Do you remember life before rotary cutters?
I do!
The first bed sized quilt that I pieced and quilted in the early 1980s was a log cabin. I received a gifted box of scraps from a neighbor. I used an old yard stick and a pencil to draw parallel lines on my fabric, cut them out with an 8” pair of old dress making shears. I still have this log cabin quilt, but what a CHORE that was!
Then rotary cutters entered my life and there was no turning back. By far I think the invention of the rotary cutter is the greatest tool known to quilters. How many of us would NOT be quilting today if it weren’t for the rotary cutter!
And this is where Olfa comes in.
It’s the 35th anniversary of the event that made OLFA a well known word in every quilter’s vocabulary. And we are celebrating with a giveaway!
Rotary cutters don’t work by themselves – they require a partner – the Olfa Mat!
Happy Birthday, Olfa!
To celebrate, we are drawing for one lucky winner of the olfa gift pack shown here!
Leave me a comment telling me what year you first discovered rotary cutters! ((And how many of us have scars to prove it?? If you have a scar from a mishap…tell me that too! LOL!))
We’ll be drawing for this winner on Sunday Evening, July 20th! I’ll be back home from the cabin after dropping Mickey back at the airport!
Leave your comment in the comments section below on this post only. I will be using the random number generator to draw our lucky winner. If you are signing as anonymous, please leave your name and email address or we will have to draw again if we cannot contact you. That also goes for those of you who don’t show your email address in your blogger or google profile. No contact, no win!
If you are reading this post after clicking a link in facebook or some blog reader services, you need to open this page in a new browser window so you are directly on the page to be able to leave your comment. It may be better to just come to a real computer to leave your comment. Good luck!
So what’s been going on here?
Lisa and Mickey are in the house!
I got busy sewing super secret stuff!!
And there were lots of yummies to keep our sewing strength up!
More photos to come ---
Love from Buck Mountain!
992 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 601 – 800 of 992 Newer› Newest»Hi Bonnie,
I remember my first quilt or two was made with templates, mid 1980's. There were many pillow tops because the projects were so daunting. It may have been 1989/1990 when I bought my first rotary cutter, what a difference! Fortunately I do not have any scars, a few cuts here and there, but not to cause scarring.
lenore.e.wagner@gmail.com
I have been quilting for 14 years and love your products. Happy Birthday Olfa
I started quilting because my mother-in-law decided we needed a hobby. My first quilt has gone to quilt heaven. It was made from EVERYTHING! Polyester blends, eyelet, drapery fabric an old dust ruffle... We traced around our templates with an ink pen and cut them out with a paper of Gingher shears. We definitely learned from our mistakes. I was introduced to rotary cutting because of my loving husband. While wandering the aisles of a big box store looking for a Christmas present for me he found a ruler, rotary cutter and mat packaged together just for Christmas! I haven't looked back since. He had no idea he would be creating a monster!
Started quilting 10 yrs ago and my first quilt class my teacher told us she would fine us $50 if we didnt close our cutter! So a few years ago I did that, went to grab cutter and gotna nice cut on finger!
Hi Bonnie,
I watched my Mom quilt without rotary cutters in the late 80's. The process seemed too labor intensive to interest me at the time. Then we started going to quilt show together in the mid-nineties and WOW, did Olfa make a sea change in my attitude! Finally got converted into being a quilter myself, and would really enjoy winning the prize package. Laura H. rebusrebus@verizon.net
Can't remember when I started using a rotary cutter, but I still have my first one. Too many mishaps to talk about, embarrassing.
I can always use another rotary cutter and mat!
dtell@bgsu.edu
I made my first baby quilt when I was 19 using scissors and a sewing machine (no 1/4" foot) I had no clue what I was doing but got it done. It was several years later..maybe even a decade before I thought about quilts again. I took my first class in the mid 90's and have not looked back. I have had a few oopsie moments with my cutter..but haven't lost more than a bit of skin. Thank Goodness.. I do wish I still had that first quilt though..
I got my cutter sometime in the 80's. I did not quilt at the time, so I used it to cut out clothing. I was told to use it with a cutting board. Did not know you had to use a special cutting board, just used a plastic cutting board I had for cooking! lol I have nicked myself a few times when I forgot and left it open and then reached for something near it, but no major incidents as yet. Hopefully never!
I probably bought my first rotary cutter in early to mid 80's. I actually used it more for cutting out clothing than for quilts, but my first quilt was Elinor Burns' diamond log cabin tree skirt. Love rotary cutters and mats!
HI,Yes love Olfa products and have quilted+sewn with rotary cutters for about 30 years! No cuts,just accurate piecing!
CONGRATS OLFA!
Thanks for sharing!
msstitcher1214@gmail.com
Happy birthday! I started quilting around 2005. One of my first quilts was a flannel rag Christmas tree. Alone one night my rotary cutter jumped the ruler and took off part of my pointer finger. Er visit and no quilting for a couple of weeks. Still love to quilt. Judy Ziegler, judyjanome@yahoo.com
I got my first cutter in the 80's. I did not quilt then, so I used it to cut out clothing. I was told to use it with a cutting board, but was not told that it had to be a special board. I used a plastic cutting board that you use for the kitchen! LOL I haven't had a major incident, just a few nicks when I forgot and left the blade open then reached for something near it.
It wasn't until 1990 or 1991 that I was convinced that rotary cutters were not just a fad or passing gimmick. I can be pretty stubborn, lol. I haven't looked back either and my sewing shears are safely tucked away in a drawer with my pinking shears!
would love to have new ones, thanks
I started quilting when my daughter Wendy was 6 years old - only I didn't know I was quilting! LOL I wanted to make her a special skirt and top for nice wear and had a green velvet dress that had to have been bought when I was still flat chested! Anyway - I took that apart, found a lot of other velvet (and velveteen - I didn't know the difference then!) and made her a skirt. I didn't really have enough of one fabric for a top - so I used a little of this and some of that - ie, Patchwork and made her a cute vest. I must have gotten carried away with the idea of connecting one scrap to another because suddenly I had extra and wanted to make a Texas star - in velvets and velveteens, no less! Out of diamond shapes! (no one told me that Y seams were hard - so I did them! Not GREAT - but done!)
As for using the Olfa - about 1984 or 1985 I bought my first rotary cutter - didn't use it however for about a year - and then fell totally in love with the rotary cutter (AND mat) and wished I had used it all along!
Honestly - if it hadn't been for the rotary cutter and mat - I seriously doubt if I would be quilting today - or at least not nearly as much!
Helen
momschoolma@yahoo.com
The lady that taught be to quilt insisted I use templates and draw them on the back of the fabric. They had to be cut with scissors. I was so excited to get a rotary cutter and mat. My life hasn't been the same since! Thanks for the great giveaway.
I was introduced to Olfa before I was a quilter, back in 1978, when I worked at Tandy Leather Co. They were part of our inventory and I thought "a round knife? that's crazy!" I didn't get one for quilting until the 1990's, and then thought "holy moly, what I've been missing all these years!" Only one tiny cut, so sharp didn't even know I had done it until I saw the blood..so now when I teach I ram the mantra "ALWAYS close the blade cover!" :) Chris Gray chrissybluebird@hotmail.com
my first attempt at quilting was 30 years ago and I cut with a scissor also. I started my new quilting hobby here in TN in 2003 and that is when I first saw or used a rotary cutter. Now I have a studio cutter too!
It discovered the rotary cutter in the mid 80's at my first quilting class. I just love olfa products and just bought a pair of applique scissors that are fantastic. No cuts here, I have always respected a rolling blade.
Hmmmmm.... I think it was in the mid-1990s. No scars though (fortunately).
I made my first quilt in 1976! I hand traced around a cardboard square and scissor cut each blessed piece.
I didn't get my first rotary cutter and mat until 1994. Why did I wait so long????
Happy Birthday Olfa! Thanks for making life so much easier!
Happy Birthday to my favorite quilt making helpers!
Emily in Albuquerque
emquilter@comcast.net
I played with a rotary cutter about 10 years ago...didn't really like it....BUT then I discovered quilting !!! I have several in easy reach. The kiddies even know to not touch.
I remember the cardboard templates (cut from a cereal box) which my grandma gave me to make my first quilt. It was probably the mid-80s when I finally bought a rotary cutter. Still have it today, but have gone through two cutting mats since then.
Email. Mcrobinson3@suddenlink.net
Life without a rotary cutter I could not imagine. No one in my family quilted so I am sort of self taught and did not start until rotary cutters were our most important tool. Cannot imagine before... WOW...Carolyn
I believe it was around 1988 or so that I got my first rotary cutter and mat and ruler. I had learned to quilt the old-fashioned way at a little general store/fabric store in 1987. My grandmother still used scissors and cardboard templates. I remember cutting a box full of squares for her with the rotary cutter for her nine-patch quilts that she made until she was well about 102 years old. She quit because of macular degeneration and her stitches weren't good (to her standard!) anymore.
Rosalie rjoehnk@txwinet.com
Happy Birthday Olfa. I got my first one in early 90's. It wasn't long after I started that I cut a slit into my left thumb. I thought it was out of the way but NOT:( I now double check my finger location every time! Thanks Bonnie for being so thoughtful!
I bought my first one in the 80's and I still have it. I have also cut off several of my fingerprints over the years LOL! I always wondered if my fingerprinted would return to normal
I started quilting in 1998 at the ripe old age of 51. I wish I would have started much earlier. Rotary cutters were already in. Fortunately I have not had any mishaps so far.
Annemarie from NSW Australia
asmithers@rocketmail.com
Oh goodness, rotary cutters are such an integral tool to my mixed media art, using them on fabric, paper, cork, screening, anything that needs cuttin' that I can't recall a time without them......... funny, right? But no matter how often I use them on any variety of materials, I'm reminded that they are only as accurate and safe in proportion to the attention I pay them...... :)
I saw rotary cutters for the first time around 2001 when a quilt shop opened in my community. I took a sampler class and they used a rotary cutter to cut the fabric I chose for my quilt. I use mine all the time now!
tstanulis@verizon.net
Hello Bonnie,
My first introduction to Olfa rotary cutters was in 1991. I was making Native American crafts and the rotary cutter was a trooper when it came to cutting leather hides for projects. I no longer do Native American crafts and I started quilting in 2006. I still have my original Olfa rotary cutter and use it often. Thanks for all you do.
Sara Stockton
momstockton02@yahoo.com
I retired in 1997 from teaching and started watching wonderful quilt shows on PBS with Alex, Shar,and a couple of others I can't r emember.
I saw them using the rotary and bought a set that contained the cutter, ruler, and mat. And, yes, I still have them! Before that, it was the cardboard and shears. About a month ago, I had my first accident. Not big, but enough that I needed a bandaid! jennieb@bex.net
I discovered rotary cutters sometime around 1988-89. Used pencil and sandpaper templates and scissors before that. Sliced off the tip of my finger once and dropped an open cutter on my foot!
I received my first rotary cutter and mat from my mom in 2007 when I FINALLY agreed to join her lifelong love of quilting. Glenda maybedeed@hotmail.com
I think I cut myself WHILE I was taking my new rotary cutter out of the package! But it sure has made things much easier, that's for sure!
I have been quilting for a little over 3 years and learned to rotary cut when I decided to make a quilt in a magazine. Completely self-taught I made a cut little baby quilt which is still a top.
It was probably 1979 or 1980. I was teaching and designing canvas embroidery (aka needlepoint) and cutting those heavy threads of needlepoint canvas was really killing my hands. Heard about this new fangled rotary cutter. Got one, cutting mat and ruler and never picked up a pair of scissors to cut out pieces of canvas for class kits or my projects again.
I started quilting in 1980...wooden ruler and scissors! Rotary cutter changed how I made my quilts. I was teaching how to use a rotary cutter to a sewing class and ran over my own thumb!
1990, made a log cabin for one of my favorite nieces! No scars yet!
In 2012, I went into my first quilt shop and was instantly transported into a magical dimension. After purchasing a rotary cutter and mat, pattern and fabric, I discovered ( at age 65 ) what I really want to be when I grow up. A QUILTER ! ;-)
Connie Howard
hamwife@com-pair.net
Bought my first rotary cutter and mat in 1989. Have bought several mats, rotary cutters and rulers over the years of quilting. Thanks Bonnie for everything you give to the quilting community.
Good question. I had been toying with the idea of quilting for awhile, but never did anything about it. Too busy homeschooling my daughter. And then one day, I just did it. Probably around 12 years ago. And of course, rotary cutters were already available, so away I went.
Just started quilting last year and learned how to use the the rotary cutter. Love it. Sure wish it had been around back when I began cutting many years ago. It makes life so much easier. Love your quilting blog.
I've only quilted using rotary cutters but have blocks from my aunt that she cut with scissors. That may be why they haven't been used yet.
My first rotary cutter was a gift from my sister after I created a quilt using my Grandmother's dresses. I have two scars on my index finger. Thanks for the chance to win.
Robin
nivens_r@bellsouth.net
Not sure of the exact date, but it was probably in the '80s. My first quilts were traced around cardboard templates & cut with fabric-only scissors. I still have those templates!
1985 was the year I bought my first Olfa cutter and mat, to cut out flannel pajamas for my twins.
I received my first Olfa cutter and mat from my Mom in mid-80's. My first quilting experience was a sampler wall hanging taught by my Mom at LQS. We used sandpaper for our templates.
Annette DeBose
Debose.quilts@yahoo.com
I started quilting in the early 90's. The last 10 years I've really gotten into it! But, I did have a rotary cutter pretty early on. I introduced my oldest sister to them, too. I can't imagine not having them. It cuts done on so much time! I have been kind of dangerous with them, though. I about cut the tip of my pinky finger off one time. The rotary cutter slipped. I try to be more careful now because I'm also showing my 10 year old daughter how to quilt.
Jennifer in Illinois
My first quilt was a 4 patch that I used scissors to cut. It was in the mid 70's. I didn't learn about rotary cutters until I was trying to get donations for a silent auction. A local quilt shop donated a kit and I had to pick it up. I took a basic quilting class and haven't looked back. If I were to win this set, I would give it to my 11 yr old daughter who is learning to sew and quilt. Thanks for all that you do for us. Becky in Greencastle PA. clarkrl2000@yahoo.comm
Thanks for sharing this amazing gift.
Happy 25th Birthday Olfa! I learned about rotary cutters while watching Elenaor Burns. I have always used rotary cutters, but since I know cutting patterns with scissors is pretty rough for a girl with RA. But hey I do and accomplish no matter how long it took. My next cutter will be an. ergo one. Hopefully it will ease up some of the pain in my hands n wrist when cutting fabrics for quilts. Thanks for a chance at winning! Happy Quilting!
I started quilting early in 1980, but I didn't know about rotary cutters until about 1984 or perhaps 1985. One of my brothers (whose wife was "crafty") said I should get "one of those pizza cutter things" and I replied that "I don't do gadgets"! Eventually he bought me one, but somehow didn't think to get me a mat. I had to make a separate trip out to buy a mat after I discovered what my new "pizza cutter thing" did to my dining room table!! It's all history now ... and somehow, I don't have any scars to prove it, YET!
I didn't start piecing quilts until the 90's and learned the hard way to make sure my best battenburg lace table cloth was put safely away before cutting on my small cutting mat. I did end up using iron on mending tape on that favorite table cloth but it sure was disappointing to see it each time it was on the table. I still have that table cloth!!LOL
I don't remember the year I got my first rotary cutter. It was too long ago. But I know that I used it so much that I broke it and had to buy a second one (which I still use). And then I bought a different kind so that I had one that cut like pinking shears.
I believe I got my first rotary cutter and began my quilting adventures in 2001. Quilting sure is different from making your own clothes and cutting with scissors. Thankfully, I have never (to date) had a rotary cutter mishap so no scars. Hoping I never will either. What a great giveaway.
I got one of the original olfa cutters in the early 80s. I fell in love and bought one for my mom which scared her at first but after a couple of years, she finally tried it and loves it too. Never looked back after that.
Hi Bonnie, I got my first rotary cutter and mat for Christmas from my husband in about 1994. I was making the kids clothes then. It sat dormant for a few years before I started to quilt. Making up for it now :)
I bought my first olfa in 1998. I didn't use it for a long time tho. I kept telling myself I was going to start quilting. I finally did when I joined a quilt guild with a great group of women who shared their knowledge with me.
Sharon
sklattis@yahoo.com
I don't remember ever quilting without a rotary cutter. I was into making clothes before I found quilting. I can happily say I have not had any cutter accidents.
I started using rotary cutter in 1996 when I made a baby quilt for first grand child. I cut index finger really bad and learned a deeper respect for the bade after that.
I was so happy to use my first Olfa cutter! Much better than tracing cardboard templates !
I bought my rotary cutter when I started quilting in 2003 and have only cut a small portion of a fingernail to date...knock on wood I do not ever draw blood!!
Gee, I think it was around 1988; I still have the first one. Luckily, no scars, but I sure have gotten cut from time to time.
My First quilt was a log cabin made with templates and scissors many years ago. discovered olfa cutters soon after and have used Olfa products ever since.
jennycam1@bigpond.com
I don't remember when I bought my first rotary cutter. It seems like I have had them forever. Couldn't get as much done as I do without them (I have several). Thankfully, I have never had an accident with them. Thanks for the opportunity to win, and Happy Birthday, Olfa! I love their cutters!
Jeanine
twowaals@mahaska.org
I would not be quilting without a rotary cutter, I made over ten before I found out about rotaries. I will never go back. Thank you Olfa for them and all your wonderful products and free patterns.
I have only been quilting since 2003 so have never had the pleasure of cutting without a rotary cutter. However, previous to that I did garment sewing for years cutting without a rotary cutter. Happy Birthday Olfa...we cannot live without you. Thank you for this giveaway.
Ritaanneh@yahoo.com
Like so many, I started with cardboard and scissors. It must have been about 2000. That's when I got hooked on quilting. Can't imagine life without rotary cutters. Would love to win. A quilter can never have enough tools.
I started out with graphing patterns,making cardboard templates, and the wonder of wonders(and for my budget a wish item)Gingher scissors that would cut several layers of fabric accurately. I got my first rotary cutter as a birthday present as soon as the local Joann's put them on sale! I still have it.rjc2cam(at)gmail(dot)com
I made my first quilt prior to rotary cutters using applique. Loved rotary cutters when I really started quilting in 2001. I have several small scars by my right pinkie from reaching to grab an open cutter. I am good maybe 99% of the time. Thanks Bonnie for all that you do to inspire us.
Dale
I bought my first cutter and mat to use in garment construction...yikes what a nightmare... love them today'
Holly aka scarlet3894@yahoo.com
Remember when I first bought a rotary cutter, too old to remember, but, sure am glad it came into existence. I have been quilting since I was 12. My rotary wound was a nice slice across my hand between the thumb and 1st finger, never even felt it but boy did it bleed.
Well I just don't know when I start using an Olfa cutter. Seems like forever. But just a few days ago at our guild meeting a person at my table asked how many rotary cutters we each had. She said she had 14! She does not need to win this giveaway. Me, I only have 2. Most of my mishaps involve acrylic rulers!
I have just purchased my first one! Excited to start !
In 1986, I took a quilting class which used "It's Okay to Sit on my Quilt Book" by Eleanor Burns. I bought my rotary cutter and mat then. I loved both. No accidents for me so far! Thanks for the opportunity!
Hi Bonnie,
Thanks for the giveaway!
I had been quilting for years when they came out and bought one the first time I ever saw it. It did change my life. Up to then I had used a cardboard/cereal box as a template and had moved up to using the plastic lid of "Crisco" or butter tub. My scissors were big and heavy and never cut a straight line. I remember cutting out as much as I could and my hand aching with a red ring around my thumb. I still have that same cutter and many newer ones. It is marked for paper and has had many,many blades over the years. The last quilt I made without it I finished in 1978 and you can really tell a difference.
Thanks for taking me down memory lane!
Kathy
I resisted rotary cutters for awhile but I'm soooo glad I'm not using scissors and cardboard templates any more!! Finally broke down and got a cutting mat, rotary cutter and 6 X 12 around 98. changed my life and I've never looked back!
Whoever invented the rotary was a genious! In 1994, a neighbor introduced me to the art of quilting. She went shopping with me and told me what I needed to purchase. If I had to cut it out as my grandmother did, I don't know if I would be quilting today. So thankful for technology, patterns, and all the wonderful fabric we have today! Emily
Can't remember for sure, but I think I got my first cutter in the mid 90's. I had previously made a couple quilts with cardboard templates. At the risk of jinxing myself, I can say I've never gotten more than a slight nick from my rotary cutter.
I'm a new quilter so I just discoverd the Olfa rotary cutter and other tools this year. So the only scar I have is a sewing machine needle through my finger...ouch! How'd I do that?????
I received my first rotary cutter set as a gift in the early 1990s. The first thing I made with it was a patchwork Christmas tree skirt. I did slice off a bit of my left index finger one time a few years later. It's hard to drive yourself to the emergency room with one hand wrapped in a towel and held up high in the air!
I started quilting in Feb. 2002. Bought my first mat and cutter and made a baby quilt.
I am so thankful for rotary cutters, mats and rulers. They have made life so much easier since I discovered them in 1998.
Happy Birthday, Olfa!!
myhre.s@hotmail.com
I started quilting in the early 90's so that's when I bought my first Olfa mat and rotary cutter. Knock on wood ... no injuries.
My first Olfa rotary cutter and mat were purchased in 1983-84 right after I started quilting and had used cardboard templates and dressmaking shears. I was sure there had to be a better way.
Barb
bns281@suddenlink.net
I'm pretty much a late bloomer when it comes to rotary cutters. I first started using one about 10 years ago when I decided to learn to MACHINE piece. Like you, I haven't looked back ... although I still enjoy hand piecing & embroidery!
I don't remember when I got my first rotary cutter and mat. But it must have been in the 80's. But I hate to say that
last year I got a new mat to replace it with. I know I needed one before then but it seemed to be okay. I can see such a difference on the new one I wish I had done it sooner. Thanks for the great blog.
I can't remember exactly when I started quilting but I remember watching Georgia Bonesteel on PBS and knew I needed to do that! I do remember cutting out my first quilt pieces with scissors and didn't really discover the rotary cutter until around the mid-1980s after I graduated college in 1983. It was an Olfa!! I still have my first cutter - many blades later of course.
Liz
Aiken, SC
I bought my first rotary cutter in either 1984 or 1985 in an adorable cross stitch/quilt shop in Hattiesburg, MS! It was the first true quilt shop I had been and I was absolutely hooked that day. I had been cutting squares out for a Trip Around the World quilt using a template and scissors - I brought those tools home after that trip and was absolutely blown away how quickly I cut the rest of those squares out! Needless to say, NO MORE TEMPLATES FOR ME!!!
Thanks for the awesome giveaway!
Bought my first rotary cutter in the early 80's. What a great invention.
I bought my first mat in 1979... it wasn't Olfa, but when I bought an Olfa, I knew I had traded up!. Happy birthday Olfa!
I got my olfa cutter when they first came out. I remember it so well as it was my birthday and I was given the afternoon off. When I left work I headed to the quilt shop and they were giving a class on how to use the newest tools. What excitement they caused. Naturally I had to have them and I have been using them ever since. They are the best tools ever made.
champagnebubbles@shaw.ca
Bought my first rotary cutter in the early 80's. What a great invention.
I bought my first cutter in the mid 80's.
I bought my first ritary cutter and mat in 2010 when I started quilting again. I had made a number of quilts with my mother as late as the mid 1980s and we used the cardboard templates, traced them onto fabric with a pencil and hand cut them with scissors. I got away from sewing and quilting as my children grewvand inreentered the work force. However, in 2010 I was forced inyo an early retirement and needed something to occupy my brain and my hands. I was amazed at how quickly I was able to do otherwise tedious cutting with my rotary cutter. Thanks Olfa!
My friend had a rotary cutter, so when she made me make my first quilt, I used her rotary cutter. Smooth as silk! Yes, I had a boo boo earlier this year. I sliced off the side of my left index finger, for which I had to go to the hospital to stop the bleeding. Some has grown back so all was not lost! LOL!
I started my first quilt around 2001 (finished 2 years ago -- haha!), and that is when I bought a rotary cutter and mat. I started quilting in earnest about 3 years ago and still use that cutter (the mat got warped and, sadly, is useless for cutting).
I don't remember quilting without one. I'm a gadget girl.
I have had mine for so long I don't remember when I got my first rotary cutter. I do remember it was a 28mm and I still have it, Mostly it's used to cut paper. I prefer to use a 45 mm now. Very lucky I have never cut myself, knock on wood! Hope I never do.
Bonnie,
For years I would not use a rotary cutter - but when I tried it about 15 years ago, I've never looked back. I make quilts with it, I cut t-shirts to make crocheted rag rugs, and I cut plastic shopping bags to crochet tote bags. One day while cutting plastic bags, my cutter ended up on top of the ruler instead of beside it, and I cut at an angle right through my thumb nail - down towards the base. I had to glue my thumbnail back together with nail glue, to keep it from flipping up every time I used my thumb! It was funny (and not!) at the same time, but the nail finally grew out and I went right back to using the rotary cutter after bandaging my thumb that day. Have a great day!
It's funny that you mention the log cabin being your first quilt. That was mine too and the intro to rotary cutter. And guess what? I still have my original olfa from early 1990's and works just as good as the first time I used it. And my olfa mat, I still have but it needs replacing, got 20 years out of it!!! Hope to win the set, it'll be great to have in my new workshop we're building. Thanks Bonnie!!!! reaweb@windstream.net
I discovered the blades before the cutter when I found some of them in a Sky City clearance bin for 25 cents a piece! Needless to say I bought a few of them and then tried to find the Olfa cutter to go with those new blades. Some time in the late 1980's I believe. I would love to win the gift pack-thanks for the chance.
I remember reading about a rotary cutter in a quilt magazine. I went to the fabric store immediately to find one! I bought the cutter and a small mat. The store employee said I needed the new ruler to use the cutter so I bought my first acrylic ruler then too. I cut on my coffee table on my knees. Then bought a cutting table, then a bigger mat, then more rulers.....well you know how it goes.
I bought my first rotary cutter in the mid 80's. Need a new one again and would love to win.
I cut out a quilt for DH in 1983 using scissors and templates. Fast forward to granddaughter in 1995 and I discovered rotary cutters shortly thereafter. What fun to spend time with Mickey and Lisa! It doesn't get any better.
I remember buying my first mat, ruler and cutter to cut fabric for my Trip around the world quilt, but I do not remember the year. It was at least 20 years ago.
I got my first Olfa in the 80's. I saved a long time for it. We had 5 children (I think I planned longer for my Olfa than our children.)The Olfa and the children were equally magical. Thanks for the giveaway
Happy,happy birthday, Olfa. You revolutionized quilting!
Nightnursedeb@hotmail.com
I started taking quilting classes about 1988, but I think I had a rotary and skinny mat before that. I still have both, but neither have a date--like a Singer.
I bought my first Olfa cutter, mat and ruler when I took lessons in about 1992. I didn't quilt for most of the years between then and a couple of years ago. Since rediscovering quilting I have acquired several rotary cutters, with my favourite being the pretty Splash
Probably got my first rotary cutter about 1984. That's the year my son was born & I started quilting again. I gave it up once as too time consuming. What a difference the cutter made! Made oodles of quilts since & just gave a grand-nephew his first quilt from me. Now on to his daddy's Star Trek fabrics quilt! None of them would have been done w/o rotary cutters!
I first learned to quilt with cardboard templates and stitching by hand. It wasn't until we moved to CA in the 80's that I bought my first rotary cutter. What an improvement.
Have more than one rotary cutter so that I can cut on more than one table! Can one have too many?
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
I got my first Olfa and mat in the mid 80s, my mat is so old it doesn't have markings on it and the price tag of 14.99 is still on it. I have gotten more mats and cutters, but both of the original are still in use.
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
Hmm. I started using a rotary cutter when I felt I could splurge on "me".....so after the kids grew up :)
Happy anniversary Olfa
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
Oh my - that was so loooong ago, bought my first Olfa cutter back in the 90's - I think. Still have that little thing, it has a spacer thingy on it to add to the pattern when cutting out pieces of clothing.
Didn't start quilting till about 2002 and have really been lucky - no cuts yet and hope not ever. Couldn't do without a cutter and mat!!!!!!!
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
I think I got my first one about 20 years ago when my daughter was a baby. I made a baby quilt and some wall hangings for a craft show. I started using it a lot more about 10 years ago when I took a wearable art class at our community college.
Wow how nice of you and Olfa for the give away. When I wanted to start quilting I bought a kit with fiskers cutting tool and mat about 20-25 years ago. Some time after I bought an Olfa and I love this brand of cutter.so far I have not injured myself with a cutter, nor have I sewing machine sewed my finger.....yet.
These are such common mishaps it is a matter of when it will happen rather than if it will
Colleen
Oh are we dating ourselves! Mid-80's for me too. Couldn't do without them now!
Marilyn
I love Olfa mats; they're the only ones I use! Happy birthday, Olfa!
My first Olfa rotary cutter and mat were in the early 1990's. I have since accumulated other sizes of Olfa cutters and mats. I use them all! Oh, I have a small scar on the back of my left hand... :0)
My first experience with a rotary cutter was Christmas of '92 I believe. My husband gave me a mat and rotary cutter as a gift. So glad they were invented!
I probably learned of rotary cutters in 2003 or 2004. Had an aunt-in-law teaching me quilting about then. Haven't hurt myself on one yet. A sharp blade is less likely to harm you than a dull one as you can cut the fabric easier & without using as much strength.
I always assume you can see my email address on my blogger account but in case not it is k2sattlers at comcast dot net
I, too, used a yardstick and/or ruler and scissors when I made my first two baby quilts in the 70's. One was made of squares cut from red and blue bandanas and the other was pastel ginghams. Life got complicated (divorce, etc.) and I didn't quilt again until I retired in 2001. My first new purchase was a cutting mat and Olfa rotary cutter. Luckily, I've been very careful and haven't had any accidents.
I bought my first rotatry cutter in 1989 and a mat to go with it. I have no scars or stories to tell about using it. I bought my first Olfa rotary cutter and mat in 1990 after taking a class at the local quilt shop. Who knew there was such a difference in cutters and mats?? Well, I didn't; but, I sure was a fast learner!
We moved into our first home in December of 1989. I borrowed (stole) my mothers old Singer bought a quilt block kit and did my best. Within 6 mths I bought my first Olfa rotary cutter and matching green mat, I haven't looked back. I don't know if I would LOVE quilting as much if I had to cut my fabric with a scissor. Happy 35th Birthday Olfa!
No scares to show and tell, but have had cuts.
I remember using templets with graph paper,in the 80's good foundation of understanding how to divide block measurements,. Then came back to quilting in the late 90's and you can't get me to make any now with rotary cutting now in place
I would say 1989.i am left handed and had struggled with finding good leftie scissors, so the cutter was a godsend.i also had some acrylic strips before the good rulers came out.
I remember cutting my first quilt out with scissors. OMG, the thought of having to do that now gives me shivers. All the wonky cuts no matter how hard you tried to keep the scissors straight.
connie b
cbquilts345@yahoo.com
About 1994 when I joined a guild. Angelia in GA
Thanks to Olfa for this giveaway.
My first quilt was with scissors and templates, back in the 1970's, I continued that way till around 2005 when I dove into the rotary cutter and mats, always wonder where I'd have been if I took the plunge earlier! I'm hoping my daughter will take up my love of quilting, if not her, maybe my grand kids.
My first rotary cutter was 1994 when I made a quilt for my granddaughter. What a difference it made. Happy Birthday Olfa. I would love to win those great items since my mat and cutter are worn out.
Phyllis Arnold
paballoon@aol.com
Hi Bonnie!
I think I bought my first rotary cutter in 1999. Before that all I had done was a denim rag quilt. Glad we have rotary cutters now!
Judy
djtyer@mchsi.com
In September of 1990 I was in nursing school and renting a basement suite in my friend Joy's home. She had started a job in a Quilt/Craft store and came home one day and said "Look what I learned today!" We spent the next few hours engrossed in learning how to use a rotary cutter and strip piecing along with Mary Ellen Hopkin's book "It's OK If You Sit On my Quilt". The beginning of it all for both of us!Debby rsvp15@shaw.ca
I started quilting after taking a beginner class at Country Threads at Garner. Bought my first cutter and mat in about 1985. No I have not had any major injuries, only minor grazes. Probably would not have picked up the hobby if I had to cut everything out with scissors. Have all the cutter sizes and I think all the ruler and several mats. But still getting more. Take care, from northern Iowa.
Bought my first one and it sat in the packaging for two years because I was afraid to use it. Took my first class at the local fabric shop and have not looked back. Best thing since sliced bread.
Donna in HOT BURNING OREGON
I first used a rotary cutter in 2005. At the time I did manage to cut my hand but not badly. About two weeks ago I had a major mishap resulting in six stitches in my finger and it is still healing although the stitches are removed. Just waiting to regain the feeling in that finger.
took me forever to get to the bottom, omg,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,700 something already,,,,,,,,,,,geddie up and gooooooooooooooooooooooo, lolol,,,,,,,tks bonnie,,,,,,,,,
I discovered them in the 90's before I took a quilting class. It was in a package at Costco with a ruler, cutter and mat. I bought it because I hoped to quilt someday. That didn't happen till I bought a Bernina and my wonderful salesman paid for my first class! I love that guy!
I've been using rotery cutters since I've strarted quilting in 98.
Linda
linquilt74@yahoo.com
I bought my first rotary cutter in 1990 and made my first Around the World quilt, an amazing invention indeed. Thanks Olfa
I don't remember specifically when I got a rotary cutter but remember when I cut nylon net for my aunt. I cut 25 yards and used a rotary cutter; she had been using scissors. I got it cut much sooner than she did.
I cut my finger about two weeks ago; I knew better.
I love my Olfa mats and rotary cutter. I am so glad that I have had no mishaps with them so far.
Happy Birthday Olfa!!!
My first rotary cutter was acquired I think around 1989. I had just gotten interested in all the quilt and sewing program on television at the time and saw on then. So of course out I went and purchase my first rotary cutter. Now I have all sizes and styles. Could not live with out one now. I have been very lucky so far and have never cut myself but have run off the rulers edge and cutter my fabric off it's supposed cutting line.
Thanks for the give-a-way.
Happy quilting,
Jean Keeter Lake Lure, N.C.
What a fun give a way! Luckily I don't have any scares from my cutter, but I have cut myself when I was changing the blade. As for your yummies, have you tried the sea salt caramel? Oh my goodness!
Tracy
tracy@nwctv.com
I think I got my first one in 1984. Can't remember for sure. I was introduced to cutting mats when my husband brought home some mats that were being thrown out by a large defense contractor. They were for use by graphic designers using exacto knifes.
I think it was the early 80's when I first got my rotary cutter and mat. I was a little afraid of it at first. lol
I have to admit I didn't ever cut myself with it until a few years ago , I had a new blade and just wasn't paying attention. oops..
Now I wonder how I ever did without it. I often wonder how many more quilts our grandmothers would have made if they had a rotary cutter.
Great giveaway.
Happy Birthday to Olfa.
cheers
maggie
maggiemine42@gmail.com
I started quilting in 1982 after I finished my Masters Degree as a reward for two long years of studying. I can't remember using a rotary cutter back then so I must have cut the fabric out with scissors. I would really like to win a new rotary cutter and mat. My cutting would improve with these two new items.
thymewpvp@verizon.net (Pat P)
I got my rotary cutter in 1990, I can't live without it. Happy Birthday Olfa.
Veronica Cox
vlcox@live.com
I got my first ruler and rotary cutter around 1985. It looked dangerous but was so accurate, who cared! I learned early to wear a glove when cutting so I am scar free.
Jeane
rayalbinet@sasktel.net
Bonnie the year I discovered they made an instrument that cuts fabric ( WHAT ARE YOU KIDDING-IT CUTS FABRIC?!!!!!,WHERE DO THEY SELL IT?) was 1986,no more cardboard templates for me :)
As for mishaps, I ran over my finger with a needle on my Brothers Pacesetter, needle through the finger made me a lot more cautious, so...NO rotary mishaps for me.
It was in the late 80's for me. Right after I took my first quilting class (Quilt in A Day).
My first quilt was about 1990, so we already had rotary cutters. You are right...probably wouldn't have been a quilter without them!
I too made my first quilt without benefit of the Olfa system; used cereal boxes to make the template, in 1983. So got liberated sometime after that. You're right, I probably would not be quilting now if it were not for these fabulous tools.
I remember cutting the pointer finger on my left hand, and it was so quick and painless - surprised it had happened and then at how much it bled! I'm more careful now tho I do occasionally trim my nails with it!!!
I don't remember life before rotary cutters! Tee Hee I do remember sewing as a child with out them, but I have had them since I have been quilting! What a great invention!
Kathy
knk1985@hotmail.com
I discovered the rotary cutter about 2002, and my original rotary cutter is retired, I have the ones that have the handles you squeeze to release the blade, now. The last time I used the original one, I left it open and it fell on my foot, naturally blade down... yow!
I remember taking a class in 2001 and learning how to use a rotary cutter. Could sure use a new cutter and mat
Carol. cgouveia@q.com
Let me try this again...My first quilt was about 1990, so we already had rotary cutters. You are right, without it I would not have been a quilter!
SueSharp
mssharp1@yahoo.com
I took my first quilting classes in 1986. Of course on the list to buy was a rotary cutter.
I started quilting in 1976, and probably bought my first rotary cutter in about 1980. The cutting edges had no markings, but were just acrylic straight edges in various sizes. I'm so glad we have rotary cutters and mats, and all sizes and kinds of rulers and templates to cut with! Sharon - sjsauser@gmail.com
Wow...I think I got my first rotary cutter, ruler, and mat around 1984 (I still have the ruler...the other two wore out long ago!!). I have all my fingers, and the only scar I have on my left hand is from a cut from opening a cat food can....not from the rotary cutter!
I love quilting, esp. scrap quilts...and I have at least three rotary cutters....! Fun giveaway! Thanks--Connie
I bought my first rotary cutter in about 1982. Started quilting in 1975, but left the field a couple of baby quilts later because the fabric was so awful. Kept my Quilters' Newsletter subscription, though, & when I read about the cutter, it sounded miraculous so I ordered a set from them (remember when they sold fabric & notions?). The mat was one of those awful translucent ones, and the ruler accurate only to the nearest 1/4", but the cutter was an Olfa. At first, I only used it to cut gift wrap, etc., but when the fabric started getting nicer I dove back in. Yes, I have cut myself - not quilting but when I was too vigorously "clipping" recipes out of a magazine.
I learned about rotary cutters in the late 1980s. I hadn't been quilting for a few years when I attended a meeting about quilting given by some ladies at church. I bought one the next day. I was using it on the floor while my 3-year-old daughter was playing nearby. She was the one who got cut when she stumbled and fell on it. Ouch! Rotary cutters are amazing! Thanks for offering the giveaway, Bonnie.
About 2002.....before that time I wondered why anyone would cut beautiful fabric apart and then sew it back together!!
Judyhutchens@yahoo.com
I bought my first rotary cutter & mat in 1996. I've not injured myself with the cutter, but that's probably just because I've not been using it long enough, yet...there's still time.
OMG, l made my first quilt with a not very sharp pair of shears, a 6” cardboard template, and my Mothers’ old woolen clothes. My first rotary cutter was not an Olfa, but a Kaicut, which l still have, it is such a wonderful memory each time l see it, but today l use the Olfa, as it is ergonomically correct. l began quilting in 1971, l sew every day. l am so thankful for the great friends l have through quilting, and all the wonderful times l spend with them.
JoAnn
Back in the early 1970's, I took some quilting classes at what was then Shepherd College, in Shepherdstown, WV. The instructor was Holis Turnbow. And yes, this was BRC! We drew everything on our fabrics using a regular school-type 12" ruler and pencil, then cut it all out with scissors. It was back-breaking and took a lot of valuable class time. PTL for rotary cutters and mats! Thanks, Bonnie, for the opportunity to win the anniversary gift from Olfa!
i first used a rotary cutter in 1985. It was at first, a scary thing! But after having made several previous quilts using the pencil line and shears technique,i was dazzled by the ease of using a rotary cutter! And of course, I've never looked back? :)
Was probably 5 years ago I got my first rotary cutter. Would love to win this nice set. Patiently waiting for the super secret stuff.
Lewjacks
I have had an Olfa cutter since I got my first 28 mm yellow one years ago. I also have the 25th anniversary silver one, bought for the occasion. I would love to help celebrate the 35th anniversary with you.
lewjacks@suddenlink.net
I bought my first rotary cutter on vacation with my mom (as did she). We were in Branson, Mo. It was in the early 198?.
Thanks for the chance to win.
I made a quilt back in the mid 70s when I was in my 20s. Don't remember how I did it, but with scissors and a yard stick! Started quilting this year and love all the new tools and helpers! Esp the rotary cutters!
Marla Keating
Keating.marla@gmail.com
3412My brother-in-law came back from Japan i the 70's and told me about a too used to cut silk. I found the rotary cutter. At that time it was a very small one. I still have that cutter as well as many more. My favorite still is the Olfa.
Oooo, love Talenti ice cream! What a treat! I have used Olfa from the start, and got my Mom using their products too. When I first started, I used scissors and templates too. The rotary cutter is one of the best inventions! Thanks Olfa for making Quilting easier.
Sara (aka ohsirius7@hotmail.com)
"That little pizza cutter" is so much easier than how I watched my Gram cut her quilt pieces out by pinning a paper template onto cloth & then using regular scissors!
Gloria
ecirpjg@yahoo.com
My first quilting class in BC in 1994 is when I learned of Olfa Rotary cutters and mats. How does one explain to a new husband where a mitt full of money went when after the first quilting class? Yes, scars after cutting at 8am to get a custom quilt made for his office before we were transferred!!
I do remember quilting before rotary cutters, but wasn't doing much quilting back then. I think I may have given it up if the rotary cutter hadn't come along!
I still have my old ancient first Olfa and it works well. My newer ones are ergonomic so I switch back and forth...still love Olfa best
Jane Modjeski
I discovered rotary cutters in 1985. I thought for sure that I could use cardboard instead of a mat.....I had to get a mat after all! I used that mat for years (Olfa) until it got brittle! Now the other day I just learned that I need to be moisturizing my mats! Who would have thought! Have you moisturized your mats lately?!? LOL Thanks for hosting the giveaway!
I've been using an Olfa since I took up quilting anew, oh about ten years ago. Rotary cutters are a MARVELLOUS invention!
I got my 1st rotary cutter in 1988. The only incident I've had concerning my cutter was when I thought I tightened the guard inplace & stuck it in the back pocket of my jeans & went to run errands. The 3rd time into the car I got it! Haven't done that since.:) I still have the scar.
I bought my first Olfa rotary cutter and mat in 1985. I was taking a beginning class at a LQS and she suggested a few things on the project sheet. I now own many of these in all colors, sizes and shapes.
I was injury free for almost 30 years until 2012 when I sliced off a small piece of my left index finger cutting fabric for a customer at the quilt shop I worked at. My manager quickly taped it back together (it was hanging by a thread) and it healed nicely with no scar. I was lucky. Have been much more careful since.
Bought first rotary cutter in 1984I must, own 20, if not more of different sizes now. In showing Husband how to use the cutter while standing at a lopsided over his shoulder angle for guiding, I not only sliced through several layers of fabric, but also through my finger into the nail. Blood never made it to the fabric. However I had to yell at husband to go get me a towel to catch the blood...he must have thought cutting one's finger was part of the cutter's use.
Keep smiling,
Hi Bonnie, I bought my 1st rotary cutter around 1999 and it is an Olfa. Although I do not yet (knock on wood) have a scar from rotary cutting, I currently have a cut from one. Have fun with your friends at the cabin. Thanks for the give away.
Sherry from NY
shermcar@rochester.rr.com
I was just looking at my ratty old cutting mat yesterday thinking it's time to replace...hmmm maybe this is my lucky day!
I started off with cardboard and yardstick/pencil, even though the rotary cutter had been around for a while... just didn't know about it. I was thrilled to find out about it.
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