If you’re ready to speed up your fabric cutting for quilting and textile art — and preserve your furniture and rotary cutters — then it’s time to get to know the 5 best self-healing cutting mats on the market and how to use them.
Imagine having a reliable and durable surface that not only protects your work area but also mends itself magically.
Today, I want to introduce you to my take on the 5 best self-healing cutting mats for quilters and textile artists that will revolutionise how you work.
The 5 Best Self-healing Cutting Mats for Quilters
- Is it worth buying a self-healing cutting mat?
- Are Cutting Mats Really Self-healing?
- How Long Do Self-healing Cutting Mats Last?
- Caring for your Self-healing Cutting Mat
- What to Look For When Choosing a Self-healing Cutting Mat
- List of the 5 Best Self-healing Cutting Mats for Quilters
- How to Use Your Self-healing Cutting Mat
- Making Your Quilting Prep a Cut Above the Rest
- Related Posts
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission (at no further expense to you) if you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases from Amazon websites.
When I first started quilting and, later, thread sketching, I used my dining room table to prep all the fabric. But, of course, discovering the joys of rotary cutters also left my poor table vulnerable to unsightly cutting blade marks.
That’s when I discovered the wonder of self-healing cutting mats.
Investing in two or three cutting mats of different sizes has been a game-changer. It’s saved me time, money, and countless headaches.
So, if you’re a newcomer to quilting and textile art and you’re wondering whether a self-healing cutting mat is worth the investment, stick with me.
In this guide, I’ll investigate the pros and cons of these magical mats and introduce you to the top five contenders to help you choose one that meets your needs.
Is it worth buying a self-healing cutting mat?
You may be wondering if investing in a self-healing cutting mat is really worth it. Let me assure you, it absolutely is!
A cutting mat is not just an ordinary accessory; it will enhance your quilting experience in multiple ways.
A cutting mat saves you time and money
Mats act as a protective layer, ensuring that your table remains undamaged and your rotary cutters stay in top shape.
Rotary cutter blades are easily blunted if not used on an appropriate surface, which is where the cutting mat comes into its own.
Using a cutting mat extends the lifespan of your cutting tools
The self-healing properties of these mats allow them to absorb the impact of your blade, preventing it from dulling prematurely, provided you keep your rotary cutter at right angles to the mat. This means fewer blade replacements, which translates into long-term savings.
Are Cutting Mats Really Self-healing?
You might be sceptical about the concept of self-healing cutting mats. But the magic lies in their composition—usually a combination of PVC and high-quality polymers. There are also some made of tempered glass.
When you make a cut on the mat’s surface, the surface naturally closes up, erasing any visible marks and leaving the mat looking as good as new.
How Long Do Self-healing Cutting Mats Last?
Investing in a quality cutting mat is essential for durability and longevity.
Of course, nothing lasts forever! While the lifespan of a cutting mat can vary depending on usage and maintenance, a good quality self-healing cutting mat can last many, many years, making it a worthwhile investment for any quilter.
I have been using my three mats for more than 15 years, and they still look (almost) as good as new.
My very first cutting mat — purchased nearly 20 years ago — does show some signs of wear. However, although nicked here and there, the surface is still viable for making precision cuts.
To ensure your cutting mat stands the test of time, it’s essential to take proper care of it.
Caring for your Self-healing Cutting Mat
Cleaning
Clean the mat regularly with water, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. A regular wipe-down with a clean, damp cloth or sponge is sufficient. Leave the cutting mat where it will dry completely.
Storage Temperature
Avoid exposing the mat to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as these factors can affect its self-healing properties.
Where to Store Your Cutting Mat
Always store your mat flat or hanging on a wall to prevent warping. Rolling the mat is another option, but it can take a while to flatten out again, so it’s not a habit I recommend.
Rehydration
Over time, self-healing cutting mats can become dry, which may affect their healing ability.
If you notice any drying or loss of elasticity, gently rehydrate the mat by wiping it with a damp cloth or spritzing it with a small amount of water.
This helps rejuvenate the material and restores its self-healing properties.
What to Look For When Choosing a Self-healing Cutting Mat
When selecting a self-healing cutting mat, consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
Size
Determine whether you need a small or large cutting mat or if you would benefit from having both.
Larger mats provide ample workspace for bigger projects, while smaller mats are more portable and convenient for smaller tasks or for quilters and textile artists on the go.
Usage
Think about the type of projects you’ll be working on. A larger mat would be beneficial if you often work with larger fabric pieces or need to cut multiple layers at once.
However, a smaller mat might be more suitable if you primarily work on smaller projects or have limited storage space.
Measurement Units
Consider whether you prefer measurements in inches or centimetres. Some cutting mats offer both options, allowing you to choose the unit that aligns with your preferences and patterns.
Travelling Needs
If you’re a quilting enthusiast who loves taking your projects on the road, look for a cutting mat designed for travel.
These mats are usually lightweight and compact, making them convenient companions for quilting adventures away from home. Foldable cutting mats are also available.
List of the 5 Best Self-healing Cutting Mats for Quilters
Olfa Double-sided Self-healing Cutting Mat 24″ x 36″
I’m a great fan of Olfa products, owning two of their quality cutting mats. This Olfa Double-sided Self-healing Cutting Mat is a large mat is double-sided, with one side with grid lines and the other without.
The Olfa mat is not as thick as some other brands. However, I have been using mine for 15+ years, and they’re still as good as new.
Newbraug Perfect Self-healing Cutting Mat 18″ x 24″
The Newbraug Perfect mat is another popular mat with a 5-star rating. With its soft PVC, non-slip surface and smaller size, this cutting mat is great if you have limited space in your craft room.
It is double-sided and includes both imperial and metric measurements. It is available in various sizes.
Elan Cutting Mat 12″ x 9″
I love the look of the Elan mat, with its elegant black or beige colour choices.
This little mat is perfect for small projects or taking on the road when you travel. Manufactured from PVC, the Elan mat also reduces its environmental footprint.
This mat has a metric grid on both sides.
Calibre Art Rotating Self-healing Cutting Mat 14″ x 14″
Consider the Calibre Art Rotating Mat if you’re after a rotating, square cutting mat.
This popular mat has vertical and diagonal grid markings and, although a little more expensive than others, is well worth the investment if you want a rotating cutting mat.
US Art Supply White/Blue Professional Self-healing Cutting Mat 18″ x 24″
I love the white background of this versatile US Art Supply mat. Some mats are manufactured in very bright colours, which can be distracting when working with coloured fabric. However, it is also available in the more traditional green colour.
The grid lines include 1/2″ and 1/8″ markings and 45° and 60° guides.
How to Use Your Self-healing Cutting Mat
Once you have your self-healing cutting mat, let’s explore a few tips for maximising its effectiveness:
Use sharp rotary cutting blades
Self-healing cutting mats are designed to use with rotary cutters, preserving the sharpness of your blade, even after many uses.
Using a sharp blade when working with your cutting mat is crucial. Dull blades can cause wear and tear on the mat’s surface, diminishing its self-healing capabilities.
Regularly replace your blades to ensure clean and precise cuts. Bulk packs of replacement blades offer an economical option, and you’ll always have a new blade on hand.
Rotate your mat regularly
To prolong the lifespan of your cutting mat and maintain its self-healing properties evenly, make a habit of rotating the mat regularly.
Turning the mat around and flipping it occasionally allows you to distribute the wear more evenly across the surface.
Avoid always cutting in the same direction
Although these mats are ‘self-healing’, constant cutting in one direction will, ultimately, damage the surface of your mat.
Of course, turning the mat helps prevent this problem. But while you’re in the throes of cutting a stack of fabric, remember to alter your cutting direction, too.
Learn more about rotary cutting skills in this article: How to Use Rotary Cutters Safely: Essential Tips for Quilters.
Keep your rotary cutter blade vertical while cutting
Angling your blade away from vertical is more likely to damage the cutting mat’s surface. So always keep the blade at 90° to the mat.
Making Your Quilting Prep a Cut Above the Rest
Investing in a self-healing cutting mat is a decision you won’t regret.
Feeling hesitant about investing significantly in your quilting equipment and tools is natural. However, the benefits of owning a self-healing cutting mat are undeniable.
By exploring the key factors to consider when choosing a cutting mat, such as size, usage, measurement units, and travel needs, you’ve gained the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision.
Armed with this information, you’re ready to choose the best self-healing cutting mat for you.
The cutting mats I’ve reviewed all offer excellent quality and longevity. However, if you’re looking for a different size or colour, dozens of different cutting mats are available.
Investing in a quality self-healing cutting mat is a decision you’ll never regret, and with care, the mat will last for years.
Related Posts
- How to Use Rotary Cutters Safely: Essential Tips for Quilters
- 5 Best Rotary Cutters for Quilters in 2023