I agree backwards is a tricky thing. I'm extremely careful when I do it. Its just like you are suppose click your blade closed after every use and not put it down with the blade out.

So far I've only cut 2 layers at the most. I really think there is something wrong with that cutter. Or I am a complete idiot and have to take a class on how to hold this cutter!

your not an idiot! but it does take some practice to cut.. itook a basics class when i first started quilting, and learned alot..

here are some U-Tube shorts on cutting with a rotary cutter, i don't know if it will help, but worth a shot, since we can't be with you!
http://video.google.com/videosearch?...=com.microsoft:en-US&q=how+to+cut+fabric+with+a+rotary+cutter+site:y outube.com&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=ZC-RS-LaDoHQM7j99PgM&sa=X&oi=video_result_group&ct=title &resnum=4&ved=0CDIQqwQwAw#

Thanks, I've got to run now, but will look at the videos later! I'm already feeling much better and encouraged about this cutting business!

To keep my ruler from slipping, I use the sandpaper dots on the back. It really helps.

I just saw a demo of a Martelli cutting mat that really self hear, an ergonomic rotary cutter and a new kind of ruler that is designed to stay in place. They are really expensive, but probably worth the money for me just in the savings for bad cuts and lousy mats.

You can also use a water soluble glue stick around the edges, which will keep the edges in place for you to stitch them, but will wash out.

The tool advertised on the web site i is for cutting mat boards for picture framing - 69.00 special - the cutter with 2 arms, one cutting and the other a side arm- looks very similar to a cutter I purchased by Fiscars and called Rotary Ruler (cost $70.00 plus shipping) except the Fiscars has only the ruler with cutter. These seem to be hard to find - the first one I saw was in a Wal Mart fabric department for less - but I passed it up thinking I would get one later. (they carry a 12 in. for scrapbooking, etc.). Results - I looked at every Wal Mart I have been in to no avail. I went in on the Fiscars webside, I think, and ordered it. It is 24 inches long with a 45 rotary cutter down the middle. Nice for cutting strips.
misbelle

What size of ruler are you using? Example, you need to cut a six in sq., are you using a 12 1/2 in ruler, or a 6 1/2 or even an 8 1/2 sq ruler. Sometimes you can't control the ruler if it is big and you are cutting a small block. Also I find that the sandpaper circles work well. You can find them at most quilting shops.

After you trace your applique on the Steam-a-Seam, try cutting out the inner portion of the Steam-a-Seam, leaving a 1/4-1/2" to be pressed to the fabric.

I had wrist problems too until I found a suction cup towel bar at Walmart. Works like a charm and is lighter than the one at Harbor Freight.