Remember, taking your time and using the right techniques will result in a more professional-looking finished product. Keeping the Fabric Taut Furthermore, most applique dies come with free machine embroidery designs. (Learn how to use AccuQuilt embroidery designs!) Well, the Big Shot Plus opening is smaller than the Go! opening, which means many dies that fit through the Go! won’t squeeze into the Big Shot Plus. Once you have marked out the circumference of your circle, you can connect the marks to create a smooth curve. One way to do this is by using a French curve ruler, which has a variety of curved edges that can be used to create different shapes. Alternatively, you can use a piece of string or ribbon to connect the marks, pulling it taut to create a straight line between each point. With these methods, you can easily and accurately cut a circle in your fabric for your next sewing project. Pros

Manufacturers like Cricut, AccuQuilt, and Sizzix have different price tiers. Your budget can thus impact machine selection. Another technique is to use a rotary cutter and a cutting mat. Place the fabric on the mat and use a compass to draw the circle on the fabric. Make sure that the compass is sharp and the fabric is held in place. Use the rotary cutter to carefully cut along the line, keeping the blade vertical and steady. I can cut all my pieces for even the most intricate quilts or sewing projects in less than an hour or two! 3. Safety + Love Your BodyI chose the Go! over the larger, electric fabric cutter (AccuQuilt Go! Big) because electric things eventually go kaput, so I prefer a hand crank. While there are other less expensive Cricut cutting machines (ex. Cricut Explore Air 2 or Cricut Explore 3), they require bonding fabric before cutting. This is perfect for applique, but I don’t bond quilt fabrics. You also don’t have to select a material to cut (as in Cricut Design Space). This Brother cutting machine has auto blade sensor technology that’s promised to give more accurate cuts on different materials.

Learning to use Cricut Design Space or other computer programs could be difficult if you are not technologically inclined. 5. BudgetThe Sizzix Big Shot Plus cuts up to 9″ in width, which is a big deal if you want to cut 8 1/2″ x 11″ papers. (Compare this to the AccuQuilt Go!, which has the 10″ cutting width.) The Big Shot Plus has an electric and manual version. When measuring and marking your fabric, it’s important to use straight lines and precise measurements to ensure accuracy in your project. One way to do this is by using a ruler or tape measure to mark the circumference of your circle. First, determine the diameter of your circle by measuring from one side to the other. Then, divide that measurement by two to get the radius. Use the radius to measure out the circumference of your circle along the edge of your fabric, making small marks at regular intervals.

Whether you’re making a quilt, a tablecloth, or a piece of clothing, a neatly cut circle is sure to add a professional touch to your finished product. PressingNow, the Cricut Maker uses a small rotary wheel blade to cut fabric pieces adhered to the special Cricut fabric cutting mat (the pink one!) Thus, if you want a machine without dies, this is your best bet! To start, select a compass that’s suitable for the size of circle you need to cut. Adjust it to the desired size by loosening the screw and sliding the legs to the appropriate position, then tightening the screw again to secure it in place. Another option is to tape the fabric to a table or cutting mat using painter’s tape or masking tape. Make sure the tape is secure and the fabric is pulled tight before you begin cutting. With these techniques, you can ensure a clean and precise cut every time. Using Sharp Scissors Once you’ve trimmed the edges, take a moment to admire your handiwork! Your circle should now have clean, finished edges that are ready for whatever project you have in mind.