OLFA Compass Circle Cutter 6" CMP-1 — precision cutting for paper, film & light wood with blade storage

The OLFA 9911 CMP-1 Compass Circle Cutter is a precision hand tool that slices clean circles up to 6" (15 cm) from paper, film, acetate, cardboard and light wood, and stores six spare COB‑1 blades in its handle.

Whether you make templates, craft detailed models, or prepare graphic proofs, this compact compass-style cutter lets you produce repeatable, accurate circles without a rotary machine. Its adjustable arm locks to set diameters, a pivot point keeps rotation secure, and the ambidextrous design suits both right- and left‑handed users. The included COB‑1 blades are sharp enough for thin woods and card stock, and the handle doubles as convenient blade storage so you’re ready for multiple projects.

How precisely can I cut circles with this compass cutter?

The CMP-1 is built for consistent, repeatable circles up to 6" in diameter. A fixed pivot and adjustable cutting arm minimize wobble and help maintain a smooth arc so edges come out clean with fewer snags than freehand cutting.

• Maximum diameter: 6" (about 15 cm).
• Adjustable arm locks to hold exact radius while you rotate.
• Pivot point anchors the cutter for stable, concentric cuts.
• Sharp COB‑1 blades give crisp edges on paper, film and light wood.

What materials can the OLFA compass cutter handle?

This cutter is intended for thin, craft-friendly materials rather than heavy-duty industrial stock. It handles paper, photo film, acetate sheets, card stock, cardboard and thin balsa or softwoods when used with steady hands and multiple gentle passes.

• Ideal: paper, card stock, photographic film, acetate, light cardboard.
• Works with thin wood like balsa or veneer with care and layered cuts.
• Not recommended for plywood, MDF or dense hardwoods.
• Use multiple light passes for thicker materials to avoid tear-out.

How do I change blades and keep the cutter performing?

Blade replacement is straightforward: open the blade holder, swap in a new COB‑1 blade, and resecure the clamp. The handle stores six spare blades, so replacements are on hand and safe. Regularly inspect the pivot and tighten the locking mechanism to maintain concentric cuts.

• Handle stores six extra COB‑1 blades for quick swaps.
• Change blades when edges become ragged or require more force.
• Wipe pivot area clean of debris and tighten fasteners as needed.
• Store the tool dry and capped to protect the blade and pivot point.

Who is this for? Crafters, graphic artists, model makers, sign-makers and teachers who need a portable, precise way to cut circles will find the OLFA 9911 CMP-1 valuable. It’s especially useful when you want better control and cleaner edges than scissors can provide but don’t require a powered cutter. Because it’s ambidextrous and compact, it suits hobbyists, classroom use and small studios where space and budget are limited.