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Member since 2/8/09
Posts: 125
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4 Replies
Posted on: 8/18/17 1:38 PM ET
I purchased a Fiskars 45mm rotary cutter over 10 years ago and have been happy with it until lately. I have noticed that the blade wobbles even though the screw is tight. The cuts have been 1/16 inch off in places or a straight cut dips inward in the middle of a cut. I have changed the blade but that didn't change anything. Has the rotary cutter worn out and is it time for a new one? Does the brand of the cutter make a difference in how the cutter cuts? I still have new blades for my Fiskars cutter and would like to be able to use them on whatever I get. Your thoughts, please.
  
Member since 3/24/04
Posts: 26392
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Posted on: 8/18/17 1:52 PM ET
In reply to luvfabric
Is it assembled correctly? Washer right side up?
  
Member since 5/28/11
Posts: 10718
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Posted on: 8/18/17 1:57 PM ET
In reply to luvfabric
I have noticed this on mine as well. The screw comes loose so I guess it might be stripped. I think if you have gotten 10 years out of them that you did really well. I am going to buy another one as I like it better than the other brands I have tried. Was it ok up until recently?
  
Member since 2/8/09
Posts: 125
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Posted on: 8/18/17 2:06 PM ET
Marie367, The cutter has been working good up until lately. I like the feel of the curved handle style and features but after talking to a couple of quilt shops, they recommend the Olfa brand. I'm not too fond of the straight handle on the Olfa and the blades cost a lot more. Any suggestions?
  
Member since 1/29/13
Posts: 1995
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Posted on: 8/18/17 2:12 PM ET
I have a Fiskars rotary cutter that I bought when I first started quilting 17 years ago, but I only use it for things that don't matter (vinyl and such). It did pretty much the same thing yours is doing and the accuracy suffered.

Any 45 mm cutter should use your blades. I have Olfa and Fiskars cutters and use the same blades in both. I buy whichever is cheapest/on sale when I need them.
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Brother Stellaire XJ1, 1034D, Pacesetter Cover Stitch 2340CV
Bernina 770QE Kaffe, 570QE, 435, L890QE

My blog - https://texasquiltgirl.wordpress.com/
  
Member since 4/8/08
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Posted on: 8/18/17 2:34 PM ET
You can get Olfa cutters with the curved handles -- I have 2 (a 45 mm and a 60 mm). In my experience the size of the blade is the important thing, not the manufacturer. I've used both Fiskars and Olfa in my Olfa cutters.

I also have a curved handle Fiskars and I found the same thing as you -- the blade doesn't sit tightly after years of use. My Olfas are still going strong.

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Sheila
"sewing very slowly to fill an empty closet"
Stash Tally: net +46.375 yds (2014 to 2020); net +48.0 (2021); net +57.125 (2022); net +109.875 (2023)- Stash Tally 2024: 77.5 yds out/90.375 yds in (net + 12.875 yds)

2025 Stash Busting:
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Member since 3/8/10
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Posted on: 8/18/17 2:36 PM ET
In reply to luvfabric
I have Fiskars too I like mine. I have 45 mm & also have the new to me pinking blade in another Fiskar's rotary cutter 45 mm. I plan to get another Fiskars too if this one goes. I like the handles, & mine are coastal colors & I kinda like that too.

It might be time for a new cutter for you, if you like Fiskars I would get another one. 10 years is a good life span for a rotary cutter IMO.
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Member since 5/28/11
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Posted on: 8/18/17 3:15 PM ET
In reply to luvfabric
I have an Olfa and I don't like it. It is like everything; we all have our favorites. I say find one you like and buy it. My guess is that both shops sells the Olfa? Nothing wrong with trying to make a sale. If you like the Fiskar, there is nothing wrong with buying another one. If you like the Olfa, buy it and support your favorite shop.
-- Edited on 8/18/17 at 3:20 PM --
  
Member since 5/28/11
Posts: 10718
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Posted on: 8/18/17 3:16 PM ET
In reply to luvfabric
duplicate
-- Edited on 8/18/17 at 3:17 PM --
  
Member since 12/15/02
Posts: 8690
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Posted on: 8/18/17 3:59 PM ET
I guess I'm due for a new one as well. I know I've had mine for about 15 years.
  
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