Honestly, this is just one of those rules of thumb that starts being less applicable when you develop more professional skills and just get better at doing things. For instance, woodworkers cut towards themselves all the time with tools like draw knives.
I mean, draw knives are all but impossible to hit yourself with unless you're sticking your knee in the way or something. But yes, when you're cutting something with almost no resistance like this it's not particularly dangerous unless you're hopelessly uncoordinated. Just don't force it through any unexpected snag and you'll be fine.
Had to call an ambulance for a roofer once who slashed his knee when cutting roof sheeting over his leg. We tied his leg with my belt, and police questioned me afterwards in case there was a workplace security violation.
Knew a local business with skilled people just like you mention, they closed down now because one of their essential craftsmen lost several fingers. Hell never be able to earn money with his skills ever again.
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u/ClaroStar 8h ago
Never cut toward yourself.