Rotary Mishaps

A rotary cutter is a must for every quilter and most sewers. It is also one of the most dangerous tools in our arsenal.

If you remember my last post describing the disastrous first quilt, think 5 1/2 years later when I attempted to make my second one. I will describe that disaster in my next post but right now I feel there is something much more important to speak to you about. The dangers of rotary cutting and a few dont's for you to learn.

The first and most important rule is this: Never think you can put your cutting mat on the floor and cut your fabric that way. I had just put in a fresh blade and decided to get cutting. I thought, who needs a table, I'll just cut it right here on the floor. Mistake number one. I now have a scar on my ankle to prove my theory and a lecture from my husband about using a table forever embedded in to my mind. I think the scar on my ankle though embedded that idea a little better. I also tend to slip a little to far back and over the ruler the rotary cutter goes and into my skin. If you have ever cut yourself with a rotary, especially one with a fresh blade, then you know it barely needs to touch your skin to leave a very deep cut that will bleed profusely.

I learned my lesson with that one. My next cutting project I used my table. Unfortunately, I have always been a naturally clumsy person and still managed to cut myself another three times. I was even trying to be extra careful. I now have to keep a box of band-aids on my sewing desk. If I am not cutting myself with the rotary I am accidentaly getting my finger caught in the way of the sewing machine and getting my finger cut as the needle comes down. When I make a blanket I literally pour my blood, sweat, and tears in to it.

My message to you, is always use precaution when using your rotary and while sewing. They also make special gloves to wear to avoid cuts when rotary cutting. If you are anything like me, you may want to invest in a pair.

Until next time...Happy Quilting!

My Very First Quilt

Ahh, my first quilt. What a complete disaster. But I think our first is usually our worst. A very dear friend of mine who has since passed on, taught me to quilt about 5 1/2 years ago. She insisted on teaching me to make a quilt from beginning to end completely by hand. For someone who had never even sewed anything before that was quite the learning experience.

I had decided to make that first quilt for a good friend who was going to have a baby. First rule of beginning quilters is to start out with a small project so a baby quilt was perfect. I tried with all my might to make a good quilt but nonetheless it came out a disaster. I don't think my friend ever even used the quilt. It was absolutely horrid.

For the next 5 1/2 years I never made another quilt. I did make some other sewing projects when I bought my first sewing machine. It was my mentor's last wish that I learn how to use a sewing machine before she passed away from cancer. I bought a very basic Brother machine that did not have very many stitch functions and did not like to do quilts.

I ended up having to sell that sewing machine when finances got tight but recently I decided to treat myself for once and get another sewing machine. I had decided that I was in the mood to get back in to quilting. I bought myself another Brother machine but it cost $200.00 and is a sewing and quilting machine so I thought it was perfect.

I decided to do another baby quilt for the same friend as before who this time was having a baby girl. I picked out some nice fabrics and got started. This is another story unto itself so I will dedicate my next post to sharing with you that disaster project.

Until next time....Happy Quilting!