luana

First of all, it's wonderful that you are taking the time to teach your son how to sew.
Second, I respect you for being concerned about safety. If you are nervous about him using the rotary cutter, that's a good sign that he is too young.
Have fun!

stitchengramie

I would not let him use a rotary cutter just yet.

jitkaau

If you give them safety instructions first and then don't hover too much, kids are generally OK with it all.Make sure everything works well.I think more accidents happen when tools are blunt or inadequate, I have had 7 year olds sewing and I keep an eye on tool use etc.They have to pass a licence test with me before I let them use everything.They don't mind, and understand it is for safety reasons.I give them a certificate and a bit of material when they are ready.I live in an area where there are not many kids now, and I miss having the sewing times.
PS Kids get to use these tools and power tools whilst they are in High School. In my opinion, the Science laboratory activities require closer vigilance.

mldsews

Do you know what these cutters are called? I would love to purchase one.

Thanks,
Mary Lou

jacqueck

Give him some strict rules -- and he must always follow them, or.... Get a self closing cutter. He must ALWAYS wear shoes when cutting. Can only cut when you are right there. I've taught 6 grandkids, no one was ever cut. Teach him the safe way, he'll do it the safe way.

donna13350

I would never let a 9 year old use a rotary cutter...but having said that...there is a lot he can do and learn, right up to the cutting stage...teach him to straighten the grain, use a ruler, use the markings on the mat, iron, how to stack fabric for cutting, how to read and follow a pattern...he can still participate a lot without risking stitches!

nana2

It all depends on the child!!!!! A nine year old can have the motor skills required to use rotary cutters, but may or maynot be responsible enough to respect the safety/dangers that go with the use of this tool. I have taught my autistic GD to quilt. We started when she was about eight. We took it step by step with a lot of safety instructions along the way. Because she was very accepting of safety issues there have never been issues. In fact it made me more aware of practicing safety. You know -- Lead by example.

Dolphyngyrl

probably 12 or 13 I think they are more wary of safety with a rotary cutter, but you can let him watch you so he can get the idea

runninL8

My 11 year old grandson has shown an interest in sewing. He is able to sew a pretty accurate 1/4 inch seam. As to cutting - I have him use the Accuquilt Go. That cutting process is fun for him and even though I am constantly supervising, he enjoys being the one who is producing the cut pieces. I hide my rotary cutters when he is around - Absolutely not worth a chance of cut fingers!

cabbagepatchkid

That is a wonderful idea! I used scissors, to cut out my quilts, for many years so my kids will also use scissors. i'll have to check out those gloves.