laurac

I find myself faced with a series of tendon injuries and repairs for my arms. When the latest surgery allows me to use my arm again I want to remove or lessen the strain of some quilting tasks. A got a combo quilt/embroidery machine so I can machine quilt some of the quilts.
Now I am looking for ways to lessen the strain of cutting. That was a rough tasks after the last surgery. I am considering a cutting machine but money is a big factor. I'm considering the cameo silhouette or the brothers scann cut. I like the idea of no expensive dies to buy. What do you think?
Any ideas to lessen the strain would be most appreciated. I quilt for relaxation and fun!

QuiltE

Some that have faced challenges have arranged for a trade .... someone cuts for you in exchange for something you can do for them. And that does not necessarily need to be quilt-related. Just so long as the two of you are happy with the trade, then all will be good!

PaperPrincess

The two machines you mentioned are great, especially for applique. They may not be a good choice for cutting an entire quilt, however. You can only cut one layer at a time. Make sure you read lots of info about them and watch you tube videos before making a decision.
You can also try ergonomic rotary cutters, such as the Martelli.
I really think QuiltE has a great idea of exchanging cutting services.
you can also buy laser pre cut kits on John Flynn's website:
http://flynnquilt.danemcoweb.com/sho.../pre-cut-kits/

QuiltE

Another thought ...
Ask at your LQS(s) or Guild(s)... some will custom cut and kit up individual projects for you.
Of course, for a fee, but it does help meet a challenge.

ManiacQuilter2

My friend bought and then sold her Brothers Scan and Cut. Unless you are doing a lot of applique, I just don't think it works as well as her new AccuCut. Not sure what the electrical one is called. Make sure to see a demo done because it is a lot of money to invest. I would HOPE that a family member or friend could help you with the cutting.

laurac

I was afraid they were more craft or applique friendly. I'll do some more research and see if I can think of a friend who might work something out with me.

yngldy

For strips, regular blocks, I can't say enough for the ruler/rotary cutter combo from Fiskars. It is a 6 x24" ruler with cutter, all one piece. It cost about $24 with a Joann 60% coupon. ($60 regular price). You barely touch on the cutter as you pull or push it (2 layers) and I have cut through 8 layers before. Don't know how I lived without it!!

juneayerza

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA_iHl2Qa-g
Here is a video of the product yngldy wrote about.

laurac

Thanks, both juneayerza and yngldy. That's a reasonably priced cutter and looks like it would be easy to teach to a family member being coerced to cut for me IF the tendon problems don't get under control. Looks like it will create lots less stress holding and cutting. Thanks!

juneayerza

Here is another video to watch. To me, since you don't have to grip it, it might cause less strain on tendons.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=um_VB4q4ywI