How to Safely Change a Rotary Cutter Blade

Safety is of the utmost importance when changing a rotary cutter blade. These blades are very sharp. Even a dull blade can cause harm if not handled with care.

So how do you know when your rotary cutter blade is dull and needs changing?  Basically, it doesn’t cut easily through several layers of fabric.  There are many different rotary cutters on the market today.  Likewise, there are many types and qualities of blades.  Generally speaking, the better quality the blade, the better it will cut and the better it will last. 

However, the tell-tale signs of a dull blade are the same.  If your blade is not cutting sharply and easily through the fabric, it most likely needs changing.  Furthermore, you do not want to keep sawing through the fabric with a dull blade.  This can cause uneven and ragged cuts and can also damage your mat. 

So, you will need to change the blade.  Naturally, you want to do this safely.  No matter which rotary cutter you own, in general the process for changing the blade is the same. 

In this video from National Quilters Circle, ZJ Humbach demonstrates how to do this safely.   

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