Systems and methods are provided for bi-directional cutters for Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) machines. One embodiment includes a bi-directional cutter for Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) manufacturing. The cutter includes a cutter body that has an upper edge and a lower edge, and has an opening placed between the upper edge and the lower edge that is dimensioned to enable passage of a tow of fiber through the cutter body. The cutter also includes a first blade disposed on the lower edge of the cutter body that is oriented to cut the tow when the cutter is driven downward, and a second blade disposed on an edge of the opening in the cutter body that is oriented to cut the tow when the cutter is driven upward.