How to Cut Fabric Perfectly – (With Scissors & Rotary Cutters)

Last Updated on August 20, 2023

How to Cut Fabric Perfectly? Welcome back to TheSewingStuffs! In today’s beginner’s lesson, we’re diving into cutting fabric in a straight line using scissors and rotary cutters. We received a request from a lady struggling with cutting fabric straight, so we’re here to provide you with expert tips and techniques to master this essential skill.

How to Cut Fabric Perfectly

How to Cut Fabric Perfectly?

Whether you’re working with woven fabric, slippery rayon, or stretchy material, we’ve got you covered. Let’s jump in and learn how to achieve clean, precise cuts every time!

Tools You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s make sure you have the right tools at hand:

  • Good quality fabric scissors (e.g., LIVINGO, Gingher)
  • Sharp rotary cutters (smaller for curves, larger for straight lines)
  • Self-healing cutting mat
  • Quilting ruler
  • Fabric of your choice

Cutting Straight Lines

Here we shared how can you cut fabric Straight Lines with scissors and rotary cutter.

How to cut fabric in a straight line with scissors

cut fabric in a straight line with scissors

To cut fabric straight with scissors, place the scissors on the table and take a big fabric section. Let the blade rest on the table, and follow the tip of the scissors as you cut. Use sharp scissors for best results, and avoid using blunt ones, which can damage the fabric.

Steps:

  • Rest the bottom of your scissors on the table.
  • Take a big bite of fabric and keep the blade resting on the table.
  • Look at the tip of your scissors as a guide while cutting.
  • Avoid looking directly at the scissors or using small cuts.
  • Sharp, good quality scissors are crucial for smooth cuts.
  • Avoid using blunt scissors as they can chew up the fabric.

How to cut fabric in a straight line with rotary cutter and Ruler

Fiskars Classic Rotary Cutter

Fiskars Classic Rotary Cutter
  • Designed for Fabric
  • 45mm premium steel blade
  • Natural and comfortable grip
  • Long-lasting sharpness
  • Curved edges or straight lines

When cutting fabric straight with a rotary cutter and ruler, put the ruler on its edge, keep your hand safe above it, open the cutter’s blade, and cut away from yourself. Use the “cut and crawl” method: cut a bit, move the ruler, then cut again.

Steps

  • Align your ruler along the straight edge of the fabric.
  • Keep your hand above the fabric to prevent any accidents.
  • Open the blade of your rotary cutter and cut away from yourself.
  • Cut and crawl technique: Cut a bit, move the ruler, cut again.
  • This method is quick and effective for long straight cuts.

How to Cut Curves Accurately?

To cut curves accurately, use a smaller rotary cutter for tight curves, and guide it smoothly along the curve while keeping your fingers safe.

Using Scissors

To cut fabric with scissors, stretch the fabric, make small cuts while following the curve, and go slowly to avoid mistakes. Keep the blade tip as your guide, and avoid cutting big chunks.

Steps:

  • Hold the fabric taut and use your sharp scissors to make small, controlled cuts.
  • Follow the curve, keeping the blade tip as your guide.
  • Go slow and avoid taking big bites out of the fabric.

Using Rotary Cutter for Curves

Using Rotary Cutter for Curves
Image Source: Christine’s Home Affairs

For tight curves, choose a smaller rotary cutter. Keep your fingers behind it for safety. Move the cutter smoothly along the curve, and remember to use a self-healing mat to protect your work surface.

Steps:

  • Opt for a smaller rotary cutter for tight curves.
  • Keep your fingers safely behind the rotary cutter.
  • Follow the curve, moving the cutter around the fabric smoothly.
  • Use a self-healing mat to protect your surfaces.

How to Cut Slippery and Stretchy Fabrics?

Use sharp tools like scissors or rotary cutters when cutting slippery and stretchy fabrics. For control, rest the scissors on the table while cutting and guide the blade’s tip. With a rotary cutter, ensure a sharp blade and glide smoothly over the fabric.

Using Scissors

To cut slippery fabrics, place scissors on the table, cut slowly with sharp ones, and guide using the scissor’s tip. Be careful to prevent shifting.

Steps:

  • Rest the scissors on the table and cut slowly with sharp scissors.
  • Use the tip of the scissors to guide your cut.
  • Be extra cautious with slippery fabrics to prevent shifting.

Using Rotary Cutter

A sharp rotary cutter is great for slippery fabrics. It glides smoothly, minimizing fabric shifting. Keep the rotary cutter blade sharp for the stretchy fabric to prevent snags.

  • A rotary cutter with a sharp blade is excellent for slippery fabrics.
  • The rotary cutter glides smoothly, reducing fabric movement.
  • For stretchy fabric, ensure your rotary cutter blade is sharp to prevent snagging.

Video: Beginners Guide to Cutting Fabric

Conclusion

Mastering cutting fabric in a straight line is essential for any sewing or crafting project. Whether you prefer using scissors or rotary cutters, practice and precision are key.

Remember always to prioritize safety, keep your tools sharp, and take your time to achieve accurate cuts.

With these techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning fabric pieces for all your creative endeavors. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or requests for future tutorials. Happy cutting!

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