the largest sized board you can afford and that will fit your work surface. I have the 36x24 (or thereabouts) size cutting mat and I love it. If I had a larger surface, I'd have a larger mat. I have smaller mats that are rarely used. My 8x12 I use in other locations, like on the back patio during the summer, when cutting scraps into specific sizes. Other than that, it's my large mat only.

Laurie

Mats: the Martelli as they seem to last much longer are are gentler on your rotary blade. Well worth it. I do have 2 very large mats that I store under my bed for squaring up quilts. These aren't Martelli as I don't use them enough to find them cost effective.

Rotary cutters: depends on what fits you best. Many of my friends love the Martelli ergonomic rotary cutters. I can't use them because I would need finger pressure I don't have. Borrow from friends and try the out. I love Fiskars pistol grip cutters and the Olfa squeeze grip cutters where the blade goes back in when you aren't using them [the absolute best for working in a class or with others, no accidents waiting to happen.] Basically, whatever you bond with and can work effectively with.

ali

I also like the Olfa ergonomic (curved handle), the blade recesses back into the cutter when you release your grip from the handle vs the straight handle where you have to push the cover back over the blade manually. It's funny how many times i've nicked myself with the straight handle style and still would find myself putting down the cutter with the blade exposed.

Self healing mats are nice, I use both Olfa and Omnigrid mats myself (I guess I like the green) and I have a few different styles and sizes. There are a wide variety of mats with various markings on them so choose which one fits your quilting style best.

I use Olfa the most.

I have several brands of mats and the same with the cutters. Actually I haven't noticed a bit of difference in any of the, I do have a Martinelli ergonomical cutter and it does help if you have hand and wrist problems.

I like the Fiskars cutter because when you set it down, it automatically closes (as does the Olfa)
I cant use the straight handle ones, it bothers my wrists alot.

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the input. If it quits snowing, I am going to Joanns tomorrow and get one.

I would have to say in my honest opinion that the OLFA brand is best - as for me the blades have always stayed sharper far longer than Fiskars and are the brand most regularly on sale. Which means - I can stock up on blades and different sizes versus other brands that are just as good, but that don't very often go on sale at any of my local craft stores.

Explosive blessings, abundance and inspiration to you all!
- The Creative Seamstress

Ditto