28mm vs 45mm Rotary Blade: Which Size Fits Your Cutter?
By Excel Blades: Precision Cutting Tools & Craft Knives | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: Comparisons
Compare 28mm and 45mm rotary blades for quilting, paper crafting, and more. Learn which size matches your handle and cutting needs.
Quick answer
Choose a 28mm rotary blade for tight curves and single-layer cuts, and a 45mm blade for straight lines through multiple layers. Your handle compatibility determines which sizes fit.
Size and maneuverability trade-off
The 28mm blade is noticeably smaller than the 45mm, giving you finer control for intricate shapes, small patterns, and curved cuts. It fits Excel Blades Medium Rotary handles and any Olfa-style handle, making it a versatile replacement option.
The 45mm blade covers more ground per pass, so it's faster for long straight cuts on fabric or paper. However, it can feel bulky when you need to pivot around tight corners.
Layer capacity and cutting depth
The 28mm Straight Rotary Blade can cut through up to 6 layers of material at once, which is enough for most quilting patches, paper stacks, or cake fondant strips.
A 45mm blade typically handles 4-6 layers as well, but its larger diameter gives a deeper cutting edge, making it easier to slice through thicker stacks without dragging. For very thick stacks (8+ layers), a 45mm or even 60mm blade is more efficient.
Trade-offs at a glance
- 28mm blade: Best for detailed curves, small templates, and single-layer or 6-layer stacks. Fits Excel Blades Medium Rotary and Olfa-style handles.
- 45mm blade: Best for long straight cuts and thicker material stacks. Requires a 45mm-compatible handle (check your cutter).
- Handle compatibility: Not all handles accept both sizes. The 28mm blade fits medium rotary handles and Olfa-style handles; the 45mm blade needs a handle designed for 45mm blades. Check your handle's blade size before buying replacements.
Product facts
- 28mm Straight Rotary Blade: The 28mm Straight Rotary Blade is carbon steel, cuts through 6 layers at once, and fits Excel Blades Medium Rotary handle and any Olfa-style handle. This means you get precise, multi-layer cutting with a blade that swaps easily into common rotary handles.
28mm Straight Rotary Blade
Which blade fits your cutting?
Choose 28mm blade for
- intricate curves and small pattern pieces
- single-layer or moderate stack cutting (up to 6 layers)
- users with a medium rotary or Olfa-style handle
Choose 45mm blade for
- long straight cuts through thick fabric stacks
- users who need faster coverage on large projects
