Caroline’s Preferred Cutting Tools For Sewing and Quilting
Every crafter knows that the right tools can make all the difference, transforming a challenging task into a joyful creation. This list of cutting tools is perfect for get started, replacing, or even upgrading your current tools for all your sewing projects.
Some brands offer fun colors, and there are so many sizes of other tools that it can be overwhelming to know what to choose. Here are my picks and personal preferences based on my many years of sewing and cutting.
Cutting Mat
Cutting mats are a MUST for sewing work. Small ones are nice for traveling to retreats or bringing on vacation, but big ones accommodate all of the different pattern sizes.
I like to have a double sided mat with a light side and a dark side, and having the numbers written outside of the grid helps with ruler placement.
Note: Self-healing means that each cut leaves a very faint (or often invisible) line, rather than a permanent groove or gash. This extends the life of the cutting mat, making it a worth while investment.
Quilting Ruler
Omnigrid and Olfa rulers are my favorite. I like to have clearly marked rulers, that are sturdy and substantial. If you have trouble with your ruler sliding, you can make it non-slip by adding transparent stickers.
These are the sizes that I consider must have for any quilter:
- 6” x 24′‘ (or 6 1/2” x 24”)
- 6” x 12”
- 2 1/2” x 12 1/2”
Rotary Cutter
I love Olfa rotary cutters; they are wonderful! The Standard 45mm cutter is a great size and doesn’t require you to hold the handle while cutting. You will have to expose the blade manually, and then remember to close it when you’re done.
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This 60mm squeeze handle cutter uses a handle to expose the blade. You have to squeeze the handle while you cut. There is also a smaller 28mm rotary cutter which is smaller and lighter. It’s most helpful when you need make small cuts or cut curves.
Caroline Reveal: I have a drawer of all kinds of colors, sizes, and styles of rotary cutter. I love them!!
Thread Snips
Havel or Tula Pink are my favorite brand of thread snips. I like to have a pair at my ironing board and by each machine. A good brand makes a big difference because it maintains its sharp edge longer, and usually has a more substantial action (or feel).
If you don’t use thread snips, you won’t believe how satisfying it is to use them instead of scissors. Trust me!
Scissors
I wrote a review of all the different kinds of scissors and snips for all your needs. It includes links and recommendations based on my professional experience.
Note: If you want to keep your snips on a handy lanyard, try this magnetic retractable lanyard. There is also a scissor holder that you can stick on your machine (or desk) to keep your scissors off your cutting surface.
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Disclosure: some of my posts contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of those links I may receive a small commission, so thank you for supporting SewCanShe when you shop! All of the opinions are my own and I only suggest products that I actually use. 🙂