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 801 – 992 of 992I discovered rotarycutters when I started quilting in 1994. Thank goodness no major mishaps, only a few fingernails in the beginning. Thanks for thegiveaway!
As I am a newbie my first purchase was 2013, but I am loving learning all the different skills needed. I have not yet got any scars! Thanks for the chance.
I bought my first rotary cutter in the late 1990's when I started quilting. I have been around them since I have no idea. Homemade quilts have been a part of my world my entire life.
Laurie
towers.l@comcast.net
I just started quilting in the last 5 or 6 years so I have always used a rotary cutter. It would be really hard to cut all those little pieces with scissors. My fingers get really sore just cutting out a few applique pieces. Happy birthday, Olfa! Thanks for the chance to win, Bonnie.
Sono quilter da soli 3 anni e ho avuto subito un cutter rotante. Certo immaginare di tagliare tutto con le forbici... o mio Dio!
Un abbraccio e grazie per questa opportunità .
Silvana
elosarig59@gmail.com
Got my first rotary cutter in 1999 when doing a church project to cut 5" squares to send to our missionaries over seas. Used only once a year until 2010 when I retired and started quilting. First mishap was two years ago when I dropped cutter on foot. No more open blades. Karen Beck robren5272@sbcglobal.net
Just started quilting, friend has introduced me to the rotary wonders! They are amazing. I have had a couple close calls, but feel like they are the most efficient way to cut. :D
Jennifer Collard
Stitchster@wildblue.net
Hi! got my first cutter and mat in 79, and it changed my life. It gained me a best friend, quilting pal, and second mom all in one. Sadly Edna passed on and I'm recovering. Hard to believe a little tool could have such power, but it did. We had wonderful times together just cutting, sewing, and quilting.
No stitches with the cutters but knives, now that's another story. I'm pretty sure I bought my first cutter in 80. It probably is somewhere around here.
With my small craft show business I had access to a local wholesale fabric & notions distributor and bought the original Olfa 28mm cutter the first year it was out. I brought it to the adult ed. sewing class i went to (for social time away from babies) and even introduced it to the teacher. The original had a brass shaft and I wore a groove in it. My husband kept making me washers to move the wearing out point but eventually had to replace it - several times now. My favorite size is the 45 mm.
I started quilting in 1978 with cardboard templates.
My husband bartered for my first rotary cutter at a trade show in 1984. The mat was a white plastic, smooth on one side and bumpy on the other. We had graduated acrylic 1/4 inch thick straight edges to use as our "rulers"; there were no markings on the mat or the straight edges.
I have been lucky; cut myself once making the frayed edge on an Indian costume. Lots of blood, but no stitches.
I can't tell you the exact year that I got my first rotary cutter. I had made several bed quilts the old fashioned way. Because I was naturally frugal, I'm sure it would have been a couple of years before I spent the $$ for a mat and cutter, probably the early 80's --But I've never looked back since then! I have no scars either, but I'll tell you that I am real careful not to drop the cutter on my bare feet in the summertime. 8-)
I bought my first rotary cutter in the early 90's and still have it. I cut thee corner off my pointer finger on my left hand (I am right handed). there iss no scar, just a little missing piece. I left a spot of blood on the clear ruler/straight edge I was using and remember to be careful every time I see it. jspwarren at aol dot com.
If Olfa is 35 Years old, that's when I started using rotary cutters. Also got a Salem brand ruler & cutting mat at the same time. Still have them all & still use them to this day!
Hi Bonnie, patchwork for me started in the early '90's, and I still can imagine the pain in my hands after cutting numerous piece with a pair of scissors! I bought my first rotary cutter during a trip in Canada in 2003 (I'm living in the Netherlands), and what a relief it was! Preparing a quilt has never been better since then!
Best wishes from Oegstgeest (NL)
Anne-Marie
My mother in law got me involved with patchwork in the 70's doing hexies all by hand and cutting with scissors. Once I found the rotary cutter in the 80's I haven't looked back since. I would love the chance to win this gift. Thank you for the chance.
Linda (hedworth01@gmail.com)
I guess I am a little spoiled, I never knew the quilting world before rotary cutters! I used them for the first time in 1997 while making quilts with mt Girl Scout troop!
Lucky for me I didn't quilt before the advent of the rotary cutter.
I learned to piece quilts using cardboard templates and scissors from an Amish woman who taught me quilting using a treadle machine. I didn't succumb to the 'modern technology' rotary cutter until the late 90's. Now of course I can't imagine having to work without them although the Accuquilt Studio does a lot of my mass production work. As it happens it's time for a new mat and cutter so Pick me! Pick Me!
I bought it in the 1980's. I would love a new set. I made two nieces graduation quilts - one was green with tangerine and the other navy with rose pink.
Took my first class in 1983 without a rotary cutter. Cardboard templates and scissors - gave up after one block. Came back to quilting after I discovered the rotary cutter and that made all the difference!
kismet51@aol.com
I was introduced to the rotary cutter and mat about 8 years ago when I first started quilting. Actually, I was introduced before I started quilting since my first job in quilting was to be a cutter and a ironer for Andee, Bonnies #1 fan. Andee slowly taught me everything she knows and for the past 8 years we have made some beautiful quilt together.
Happy Birthday to Olfa I probably started using the rotary cutter in the mid 90's when I started quilting.
I can't imagine making a quilt with out it! I actually have one just for paper that I use when wrapping Christmas or Birthday presents! sorry no mishap stories….
Thanks Kathie
I boguht a rotary cutter for a friend several years ago. I didn't allow myself to have one until 2012. I finally bought myself an Olfa cutter and mat and now I don't want to sew clothes anymore, LOL. Only items that can be rotary cut :) No scars yet, knock on wood.
I bought my first rotary cutter in the late 80s. Can't remember exactly when but after I moved into this house. Still have some scissor cut strips from log cabin curtains I was going to make valerie.boudier@ntlworld.com
I would love to win the Olfa set. Thanks for the chance to win. And yes, I got my latest scar last year at a group quilt gathering. That's the last time I've taken fabric to cut, now I
am prepared before going to the get together. And I carry bandaids and Neosporin with me.
cindy
cke49@yahoo.com
Memories, what memories. I purchased my first rotary cutter when I decided to make my first quilt from my maternity tops, little dresses for four girls and some cowboy fabric from my sons shirts. They were all fabric styles and all weights. As I used my cutter and mat I went crazy and the ensuing quilt is huge. I went on to perfect my skills and when I went to an interview to teach my first quilting class, I used my rotary cutter to cut a thred, nicked my thumb and had to be taken to the emergency room for stitches. Needless to say, I got the job and I have enjoyed quilting for over 45 years. Thank you for all of your inspiration. Tracy Allen at tallen.quilter@gmail.com
I discovered rotery cutters in 2012 when I discovered quilting. So far I have been able to avoid scarring myself. Although, I have lost some fingernail pieces.
I just got into quilting so I found the rotary cutter in 2013!
I started quilting about four years ago and bought my first Olfa rotary cutter, cutting mat and beginner sewing machine at that time. I've upgraded on sewing machines but still use the same rotary cutter I bought at that time. I cannot imagine quilting without it.
I came late to the Quilting scene so I always remember Rotary cutters....and I have Many scars to prove it!! Ha. Thank you Bonnie.
Debra in Ma.
I love Olfa. I bought my first one in 2008 when I started my first quilt. Would love to win!
It was 1994, when I took my first quilting class. I still have that rotary cutter, which has gone through many blade changes. I have nicked furniture and non-intended fabric more than I have nicked myself, fortunately. I agree it's the best tool going.
Linda
simmonsretired@comcast.net
Wow - it's been so long I can barely remember BUT I still have it and know the first quilt (original design of sating squares in fall colors forming the top of a autumn tree with tea dyed muslin background and mixed cottons for the trunk)I made with it so - 1990-ish.
Introduced to rotary cutter in 1989...definitely would not be quilting without it.
Not sure when, but got one for my mom and dad after teaching them to quilt with scissors and templates in 1981. Eleanor Burns introduced it to me and I bought mom one to try out. never looked back. Now I want and accuquilt cutter so I can keep up to you, Bonnie. Still use my olfa every day tho'
i NEVER would have started quilting if the rotary cutter hadn't been invented! i started quilting in 1997 because my hands gave out and i had to give up knitting. i was desperate for a "craft" to keep my hands busy. in January of 1998 my youngest son died and if it hadn't been for my fascination with quilting I'd never have survived. thank you olfa!!!! btw bonnie, you are awesome! nancyb swiftriverquilts@gmail.com
I made a cathedral window quilt into a skirt in the 60's, but I got back to quilting in the late 80's and RCs were already in existence. I have nicked my knuckle a couple of times and once a toe, but nothing serious. I respect those blades. If I win, I will pass the pack on to a new quilter b/c I have an ample supply of these.
Sharon
sjhughson@gmail.com
I started my first quilt in college, using template plastic, pencil lines and scissors. I've still got the block pieces somewhere! I discovered the joy of rotary cutters at a quilting retreat in 1989 at a quilting retreat hosted by Eleanor Burns at Quilt in a Day in San Marcos, CA. My world changed that weekend, and I've not looked back since!
I'm not sure when I first bought a rotary cutter but I've been quilting on and off since the 70s. I sliced my finger with the rotary cutter once and had to have surgery. I passed out when they came to take me to do the surgery so they brought me out of it just to put me under. Another time I dropped the rotary cutter and the blade cut through my slipper and sock and cut my toe. Thanks for a chance to win.
mayoatiddIn 1980, I was introduced to quilting by a neighbour who had been quilting since childhood. I used to cut big patches as I found the little pieces too tedious. A hunters star quilt all cut was given away and a radiant star kit I bought I never used. When our community started getting cable and i saw videos of Eleanor in Quilt in a day I discovered that I could not only speed piece, but I could use the wonderful combination of cutting mat and rotary cutter. Imagine, no more making templates and sewing all those little pieces together! As there was no store selling quilting tools here. I ordered a set from Hancocks in the States. I still have and love it. ( the blade is only exposed when used and so no risk of my little boy cutting himself then)
Technology is wonderful isn't it? I am now the proud owner of three cutters, including two Olfa of different sizes.BTW, I even taught that neighbour about speed piecing and cutting and introduced he to the olfa cutter.
Bought my first rotary cutter in 1998 when I started quilting. Now I cut many charity quilt kits for others to complete.....couldn't do what I do without my rotary cutter. It's opened up a whole new world and enabled us to make more charity quilts.
I am not sure about the year, but know it was in the 1980's. I had started using it, but the most fun thing I remember is attending a retreat where Mary Ellen Hopkins was the lecturer and she talked about the whizzy wacker as she described it and how it made quilter's lives so much easier.
I first used a rotary cutter before I even began quilting - making a quilt for a teddy bear, and I thought gee, this is kind of a cool gadget. Then when I began quilting for serious, I really understood and valued it for the miracle that it really is! I also have a whole new appreciation for old quilts with a jillion tiny pieces in them that were cut by hand!
Gina Block
whois2313@gmail.com
I've had my rotary cutter for probably 15 or so years... Bought it for a quilting class - what a great invention! No mishaps yet; the instructor kept reminding us to clost the cutter! No mishaps so far.
Kathy Brown
wwngtb@yahoo.com
I started quilting in 1988. I have one of the original cutters. The very first quilt I started making I cut off the side of my pointer finger. I have been very careful since then!
I first used a rotary cutter in 2001,when I took my first quilting class. I am so glad I went on my own, as none of my friends wanted to learn how to quilt.My life has not been the same, I have even changed a few minds.
I first discovered rotary cutters when I discovered quilting - about 10 years ago. My scar story - I had taken percocets for pain (back issues) and then decided I wanted to fussy cut mini tumblers. On my lap, with my cutting mat on my lap. Somehow that did not work out (surprisingly, right? LOL) and I cut my stomach, and have the scar to prove it! Rotary cutters and pain meds do NOT mix well! :)
I bought my rotary cutter when I made my first quilt. I was a garment sewer all my life. I decided to make a quilt when i was walking through Jo-Anns and spied the cutest bundle of fabrics. I bought them and later found out they were fat quarters. I was hooked. When I retired 3 years ago I began quilting full time and joined a guild. I can be reached at Dottie Stark (all one word) at Yahoo dot com.
Maybe if I had a new rotary cutter I wouldn't cut my thumb off. I'd love to win!
Thanks for all you do!
Memories Bonnie my first quilt was in about 1978 it was a pinwheel quilt made from poly-cottons large block of very bright reds and oranges this quilt did not survive the years of use but my memories do at that time I did not have a rotary cutter, But love mine now would not like to be without-it for sure. as for mishaps I am careful when changing blades but have put two blade in at once....I cuts much better with one blade. Happy Birthday Olfa
Happy Birthday Olfa! Couldn't quilt without you!
Trisha
Rdnckgrl64@cfl.rr.com
Memories Bonnie my first quilt was in about 1978 it was a pinwheel quilt made from poly-cottons large block of very bright reds and oranges this quilt did not survive the years of use but my memories do at that time I did not have a rotary cutter, But love mine now would not like to be without-it for sure. as for mishaps I am careful when changing blades but have put two blade in at once....I cuts much better with one blade. Happy Birthday Olfa
I have been using a rotary cutter since I started quilting around 1988. I learned the hard way that wine and rotary cutters do no always mix well. Still have all fingers intact luckily.
I bought my 1st rotary cutter in 1985 and it was the greatest so much better than templates. Thankfully the nicks have been small and minimal. It has really enhanced the quilting world. Couldn't quilt without it. Love the chance to win.
I remember so well my first quilt in the late 80's that I used a rotary cutter on. Using Christmas fabrics and templates I cut a sampler. It was beautiful. Makese really appreciate how much patterns have changed too with the invention of what I consider the most significant advancement in tools for quilting. The Olfa cutting system revolutionized the cutting experienced and allowed me to move onto piecing so much more quickly. I love my Olfa, it's the only brand I use for mats and cutters. You can buy cheeper but there is no better cutter or mat on the market. Happy birthday OLFA.
Karen Burgess
Karen.m.burgess@gmail.com
I am newbie to the rotary cutters. My daughter had one before me while she was in college - she has the scars to prove it. This must have been about 10 yrs ago. I do know it does make my life easier - once I learned the technique!! thanks, Cindy at cwienstroer@amuniversal.com
It was a very long time ago!! Yup, all the nicks and close calls and I dont remember how many rulers I hit and blades I ruined--eek! Thanks for the opportunity!
quiltindlj@yahoo.com
I started quilting in 1997, and that's when I was introduced to rotary cutters and mats. I'd been sewing clothing since I was in junior high school, but never quilts until then. I thought I'd died and gone to heaven! LOL I own one or two in each size, but I can never have too many! I also have the tiny little Olfa pin attached to my name tag badge! And yes, I have plenty of battle scars from nipping myself with my rotary cutter. Happy birthday OLFA for such great products, and thank you Bonnie, for offering them for a drawing!!
started using in 1993 I inherited my moms olfa. still using it. cant sew without olfa cutting my patterns first.
I started using an Olfa in 1994 & have a few scars to prove it although they have faded over time. I seem to get a bit wild when I change the blade! Would love a new mat etc. My birthday & Olfa's are almost the same so the present would be so nice!
Carol cjmccutch@gmail.com
Ice cream, yogurt,girl friends and sewing sewing what would be greater? Win Win Win
I started quilting in 1995 and my first purchase was an Olfa rotary cutter and mat. Still have the cutter. The mat didn't last as long though. And yes I did slice a thumb but no stitches required luckily. scrappyquilt@bellsouth.net
Wow--I guess it must have been soon after they were introduced! Thankfully, I've only had minor mishaps, but I have a few friends who could tell some horror stories.....
Hi Bonnie: I got my first rotary cutter about l977 and being the frugal quilter that I am, I opted to skip the mat and instead tried cutting on a piece of plexiglass. Needless to say, my blade dulled quickly. That was then; I now have the quick blade change model and love it. Cannot imagine quilting without both the cutter, mat and my many rulers. You rock Olfa. Jackie Hubert jhubert@cableone.net
I would love to win! Can never have enough Olfas!
It has make my quilting so much more enjoyable. I love my rotary cutter and mat. Don't know what I would do without them.
I'm a leftie...bought first one in 2013. Little slow I guess.
I Love my Olfa rotary cutter which was bought in the 80's and is still in use almost every day. It's been a wonderful time saver........even when I managed to remove a small portion of my index finger. Thanks Olfa for a great product!
Leah Bright in Mississippi
I remember when a friend first showed my this newfangled "pizza cutter" and demonstrated how easy it was to cut material. (About 1984) I was hooked after that!
Email blw1960.blw@gmail.com
Bought my first rotary cutter around 1980... but didn't know what I was doing with it so I wasn't very successful. I didn't know you had to use them against a ruler! Skip ahead fifteen years and I re-discovered quilting, learning so much from the internet! Can't live with my rotary cutters today! Happy Birthday to Olfa!
sewbizgirl@juno.com
I bought my first rotary cutter in 2008 and can't for the life of me figure out how I managed to make three quilts twenty years earlier without one! Maybe that's why I stopped quilting for those twenty years!!
lIn the early '80's I bought the Salem ruler, mat and rotary cutter. With TV and Georgia Bonesteel as a teacher I was off and running.
I, too, started cutting w/the yardstick, etc, and boy does that seem like the dark ages now! Must have picked up the rotary cutter when thy first came along and haven't looked back...thanks for this opportunity, Linda lhartman1@comcast.net
2906717
I think I got my first rotary around 1990. I never made a quilt cut out with scissors. I can't imagine quilting without Olfa. So far, never had an accident with a rotary cutter.
723
I started quilting before the rotary cutter came out and when it was introduced I got one of the first ones which I still have along with the cutting mat that doesn't have lines on it. I cut the end of my finger off with one just about 3 years ago and now I have a slightly "less fatty" end of my finger as a reminder. Would love to have this! nankc at comcast dot net
In the 1980's I bought a Salem ruler, rotary cutter and mat as a package. I watched Georgia Bonesteel on TV and was off and running.
I too used scissors on my first quilt. It wasn't until about 2007 or so before I got my first rotary cutter. I have a few unintentional wonky stars to prove it! You have been a busy lady. Can't wait until November to see what you are working on!
Gotta love Olfa...and I do!! Thanks for the giveaway and the chance to win.
i have all sizes they are the greatest .... im still working on my first quilt actually was way over my head to start.... didn't do strip piecing&cutting. oh my and i wasn't very efficient at my 1/4 in either. it was Georgia Bonesteel's monthly quilts and was several quilts different kinds you put in a notebook. It was called Strawberry patch ....It's beautiful and almost completed but what a buger.25 years now decided to start large and in charge boy was I in for a big beginning but I love quilting.....Thanks for your gifts to us and love your a blast....
2007. After finishing my first xmas quilt with thousands of pieces cut with an ordinary scissor.
When we moved to the Texas Hill Country in 1985 I discovered a lovely quilt shop in Boerne and took my 1st class at Sew Special. Started with a log canin , cut with a new gadget--a 28mm Olfa Rotery Cutter! I still have that little gem but have graduated to the 60MM!
I made my first quilt beginning in 1998 by cutting 2 1/2" blocks by hand, all 1260 of them. By my next quilt, I had purchased a rotary cutter and I haven't looked back! What a time-saving blessing. Thanks Olfa!
Robbin Golden
bobbini@sc.rr.com
Ruth Chapman
Chapmanrr@aol.com
Thankfully, I don't have any scars! Rotary cutters were the norm when I started quilting in 2008. So, I've always always had the convenience of using them. I am wild about OLFA's rotary mat though and love to have one. svonfumetti at yahoo dot com
my daughter was my teacher for rotary cutting. Best tool ever
I remember the cardboard templates as well! The first time I used a rotary cutter was after 1986 and I've never gone back! So far no rotary cutter induced injuries!!
Beth
oneoldgoat1962(at)gmail(dot)com
Since rotary cutters ant mats were around when I started quilting (around 1995), I only have used them. And, I am very thankful that I did not have to do it any other way. Love my rotary cutter and mat!!!
I first discovered the rotary cutter in the mid90s after I had med my 2nd quilt (a triangle quilt similar to a tumbler). Wow what a difference a nice sharp Olfa can make!
Ah the rotary cutter!! We made friends with each other in either 1981 or 82. Before this wonderful tool, one was cutting with templates and scissors! A long process.. Do you also remember there was no 6 inch wide ruler?? We had individual rulers of 2 1/2 inch and 4 1/3 inch etc to cut out the long strips.. Those were still happy days. Carolyn Barnett csbbobbin@yahoo.com
my first quilt class was in 1996, a rotary cutter and mat were on the supply list. My grandmother still, and always used, scissors and templates made from cereal boxes. I had no idea how easy quilting was going to be with a rotary cutter!
Hi,
I discovered the world of quilting and Rotary Cutter while I was pregnant with my second child in 2012, and it has kept me sane whenever I felt like I was going to lose my sanity. ha ha...
Now that girl is almost 2 & ½ year old, how time flies...
I started quilting pre rotary cutter. what a timesaver. I was definitely an early adopter!
I took my first quilt class in 1986 when I was a military wife stationed @ Ft Campbell, KY. The lady i learned from was fantastik..she had a shop in the back of her farm house in Clarksville, TN. I loved going to her for classes. I made my first quilt all by hand a block of the month, queen size. Completely by hand, pieced and quilted. She was a remarkable teacher. She taught me all the basics. I learned to draft and create any pattern with her guidance. I will be forever thankful for her advice. I wonder if she is still there with her quaint shop. She sold me all the supplies I needed and bought my first rotary cutter and matt from her. She let me make payments as a young military wife I could not afford to purchase them both at the same time along with the other fabric and notions I needed. She was a beautiful person. I wonder if she is still there with her quaint shop in the back of her house? Would love to go back to visit her one day.
Michaela
I have always used rotary cutters, so have been very lucky. But I have taken the tip of my finger off not once but twice, with the cutter. I finally bought Fons and Porters Klutz glove, and cut away with out any problems.
I've used a rotary cutter for about 15 years now & I love it. I would love to win a new set. Thanks for the opportunity.
Happy Birthday Olfa!
I remember trying to make my grandparents a quilt with scissors only. I almost gave up quilting after that! I love my Olfa cutters!
Hello Miss Bonnie, I discovered the rotary cutter around 1996 when I got tired of cutting out patterns. The small rotary cutters work wonderfully for pattern sewing (clothing). THEN I DISCOVERED QUILTING - guess what I mainly use my rotary cutter for now!!?? mimilyn7@hotmail.com
I couldn't even guess how long ago I discovered the rotary cutter. All I know is that my little mat is surely showing it's age. The only mishap I had with my rotary cutter is when I ran it into the side of my finger because it was hanging off the ruler. It was like getting a paper cut, and after that I always remembered to keep my fingers out of the way of the cutter!
I just started quilting when I retired two years ago. Learning how to use the rotary cutter I had purchased earlier was very enlightening!!! Love quilting and your daily blog with photos and patterns.
haybrton@gmail.com
My first olfa rotary cutter was purchased with a mat and ruler in about 1993 and I still use that cutter...it is my favorite! email-bgailey@hawaii.rr.com.
Hi Bonnie, I started quilting in 1975 with templates made from x-rays, pencil, ruler, and scissors. I gave it up for awhile to raise a family, and when I got back into it how things had changed! I bought my first rotary cutter and mat in the 80's and what a great change. I love mine, but would love to win a new one. Mary. Borermjb@yahoo.com
I don't remember when I bought my first rotary cutter, but I didn't like it, so I bought a different brand-Olfa- and I loved it I now have several sizes and blades. I almost cut the end of my finger off with the rotary cutter once using a metal ruler, I only use plastic now intended for cutter and I'm VERY careful. I'd love to win!!!!
I don't remember when I bought my first rotary cutter, but I didn't like it, so I bought a different brand-Olfa- and I loved it I now have several sizes and blades. I almost cut the end of my finger off with the rotary cutter once using a metal ruler, I only use plastic now intended for cutter and I'm VERY careful. I'd love to win!!!!
I believe I got my first rotary cutter around 1996. Would love to win. Thanks for the giveaway.
Rhonda
Blaze831@aol.com
Hmmm...I probably started using a rotary cutter when I was able to splurge on "me" so it had to be after the kids grew up :). Happy Anniversary OLFA
I also like to win. Olfa cutters are very good.
Greetings, Dini
akuijer@versatel.nl
I don't know when I bought my first rotary cutter. I can tell you that I still have it and use it almost daily. The blades, the mat and the rulers have changed but that cutter is still one my best tools. I learned a painful lesson the day I took off a piece of my fingernail and a small bit of the finger tip. The edge of that ruler is no place for a stray finger!
Love my Olfa rotary cutter. I have the different sizes. Love them.
I did some odd things in high school, but my first serious with with Georgia Bonesteel's Lap Quilting books, and LOADS of templates, sigh. I just bought new blades for my olfa $$$ another sigh, but worth it!
thanks olfa!
I started to make a pillow puff quilt using scissors - but stopped after noticing the squares were all different sizes. Decided to try quilting ONLY if I had the right tools - rotary cutter and mat - around 1991. Haven't turned back since! Thanks Bonnie!
Very expensive for blades, but very much worth it! Thanks Olfa
Sharon in Colorado
1993...first rotary cutter, made a baby quilt for my new baby! He's 21 now. My rotary cutter scar (left thumb knuckle) was in 2003, making a quilt for my kid's Christian school. 6 stitches, not one drop of blood on the quilt though. Priorities!! jdoezema@sbcglobal.net
I attempted my first pieced quilt in 1976 - Roman Square or Fence Rails. I was 16 and had no teachers. It was a mess. I cut it with scissors and knew nothing about matching points, etc. It was a frustrating disaster and immediately decided quilting was for others who had some magic I did not. I longed to be a quilter, like I've longed to learn a 2nd language for decades. Finally, 3 yrs ago, I engaged in some retail therapy after some very discouraging news and the y were offering beginning quilt classes. I signed up and have felt so much better ever since!
I started using a rotary cutter around 1999. Fortunately, I have not scars, yet. cknapp3626@sbcglobal.net
Yes I remember the yard stick days. I still have a coupla around and I had lots and lots of pair of scissors to cut with. I started using Olfa products in the mid to late 80's during my children clothes designing days.
I haven't turned back since. I still own my original Olfa cutter from the last 80's. yep sure do. :)
tushay3(at)yahoo(dot)com
Hi Bonnie,
I started quilting in the early 1990s and would not have gone very far if I didn't have my trusty Olfa cutter and mat.
I have a tiny scar on my big toe from when I dropped my cutter on my bare feet! I have learned to lean over my mat, and close the cover on my cutter before I set it down!!!
Thanks for the giveaway,
Jacqueline in Pitt Meadows
Check out my blog:
http://www.quilt-sewhappy.blogspot.com
For the past 10 years I have made regular use of my rotary cutter. A few nicks, but no blood drawn. Greetings from Finland! Mari: mamioja@luukku.com
rotary cutters entered my life in 2005. before that it was all about templates and scissors. I have a good inch long scar on my pointer finger from a fresh blade
First discovered them in the early 1990's. Made cutting so much easier. Now have them in 3 sizes!
Would love to get a new one.
Didn't have a rotary cutter when I made my first quilts in the 1970's. In the 80's I was making clothing and costumes, so I think it was sometime in the 90's. Can't get more exact than that:) But I am sure glad I have them now!
My first quilt was a log cabin with Eleanor Burns -- everything was ripped! AGH. It was 1982. I probably had the cutter sometime with in the next few years as I also made a log cabin jacket and I'm sure I was rotary cutting that. I bought it at my local quilt shop owned by Carolyn who still owns the store and The Road to California if I remember correctly. Fun to draw up these old memories.
I went to a conference in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1986 and my eyes were opened to so many things, rotary cutters, Berninas, Ghingers and a whole world I did not know existed. Nothing has been the same since. No more cutting templates!
Am kinda new to quilting world...so have probably had my Rotary Cuter & all, since about 1997 maybe...but didn't really use much til last few years....loving Quilty things now! :)
I bought my first rotary cutter and mat in the early 90's. I bought my first olfa a couple years later and often think it would have been better if I'd started out with an Olfa.
I remember the cardboard templates, but when I joined our local quilt club, I invested in an Olfa Cutter & mat, best quilting investment!!!I have however, had a few mishaps as that blade is very sharp. Before I retired, I would go to my sewing room every morning about 6:00 and sew for 1/2 hour before heading out to work - I did this in my robe after showering and I sliced into the sleeve on my robe and cut part of it off - needless to say, I now roll up the sleeves on my robe when sewing!!!
I have been quilting since about 1978. My first one was not only cut with scissors after tracing a cardboard template, but also piecing everything by hand. I was such a purist then! I'm glad I hung in there until rotary cutters and mats came on the scene. I need a new mat, and I don't own a 28mm cutter either. Please pick me!
I started quilting in 1977,78, and used templates and scissors. My first quilt was a medallion, and I did it without a pattern! I finished with a chevron border from a Quilter's Newsletter medallion series pattern,because the measurement fitted mine, and the tulips in the centres of the border followed my theme( our surname is Tulip, and I had not been married long. I layered my material and cut the diamonds out with scissors, and no regard for bias or straight of grain. Despite them seldom meeting at the points, the quilt is still one of my favourites, and it doesn't show too much!! I soon found rotary cutters, took classes and made more accurate quilts, Helen
I discovered quilting and the rotary cutter and cutting mat in 1994.I have been using them ever since!
Happy Birthday, Olfa!!
No scars, just a few nicks (knock on wood). I've worn out three cutting mats, so would love to win.
My first quilt was a scrap denim and scissor cut in 1993. Second quilt was in 1997 and was rotary cut. One scar, left pointy finger, cut deep enough I had to 'pull' the cutter out out of the finger...yowza! Yep, lesson learned!!
Would love to win. Happy Birthday Olfa. Thank you, Bonnie!
I, too, made my first quilts with cardboard templates, using scissors to cut the pieces. What a wonderful addition the rotary cutter and mat were to the quilting world. It's been so long ago --- I'm guessing sometime in the early 80's. I think those tools were used for paper, before they were used for cutting fabric.
Olfa cutters are the best! I've tried others, but I always come back to my Olfa. I still have my first Olfa cutter I bought about 1985 or so, when I first discovered quilting! Best invention ever!
Vickie in Cleveland
I always forget to close my cutter and yep grabbed it.....ouch! Would love to win! Sally, richter@wcta.net
Hello Bonnie, Thanks for the chance to win the Olfa cutter and mat. I began quilting in 2005 so I have been blessed to have used Olfa cutters and mats from day one. I remember my mom and grandmother using paper patterns and dress maker scissors to cut quilt pieces and am so very happy that Olfa has given us a much faster and more accurate way to cut out quilt pieces. Thanks Donna T. djtidwell57@gmail.com
I bought my first rotary cutter and mat in 1996 when a quilt shop opened up and offered free intro to quilting classes. I have not injured myself with the rotary cutter, but I have injured a few rulers and a lot of fabric.
I purchased my first Olfa rotary cutter in about 1984 for $12 and I still have it. It works just as good as it did when new. I never buy any other brand.
I've never been without a rotary cutter since I began quilting in about 1995. Mine have always been friendly, but a cutter did wound my wood floor once.
I bought my first Olfa cutter and mat in 1980. I still have them, and you can read the remnants of the $3.48 price on the mat. Not only did I quit using scissors to cut quilt pieces, I also quit using scissors to cut out garments! My daughters never knew to use scissors until they saw my sister cutting out a dress, lol. Olfa has revolutionized how we quilt. Happy Birthday, Olfa!
Juls, mathrun1 at yahoo dot com
I started quilting in 2001 and have been in love with the rotary cutters since then. With problems with my hands, the scissors just don't work anymore for any length of time. I would love to win a new cutter and mat. Love your blog. alvgoodyear@yahoo.com
My first bed sized quilt was also a log cabin -- a king sized about 15 years ago. When I purchased the fabric I also purchased an Olfa rotary cutter and mat. Don't know if I could have done it with scissors. Love your web site Bonnie. Thank you for all you do.
I started quilting in about 1988 so rotery cutters were around. I have been very lucky and have not cut myself badly. Only once did I cut my hand just a little and just enough to need a bandaid but no blood on the quilt! I have a friend who cut herself very badly. Thanks for the give a way. I alway love your blog, Facebook, and everything you do. Keep up the great work. And I I'll be looking forward to the mystery!
I began quilting about 1998 and was in a love/fear relationship with the rotary cutter. I had never had a mishap with the cutter(perhaps because of the fear) until recently when I touched the blade, not once but twice and bled a bit....once on the forefinger and once on the wrist. Just shows that it can happen!
I believe I used my first rotary cutter about 1992. So far, knock on wood, I have not seriously injured myself.
Donna
dwil23_33617@yahoo.com
I started quilting when Simply Quilts was on HGTV. Rotary cutters were available, but I use them on a daily basis. I've gone through 3 cutting mats since then. Congratulations to Olfa. I would love to win the great prize. Barb
I don't really remember when I purchased my first rotary cutter. Needless to say it was at least 35 years ago, perhaps when they first came available. I've been quilting for over 40 years now and every new event like the birth of my latest grandson, gets a quilt!
Evelyn O'Brien
eob522@yahoo.ca
My first quilt was made with templates in 1987 and then I discovered the Rotary Cutter. It has changed the quilting world! Thanks for the giveaway.
I would not be a quilter if Olfa wasn't in my life......arthritic hands and scissors don't work well anymore. Thanks for a great invention. I feel like I've already won!
I would not be a quilter if Olfa wasn't in my life. Arthritic hands and scissors don't work well. Thanks for the invention. I feel like I'm already a winner.
I can't imagine quilting without a rotary cutter! I think that's one of the reasons I avoided quilting for many years. Five years ago I was introduced to this fabulous gadget, and the wonderful world of quilting, and I have been hooked ever since!
Happy birthday, Olfa!
I was introduced to this fabulous gadget and to quilting five years ago, and I've been hooked ever since. I can't imagine trying to cut with scissors!
I remember well my first rotary cutter. It was demo-ed at the Houston Quilt Festival, and they were going as fast as the booth could take our money. I bought only the cutter, thinking I'd use a WOODEN cutting board. That worked, but not very well, and left some good gouges in the wood.
Life without these tools now is unimaginable!
First rotary cutter was Olfa on 1996 and it was a gift from my sister who bought 3 (non of them works or cut a thread) !!!!this is my scar
But never fed up still using the same brand and other brands dreaming to live longer before getting dull.
Is there original and non original Olfa?
Happy Birthday Olfa for making easier fabric cutsssss
I started quilting about 15 yrs ago. one of my first purchases was a mat and rotary cutter. Have only ever made a couple of blocks with templates. I can only imagine the time it would take to make a top from templates. Lynn Miller kaylee81650@yahoo.com
I purchases my first rotary cutter and mat in the early 1980. and have been very lucky to never have cut myself. I do use a silicone glove that is make for cleaning fish and I think that helps. Shortly after I purchases my rotary cutter I had a cutting table made with a mat that covers the top, works great. I cut almost all my patterns with a rotary cutter and all my quilt pieces. Wouldn't be without one. I can always use another one, so hope I win.
Virginia Pflum
What an exciting day it was as our family gathered to celebrate the engagement of one of our four sons! I wanted it to be perfect so I even made napkins for the occasion, but I was short one for an unexpected guest. I went to my studio, got out my rotary cutter and started the cut just as my brother-in-law stuck his head in the door. I looked up, but proceeded to keep cutting and cut the entire end of my finger off. My husband and I spent about four hours in the emergency room until the doctor finally sewed it back on so we missed the party entirely. However, I had a cheering section in the ER where people were asking the triage nurse to please take me next. They were tired of seeing the blood on the feminine napkin. (FYI Put a severed digit in a plastic bag and then put it in a ice water bath. Use a feminine napkin to stanch the blood.)
Jill Kershner, Houston jillkershner@gmail.com
I bought mine as soon as I found them. I was a gadget junkie for a long time and had to have every new thing that came out related to sewing! Still have most of it. Have twice sliced my left index finger, but have learned to be more careful. Wish I had a dime for every blade I have dulled!
In the early 1980's was when a workshop leader introduced me to the marvelous rotary cutter & mat. That mat finally needs a replacement--is drying out after 30+ years. Please enter me in this generous giveaway. P.S. No accidents w/ cutter as various tales from other less fortunate quilters scared me into being very careful!!
In the early 1980's was when a workshop leader introduced me to the marvelous rotary cutter & mat. That mat finally needs a replacement--is drying out after 30+ years. Please enter me in this generous giveaway. P.S. No accidents w/ cutter as various tales from other less fortunate quilters scared me into being very careful!!
My first quilt was a Double Wedding Ring done in a class around 1990. We used cardboard templates. However my second was a Double Irish Chain that was done with my newly acquired rotary cutter, mat and ruler! Having done clothing construction since the late 60's, this was even better than the electric scissors of the 70's!
Thanks for the chance to win
mcmsagers AT comcast DOT com
I honestly cannot remember when I first discovered rotary cutters. They have been around for as long as I have been quilting (about 15 years.) I did have a memorable mishap with my rotary cutter once. At our guild's first ever retreat, they had an event called "Quilt Olympics" in which we were divided into teams. I was on a rotary cutting team. We had to cut as many strips as possible during a timed event. I sliced the edge of my finger off! We have never had that particular event at our retreat since. LOL
I can't remember when I discovered the rotary cutter! I started with templates and hand piecing in 1992 or 1993, not sure which, then slowly discovered the rotary way. So much faster! No scars to tell about, knock wood!
Sandy A
scotty4me39 (at) yahoo(.)com
I can't remember when I discovered the rotary cutter! I started with templates and hand piecing in 1992 or 1993, not sure which, then slowly discovered the rotary way. So much faster! No scars to tell about, knock wood!
Sandy A
scotty4me39 (at) yahoo(.)com
I first used a rotary cutter -- and it was an Olfa -- in 1993 when I first started quilting. I still have the same Olfa cutter -- with new blades, of course LOL. Love Olfa products, and so far, am happy to say, have not had more than a nick. Hope it stays that way! Thanks for the chance to win.
My first rotary cutter was for my first quilt class in December1994. It came in a kit with a 6 X 9" ruler and an 18 X 24" mat. I still have all three plus more rotary cutters, several rulers and a few mats. Contact me at Nan@eoni.com
I started quilting in 1994 BECAUSE of the rotary cutter! My one and only accident happened about three years later. Home alone, listening to Carol Duvall on HGTV, using my first shape cutter - - and in the middle of the next cut turned to see something on the television ... sliced off the side of my pointer finger of my right hand. No bandaids, but did have paper towels and scotch tape. I don't look up at the television any more. LOL
Happy birthday, Olfa! A fellow-July baby! I've been quilting since 1995. My first Olfa was a 60 mm given to me by a really, really good friend, Holly. I love using the 60mm for all the fleece cutting for caps and blankies!!
Thank you Bonnie for this opportunity!
1991 the year I began quilting. Given to me by my mom.
Well I would love to win the olfa mat and cutter as it is My 40th wedding anniversary on the 20th! So I hope the random counter picks my number!!!!
I don't remember the exact year, but it wasn't when they first came out. They changed my life! I still have a few UFOs complete with my cardboard templates, and one has 5/8" seams! (note to myself...must finish those someday).
Yummy looking gelato, and thanks for the oppty to win.
I borrowed a mat and cutter from a friend in 1987. Didn't really know what I was doing and did my cutting on a picnic table on a hot summer day. The mat warped and I had to buy her a new one- hard on our budget at the time. I have used Olfa ever since. Wonderful product. Would love to win.
Rotary cutters are quite new to me. I just started using one in 2012 when I began to learn to piece quilt blocks. And back in the 70s I made several patchwork quilts by making a five inch template from cardboard and tracing it and scissor cutting the squares from scraps.
Yes, I still use my original Olfa cutter that I purchased in 1989, although I've purchased a smaller one, too. My first quilting instructor taught us safety habits of a rotary cutter and I'm happy to report I'm still injury-free after many happy years of cutting fabric and sewing it back together -aka: quilting!
Bought my first Olfa rotary cutter and mat in 1989. Really, really sharp blade. Had to hide it from my kids and even though they're grown now I still say DON'T TOUCH MY ROTARY CUTTER!!! Love all things quilty and absolutely love your blog, your books and all you do to help us quilters. theresablalock@windstream.net
I too started with a log cabin, cut from dressmaking fabric with shears in 1979. I didn't get my Olfa cutter and mat till about 15 years later but can't imagine life without them and would love to have the smaller rotary cutter as well.
joan dot warrackston at btinternet.com
My first quilt was a Log Cabin (Eleanor Burns)and all the strips were "torn". I didn't take up quilting seriously until 1998 when I took a class Quilting 101 and that's when I bought my first rotary cutter. Sure makes cutting easier. Would love to win a new Olfa cutter. Thanks for the giveaway. Love your blog!
Jane Bonfoey
jebonf@yahoo.com
I started quilting in the late '80s and always used a rotary cutter. In the first class I took, I accidentally left the printed instructions between my fabric and cutting mat and rotary cut the directions to shreds...oops! Thanks for the giveaway.
I had a scissors that I kept only for fabric in order to keep it sharp and had other household scissors for cutting paper, etc. I remember getting blisters from using the fabric scissors. My mother was a great seamstress, making clothing for herself and her three daughters. We thought it was a wonderful invention when she purchased her first electric scissors. Being corded, it wasn't really handy-- but it did save the rubbing on the skin that happened with the scissors. We were often in the fabric stores and were probably some of the first customers of the Olfa rotary cutter. We liked trying new things, and that invention topped the electric scissor by leaps and bounds. I cut so much fabric on my mat... until I made deep grooves in it that didn't magically disappear like the original cuts did. And it's no fun messing with re-cutting intact threads! But the mats last a long time. I'm on my third mat. Each generation of mat gets better-- incorporating more diagonal lines, etc. Olfa listens to the needs of their customers and makes great products. They have really well-loved tools, don't they? :-)
phreniuc@outlook.com
I purchased my first rotary cutter & mat in 1991. Haven't looked back since. I wouldn't be quilting without them!
Becky in Iowa
rswinther@gmail.com
I have worn out three rotary cutters and am on my fourth one! I've had more "injuries" than I care to remember- some of my fingertips aren't their original shape. I don't think I would have the patience to cut each piece by hand. Lisa Dunlap dunlap@fidnet.com
I started quilting with cardboard templates from a book when i was still in high school class of 82. My. Quilting life greatly improved around 1987 when i both got married and bought my first mat and rotary cutter! Even stiches from an open cutter , exhuberant 'yeah!' And clapping of hands after cutting all my pieces did not deter me!!
I first used a rotary cutter in 1990 when I made my first hand sewn quilt - have yet to quilt that one, but do QFK now by machine. Thanks for all your great ideas!
I love my Olfa rotary cutters.....could not live without them. Thanks for a giveway.
I discovered the wonderful rotary cutter in 1985 when Eleanor Burns introduced me to quilting. I have a few nicks on my fingers to show, but nothing major. Thanks, Bonnie, for the opportunity to win the anniversary gift from Olfa.
Please enter me in that one....
Yep scar and all. One night my dear hubby was in bed (early riser) and I was working on a project cutting 2 1/2 inch stips from scraps. Low and behold, I ran my rotary cutter right on the top of my left index finger. I had to go wake hubby up (after I first looked at the damage) to go to the E.R. for stitches. He just looked at me and said, Are you sure you need stitches.... I took the cloth off that was keeping blood off the floor, and he said.... guess so! Lol....
DJCogdill@q.com
I learned to quilt in 1979, but the friend who taught me didn't know about rotary cutters, so I learned to make templates from cereal boxes, trace around them and cut them out with scissors -- and then hand-piece. Then I moved to Santa Barbara, where a thriving Adult Ed offered quilting classes. I think it was 1994 when I learned about the rotary cutter. My favorite is the 60mm. No scars!
The third item needed is a ruler made of hard plastic to cut in a straight line. WOW,does that question bring back memories. I first used one in 1986. I can't believe it has been that long. Count me in for the give-away
I started quilting around 1999 and bought my first rotary cutter , thanks for this chance .
I learned to quilt in 1998 using templates to make a sampler table runner. Loved the table runner but hated the templates so quit right there. Then 10 years later I discovered that rotary cutters existed and began quilting again. What an improvement! My tools could use the addition of a new cutter and mat.
Sonia Tuttle
Sontut@aol.com
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