Need ergonomic rotary cutter
 

I am looking for recommendations for a good ergonomic rotary cutter. The Martelli is the only one I have seen mentioned when I searched here but it looks like there are a few issues with it (specific blades, learning curve) and perhaps there is another alternative, or two, that would be good. I have been using an old Fiskars pistol grip which is likely the worst type but it was what I had and just jumped in with it. If the Martelli is really the best then I will go that way. Thanks in advance!

I like to try them first. They need to fit my hand. I've tried the Martelli ones and not bonded with it. My favorite for now is the Olfa 60mm. Slide the blade to cut. Slide the blade to close. I always-always close it after cutting. I have one of the squeeze ones too. I don't want to have to hold it to keep it open while cutting. It is safer though. No squeeze-No cut!

I would like to try the Quilters Select to see how they fit my hand. Good luck!

saw these on ebay
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw...&ul_noapp=true

I use any brand of blades with a round hole on my martelli cutter. The martelli blades didn't last long for me although I know some like them a lot.

I have been using the ergonomic Olfa rotary cutters for years.

How about the Quilter’s Select rotary cutter? I don’t own one but just curiosity if that would be a good one.

I'm not familiar with ergonomic cutters other than the Martelli, which I love. I was unable to continue using the standard style cutter (had used the Olfa 45mm) because of joint deterioration, but the Martelli puts no stress whatever on the fingers; in fact, you don't even need your fingers on the cutter; they liken the dynamic to the way one would push a car (with the heel of the hand), or a rolling pin. Good luck finding the right cutter!

I love Quilter Select. It has a great feel to it. I also love their rulers too. The rulers have the best feel on the fabrics I have ever used.

I just ordered a True Cut which is supposed to be ergonomic. The cutter and ruler set were on sale plus there was another 15% off. I haven't received the set yet so I'll have to wait to see if it's everything they claim.

I bought a couple of ergonomic fiskar rotary cutters and I hate using them. I doubt I would like any other ones.

I only use fiskar, all I have used and love them. If my hands hurt I just move hands, wrists and fingers around to loosen them up.

I much prefer the ergonomic Olfa cutter.

I just ordered the Martelli and a pair of cut resistant gloves. Given the place on my hand that was giving me issues it looked like the best option and if it doesn't work out I am sure I can pass it on and try another. Thank you all for your help!

I don't have any input as far as ergonomic, BUT I love using Fiskars brand items. They replace any of their products with an issue, no matter how long you have used them. I have had the first cutter I ever purchased replaced with a newer updated one when the slide part that covers the blade broke.

Scrappy I agree with you. I've had problems with rotary cutter...3 replaced free of charge. Ruler fell off cutting table. Landed on a corner. Corner snapped off. Sent pic. New one in a couple weeks. Rotating mat ended up with grooves from years of use. Guess what. NEW ONE! They just need pic of the item. What the issue is and ya wait. Now the wait is longer due to Co-vid.

I love the Martelli ERGO 2000. I have the 45 mm & 60 mm, but use the 45 the most. I have a drawer full of Olfa and fiskars and they are good, but I find after a few hours of cutting my hand was hurting. I never have that problem with the Martelli. Some of my friends had problems at first getting used to using it, but once they figured it out they haven't used anything since.

I have my first rotary cutter which has to be 15-20 years old. It is a Dritz whereby the blade comes out when you use it, and immediately goes back to its original position when you lift it from cutting. Nothing to open and close manually. Don't even know if they make this kind anymore. No special blade just the round one like everyone else uses. I think being a lefty this is the best for me.

I basically use the Fisker's with the curved handle....but what I found most helpful was to use the biggest size you can...for most cuts I use the 60 mm one....but also the 45 mm one a lot. and I also have smaller sizes for more delicate cuts. And always replace your blade when it does not cut easy. Oh...don't tighten the blade too tightly. Have it so it does not wobble...but with light presser will roll easily. A lot of folks tighten the blade too much making it harder to roll. And I love putting my cutting board on my raised cutting table. I have it up on bed risers. I don't have to bend over to cut and it is much more comfortable for my back, arms, and hands. Oh...and take breaks frequently...consider a timer. And also consider investing in an accuquilt Go if you can. I got mine before they came out with the electric one, but I have been thinking of getting one.

I love my olfas. I also have a gingher I love as well. I prefer the quick change ones

If you are referring to the Olfa ergonomic cutter that you squeeze the handle to expose the blade, you don't have to keep squeezing it while cutting. The locking button that secures it shut also secures it open. I've used this kind of cutter for years and I love it. It's much more comfortable than the straight cutter for me.

Leslie

Right now it’s the 60 squeeze handle. I like laying it down and it’s closed!
I also love the Quilters Select 45. It is a substantial cutter. Feels good to use.
I tried a Kai. No open or close. Start rolling and the pressure brings out the blade. Have not been able to get a good cut from that one.
of course any cutter with a new sharp blade it nice! I have a tendency to use my blades way too long!!!

I too prefer the 60mm self closing Olfa...I really, really like that it closes the blade when you stop squeezing. That has always seemed far safer to me than a blade you have to purposely click "closed".

Safety is the biggest issue I have with the martelli. Yes, there's a cover, but you have to remember to close it every time. But the worst thing is, when I go to set it on the table (between cuts) it often goes blade-up. I've cut myself (only once so far) on the sticking-up blade. So you have to consciously set it blade down between cuts (it's easy to set it the wrong way) or remember to close the blade every time.