Okay, I know this sounds impossible but I have been using the same rotary blade for over a year now. I have cut out at least four full size quilts, four baby quilts and tons of scraps... This bade won't die!! It beginning to skip every now and then, but I still feel like I can get more life out of it. Anyone else pinch pennies that bad?

I have kept on using my rotary blade until it is duller than my table knives.

When I finally get around to putting a new one in - it sure makes cutting easier!

i just took the time to change blades. i'm of the mind that 'why should i change it when it still cuts?'. LOL
i can't believe how the blade just slides through the fabric now!

Yes, I do and it's ridiculous b/c I have a lot of blades collecting dust! I can be soooo cheap

It's too hard on my hands to try and cut with a dull blade. I've been having to change them about every project and a half. I recently bought the Martelli cutter and blades, and am hoping that cutter will be easier on my hands and the blades will last longer.

I use them until they skip BAD. Also don't change needles every 8 hours...I'd be going through needles like water at that rate!

Dull blades are harder on the cutting mat as well as well as the arms.
Mike

I have gone a bit longer than what others would consider normal, but I just do not like wasting $$.

I have to watch myself as I'm prone to pushing down too hard and that dulls the blade faster. I change my blade when they skip so bad I start cussing, then always wonder after I change it why did I wait so long?
As for changing the needle in my machine, I do it when I hear that it needs changed. That distinctive "puck-puck-puck" of a dull needle as it enters the fabric tells me it's past time to change it. Sometimes though when I'm starting a new project and can't remember the last time I changed it I'll do it as I'm cleaning/oiling the machine to ready it for the new project.

Cari

My blades don't seem to last very long, perhaps I am pushing down too hard. I'll have to watch that.