Best Rotary Cutter

When the rotary cutter was introduced some years ago, it was a game-changer in the sewing world. The circular blade slices through many thicknesses of fabric with little effort.  Whether cutting straight lines or curves, cutting with scissors can be tiring.   The rotary cutter itself is a simple plastic device with a space to attach a round sharp blade.  The design can be straight or curved and which is best, is a personal preference.   Initially there were only a few companies making rotary cutters for many years, such as the well known brands Olfa and Fiskars.  While we do like the products they make, they can be very high priced. There does not seem to be a valid reason for this, as they are just plastic handles. After testing a few of the less expensive cutters and were quite satisfied that for such a simple design they offered much better value.  In our opinion, the blades are the most important part of the cutter.  So let's talk about blades!

Rotary Cutting Blades

What is the best rotary cutting blade?

Rotary cutting blades come is several sizes.  For sewing, the most popular size is 45mm and 60mm for thicker fabrics.  We also carry 28mm cutters as well as replacement blades which some quilters prefer, or for cutting on thin fabric or tighter corners. The best blades are made from Japanese SKS-7 steel, which is very strong and maintains a sharper edge much longer.  Japanese steel contains Manganese and Tungsten, which makes it very hard. 

We tested many brands of rotary cutting blades and discovered that there are some very poor quality ones that barely last one project! Even then, those were not always inexpensive. The Olfa and Fiskars brand seem to be high quality, because they are made with Japanese steel...but are very overpriced. 

Some fabric stores are offering "Titanium" blades at an extremely high price...and we were interested to find out that these are pretty much just advertising hype! The Titanium is actually much softer than steel and is only a coating for esthetics.  It does not even go right down to the edge, and even if it did, it would not improve the longevity of the blade.  Titanium can be useful in some industrial settings where it reduces friction from speed, but I don't know anyone who cuts fabric fast enough to make this a benefit!

We were able to find a reputable company that offers Japanese SKS-7 steel blades, and we were very impressed.  They also offer the blades that have a Titanium coating, but were honest enough to confirm the Titanium is just for looks.  Our source manufactures the best Japanese steel blades in both 45mm and 60mm - no Titanium, nothing fancy, so no extra cost!

We offer the Japanese steel blades in 10 packs, 5 packs, and single packs. Compare to brand name blades and you will be shocked!  

The rotary cutters are just $12 - $15 each depending on size and each come with 1 blade. 

The 45mm is also available as a wavy blade (like the finish you get from pinking shears).

CANADIAN CUSTOMERS ONLY...If you wish to order just blades (NO Cutter) we can ship up to two 5 or 10 blade packages by letter mail for $5.  Sorry, we cannot offer this outside of Canada.  If you wish to use this option, choose "local Pickup" for your shipping address. We will then send you an invoice for shipping, and hand-address the package in a padded envelope. We will NOT refund anyone who fails to follow instructions.  If you have a question, call us!

Our sewing scissors are also made with Japanese steel!  At Discovery Fabrics, we are "cutting edge"!