Rotary cutter vs dressmaking shears
When a 45mm (1 3/4 in) rotary cutter beats shears, and when it does not.
Dot's verdict
Quilters: rotary first. Dressmakers: shears first, rotary later.
Quilters: rotary first. Dressmakers: shears first, rotary later.
Pick Rotary cutter (Olfa Quick-Change 45mm (1 3/4 in)) if
you cut straight strips and patchwork; budget for a mat and ruler too.
Pick Shears (Fiskars RazorEdge 8.3 in (21 cm)) if
you cut garment pieces and curves with no extra kit.
Hidden cost
A rotary cutter needs a self-healing mat and a ruler.
Curves
Shears handle tight curves easily; a 45mm (1 3/4 in) cutter manages gentle curves.
Side by side
| Rotary cutter (Olfa Quick-Change 45mm (1 3/4 in)) | Shears (Fiskars RazorEdge 8.3 in (21 cm)) | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Straight strips, layers | Garments, curves |