JoanneS

Does Alto use the same rotary blades we use in rotary cutters? 45? 60?

BellaBoo

You use a rotary cutter, the alto is a cutting mat with fabric holder and adjustable ruler. Lots of YouTube videos showing how it works.

DebsShelties

This I do not know, maybe others can answer this question. I only use cotton fabrics on both the Alto and ACCUQUILT - Go.

CarrieAnne

I have the Go, have never seen the other one. I prewash my fabric all the time THEN use the go, and shapes are fine.

cgroark

I have one and I dislike it intensely. I either use the GO cutter and rotary cut without the Alto. Mine is back in its box and stays in the closet. I guess I need to sell it; it is virtually brand new.

dgmoby

Of course you can - you can cut any fabric that is cut-able with a regular rotary cutter of any size. It's easy and simple. The advantage is that once you place the ruler, the cut is simple and straight, and it has a side bar that you can set to cut multiple rows of the same width each and every time. The fabric holder holds the fabric for you, if desired, so it doesn't move until you're ready to release it. It's very fast and easy - and no waste.

Even my friends who have medical conditions that cannot turn the handle on the Go, can and do use the Alto. They really like it, for it's steadiness and ease of use.

I was going to also buy a Go for my appliqué pieces, but found the handles to be difficult to turn for me. It requires some strength in the hands, I found. Also, the expense of the dies was rather shocking - but I would bet at some point those costs will come down. I think, anyway :)

My opinions only,
Debbie in Austin

CarrieAnne

Debbie, I hope you are right, the Dies ARE expensive!

MamaHen

I can't live without my Alto's now. It was a little hard to get use to at first, but with time I have come to love it. Much nicer than a plain old green mat on the table top. Love it Love It!!!

Wanda_GA

I have the GO and love it, you can watch the different places i.e. Nancy's Notions, and other places that sell Quilting merchandise and find sales. I think when you purchase whichever cutter you naturally are going to love it because that's why you chose it.

I'm 72 with arthritis and can turn the handle on the GO, whereas I have trouble with the rotary cutter. Maybe it's just an individual preference.

katsewnsew

I have had the Altos for about 7 years. The original one. I love it! But after reading some of the posts, many think it is a machine. It is not a machine. Manual labor, ladies. You use your own rotary cutter. But it works great! I have cut many, many strips, triangles, squares on it. I would highly suggest that you check out any videos on it before you buy so you know what to expect. I would highly recommend it! I just love mine!