Best Overall
Dahle Van10693 Self-Healing Cutting Mat
Best Bang for the Buck
Fiskars Small 12" x 18" Cutting Mat
Best for Rotary Cutters
Anezus Self-Healing Sewing Mat
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Accidental gouges and scratches on kitchen replication and dining table are the casual byproduct of craft and stitchery at home . Many craftsman and hobbyists bewail these dings and abrasions inflicted upon their work surface . The best cutting lustrelessness eliminates this problem , so crafters can enjoy stitchery , quilting , scrapbooking , and other hobbies without occupy about damaging countertops and tabletops . We explore heaps of cutting mat and tested 8 of the leading products to see which stood up to various cutting methods .
Whether you cut materials with scissors grip , craftsmanship or public-service corporation knives , orrotary cutters , there are mats designed for every type of cutting puppet . They ’re available in a variety of size of it and colors , imprinted with helpful power grid and road map , and many of them come with ego - healing property . Read on to see our examination results of the best cutting mat along with helpful shopping entropy .
How We Tested the Best Cutting Mats
There are dozens of manufacturers of cutting mats . However , a few brand have a good repute in the crafting creation . We consider democratic blade like Fiskars , Olfa , and Dahle , which are widely known and well respected , and some lesser - have sex brand that received high-pitched rating from quenched customers .
For each mat , we used a rotary blade , craft tongue , box cutlery , and pocket knife to test the lastingness of the surface and its ego - healing ability . We cut through various materials , including card stock , leather , fabric , cardboard , and foam . We also considered how easy it was to read the measurements and make consistent and accurate stinger using the mat ’s grid lines . finally , we rated each mat ’s portability in sheath it would need to be moved to a new domain .
Overall , the top cutting - matte brand name performed well , further solidify their reputations . We were also pleasantly surprised with the functioning of the lesser - know stigma , and we think they are splendid products for novice or budget - minded crafters .
Our Top Picks
The picks below represent high - timber choices for self - healing , easygoing - surface , twofold - sided cutting gym mat that hold up to craft and public utility company knives , orbitual ship’s boat , and scissors . They ’re also uncommitted in a motley of sizes , free weight , and colors .
Imprinted with U.S. customary and metric rulers , power system lines in half - inch increments , and angle cutting guide , this 24 - inch - long by 36 - inch - wide Vantage cutting mat from Dahle offers dual - sided versatility . The thick and long-lasting polyvinyl chloride ( PVC ) stuff protect work surfaces and preserve the sharpness of veer blade .
The Vantage cut lusterlessness offers maximal ego - healing prop due to its five PVC layer . After usage , the cuts disappear , exit behind a soft and smooth surface . This substantial 5 - hammering cutting mat features white grid pedigree that are silver screen printed on a downcast backdrop for increase visibleness and minimum glower . to boot , it can be used on both sides : one side for deliberate cut along storage-battery grid lines and the other side for freehand study .
A big - duty clipping mat is good for quilting and paper wiliness . The Dahle Vantage self - healing turn out mat withstood repeated gash from rotary steel and usefulness knives due to its multilayer PVC construction . We bump that the mat did not dull steel , and the self - heal layer maintained a still Earth’s surface after multiple uses . The only con we find was that the lustrelessness is a tad heavy and may be hard for some people to move around . However , we also feel that its system of weights did help prevent the lusterlessness from shifting during use . It ’s perfect for usage in a dedicated wiliness space or work area that will not require the substance abuser to move it often .
Read our full review : Dahle Vantage 10693 Self - Healing Cutting Mat
Get the Dahle cutting mat atAmazon , B&H , orWalmart .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe
Measuring only 12 inch longsighted by 18 inches wide and weighing just 10.4 ounces , this double - sided cutting mat from Fiskars is easy to channel and store . Use it on multiple piece of work surfaces throughout a home , shop , or studio .
Both sides of this low-cost slip mat feature a highly visible grid that include note , inch marks , and angles . Bias guidelines for 30- , 45- , and 60 - level angles make it easy to cut triangular shapes . With self - heal properties , cut lines disappear from the soft , smooth surface of this cutting mat . Use both sides to put out the versatility and serviceable lifetime of the mat .
We own and have used Fiskars contract mats for many old age . They are affordable , lightweight , and can withstand repeated use . The best feature of this mat is its low-cal and dark background grid options . The colors grant crafters to use one side of the flatness for non-white stuff and the other for light materials . The colors make it easier to make accurate cuts when using material of contrasting colors .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe
This Fiskars is our go - to mat for small craft labor at home base or on the go . The only downside of this mat is that it ’s too small for large labor . However , shoppers can pair this affordable mat with the Dahle Vantage to cover all their cutting needs .
Get the Fiskars diminished cutting matte atAmazon , Michaels , orJoann(18″ x 24″ size ) .
Five layer of PVC textile work together to ego - heal and maintain a continually smooth surface on this cutting lustrelessness from Anezus . The heavy PVC core lends stableness and strength . Along with protect work aerofoil from scratches and gouges , the five - ply PVC stuff prevents circular blades , ten - Acto knife leaf blade , and other craft tools from becoming dull with usage .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe
The greenish airfoil coloration features clearly imprinted white grid lines that are gentle on the eyes for both centimeter and inch mensuration , along with angles , circles , and conformation . Both face of this double - sided cutting gym mat are also imprint with cut guidelines . Easily toss over this 12.1 - ounce cutting mat for versatility and to extend its operational life story .
Rotary cutters are the go - to cock for quilters . The Anezus stitching flatness well withstands multiple lead with the sharp roundabout sword , allow for the Earth’s surface as near as new . It also does a majuscule job of holding up to repeated cuts from utility knife . We also liked that in plus to the angle , metric , and received units of measurement on the matte , it also features hexagon , circle , and oval shape measurements .
The only drawback we happen with this mat is that it is not precisely 12 inches long by 18 inches wide as advertised . It measure out about 11.5 inches foresighted by 17.5 column inch wide in total . and the grid on one side measure 11 in long by 17 inches wide-eyed . While this is n’t a slew breakers , we thought it was rum .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Anezus cut mat atAmazonorWalmart .
Best For Sewing
Fiskars 3-Piece Rotary Cutting Mat Set
Fiskars 3 - piece rotary cutting mat set geminate its iconic 18 - inch - by-24 - column inch self - cure swerve matting with two other essentials for sewing : a 6 - inch - by-24 - inch absolved acrylic swayer and a 45 - millimeter rotary leaf blade . The acrylic fiber ruler include highlighted line allowance for strip clipping and a grid for simplified soma cutting . The 45 - millimeter rotary blade features an ergonomic handle . It well cuts multiple layers of cloth and allows the user to make more accurate , straight cuts without jagged boundary .
The 18 - in - by-24 - inch Master of Arts in Teaching features an leisurely - to - take mensuration grid and a ego - mend surface found on all of Fiskars ’ cutting mats . However , this stage set ’s stomach - out feature is that it turn up in half for easy reposition . The set is an affordable way of life to get three crucial puppet for sewing and craft .
We are fans of Fiskars cock and have used the firebrand ’s cutting mat , circular blade , and rulers for many years . This three - art object band performed just as well as any of our other Fiskars products . We did like that the lusterlessness fold in half , making it easier to place in a bag or rapier forth for warehousing . The mat holds up to repeated cuts from the rotary brand and craft knives . The only drawback we found was that the mat is not double - sided . However , the back of the matt feature a felt nonskid surface that prevents the mat from shift while cutting .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Fiskars 3 - while swerve mat do atAmazon , Joann , orWalmart .
Best Portable
Alvin Professional Self-Healing Cutting Mat
Alvin ’s professional - quality cutting mats are made from a composite vinyl cloth design for rotary and straight utility program blades . useable in a miscellanea of sizes , all the mat are 3 millimetre heavyset and two-fold - side for versatility . The Earth’s surface is nonglare , self - healing , and dual - sided . The smallest Alvin mat is 3.5 inches long by 5.5 inches wide . It features an inch power system in blanched on both side with a unripened background on one side and fateful on the other .
We like mats that provide dual semblance option because it make it well-fixed to cut dark and light materials when using a contrasting background people of color . This mat well withstood repeated cuts from orbitual and workmanship blade in examination . The only downside we found was that the mat only has U.S. wonted measurement . We like the added wash room of having metric measure on cutting mats because it makes cutting smaller item more accurate when there are measurements down to the millimeter . However , for a minor matt , we found it just as durable as the larger mats we tested . Its belittled size of it shit it comfortable to pop it in cup of tea and pockets , make it unproblematic to take anywhere .
Get the Alvin cutting lustrelessness atAmazonorArt Supply .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Large
Olfa Continuous Grid 35-by-70-Inch Rotary Mat Set
The Olfa uninterrupted grid rotary flatness Seth lie in of three 23.33 - by-35 - inch MAT that plug into to make a large area for seamless cutting . The set has four clips that tightly curb the matt together , forming a continuous grid , and features numerical measurement in U.S. accustomed unit and angles only .
These mats are twofold - sided with yellow storage-battery grid origin on one side for preciseness cutting and substantial immature on the reverse for general cutting . The matt ’s 1.5 - millimetre - thick ego - heal surface extends the animation of orbitual blades , and its large Earth’s surface field allows more than one soul to cut at a time .
We had used several Olfa mat before and always appreciated their lastingness and functionality . We wish that this mat can be used as one large gym mat or three smaller mats if needed . They easily clip together and fare apart . Its Earth’s surface handled multiple cut with rotary blades and craftsmanship knives . The grid and angle lines are easy to read , making precise measurements a cinch .
Photo: amazon.com
The only con we noticed with this mat was its smell . Upon opening , it give off a strong chemical substance odor . Olfa claims that the smell does dispel over fourth dimension and evoke mildly washing the mat with a meek household cleaner to speed up the cognitive operation , which did not mould for us . We guess it will eventually go away , but in the meantime , be trusted to use it in a well - ventilated area .
Get the Olfa cut mat atAmazon , Joann , orTarget .
Best For Small Spaces
Fiskars 14" x 14" Rotating Cutting Mat
The Fiskars rotating slew lusterlessness simplifies cutting material square , comforter block , and more . It features a ego - healing airfoil and comfortable - to - translate measure grids in inch . It also sport 30- , 45- , and 60 - level prejudice lines that help make make triangle and star soma gentle .
Rotating cutting mats are popular among quilters because they can easily square up up comforter blocks accurately . It splay 360 degree , allowing user to make precise cut without lifting the fabric or mat . Each sentence a ruler is moved when rationalise , the odds of inaccurate cutting increment . clip fabric without having to pick up the ruler and jeopardy suffer the ruler ’s placement is the best perquisite of a rotating cut mat .
This rotating mat is also pure for little spaces because it allows users to sew and trim without getting up from their place at the sewing car . This rotating ruler is a mainstay in our craft room , holding up to rotary blades and craftsmanship knives . It fits nicely next to a political machine or in a small craft space . Our only bunco for this mat is that it ’s only designed for textile smaller than 13.5 inches feather , despite being 14 inch square . Anything with child than 13.5 in make it hard to see the like measurement marks on the diametrical sides of the Master of Arts in Teaching . However , for quilting or small project , this mat is perfect .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Fiskars spread out cutting lustrelessness atAmazon , Joann , orWalmart .
Best For Die-Cut Machines
ReArt Cutting Mat Variety 6 Pack
Die - cut machines
use specialty mat with tacky surfaces to help keep stuff in place while cut . Eventually , after repeated use , the mat need to be replaced . The ReArt mixed bag inner circle features six mat in two sizing and three grip grade to help keep user craft without putting a dent in their billfold .
The multipurpose mats work with many materials , including pattern theme , wit stock , and vinyl . The lusterlessness are coloring - rag and sport three levels of tackiness : idle , standard , and firm travelling bag . The hardening has three 12 - by-12 - inch flatness and three 12 - by-24 - in mat in the three bobby pin levels . Each mat is protect by a transparent motion picture screening to keep dust and debris off the airfoil when not in exercise . The MAT work well with top die - cutting machines , include the
Photo: amazon.com
Cricut Explore
and
Silhouette Cameo
Photo: amazon.com
.
Overall , these cutting mats performed just as well as mats made by
Cricut
Photo: amazon.com
and Silhouette . However , they are thinner than the brand mats . notwithstanding , the gym mat did a great occupation of keep notice stock and vinyl in stead while cutting . The cloth were easy to remove without damage . The only con we noticed was that the cutting lines made by the machine seemed to stand out more than the swing made on the brand mats . This is n’t a deal surf ; it just mean it may not last as long as the stigma - name mats . Overall , the ReArt mats are worth purchasing as an cheap replacement matte for the Cricut and Silhouette auto .
Get the ReArt cut mat fixed atAmazon .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Cutting Mat
The best ignore mat for DIY labor can become a favorite item in the studio apartment , shop , guile way , or sewing room . Before choosing a mat , deal the type of thin out routine it will facilitate as well as the most frequently used cutting tool . The size , heaviness , and weight of the mat are crucial factors . Additionally , the surface finish and imprinted cut guidelines tote up economic value to a knifelike mat . Keep read to search essential considerations for choosing the best film editing gym mat .
Intended Use
Before selecting the best cutting mat , suppose about its specify use as well as the physical parameters of the work space . rationalise lustrelessness serve numerous purposes for crafters , hobbyists , artists , and sewing enthusiasts . conceive the advantage of various cutting mats for protecting surfaces from circular blades , X - Acto knife , utility program knife , pair of scissors , and other tools .
In addition to protect work surface from impairment , cutting mats keep up the acuity and extend the usable life of cut back blades . Different cutting matt also offer advantages for divers mapping based on their varying thickness and ego - healing timbre .
Cutting lustrelessness are available in a variety of size to fit the intended uses of DIY enthusiasts . For some applications , with child nonportable cutting mat may supply the most favorable service . On the other bridge player , DIYers who intend to transmit their cutting MAT or practice them for light work may opt for small , lightweight , and portable versions .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe
Material
Most cutting mat usable on the market today are constructed from compressed layers of PVC . PVC is a heavy , thermoplastic polymer , and the flexible , plasticise PVC in cutting Master of Arts in Teaching is pliant , unlike the rigid PVC used in bathymetry pipes and agricultural applications .
Thickness
Generally talk , cutting matte are not dense items . They are intended to wait on as coverings for solid , substantive employment open , such as tables and countertops . However , high - timber cutting mats should be no less than ⅛ inch thick , as blade can cut through thin mats . Most cut mats range in heaviness from ⅛ to ⅓ inch . They prevent accident where rotary or knife blade cut through and damage the work surface .
In addition to overall heaviness , exploiter may consider the bit of layers ( plies ) of PVC material in cut mat . Manufacturers label cut mats as three - ply or five - ply to indicate the number of PVC layers compressed in a mat . These are desirable thickness that offer lastingness and prolong the biography of write out brand . to boot , a design in which the inner bed ( core ) of PVC is thicker than the outer layers cater a ego - healing quality and prevents abridge through the mat .
Hard vs. Soft Surface
As name above , the small compress PVC vulcanized fiber in a mild - surface cutting mat allow tongue blade to pass between rather than trim through the matt . After a cutting , these fibers return to their original spot , and the surface seem to “ heal . ” In addition to maintaining the liquid , unmutilated appearance of the cutting mat , soft - surface construction protract the edge and functionality of cut blade .
Alternatively , hard - surface cutting mat made from chicken feed and other heavy materials allow blades to glance over over the control surface , rather than cutting into it . They do not sport ego - healing qualities and may dull the blades of cutting tools over time .
Surface Texture
The optimal surface texture for a cutting Master of Arts in Teaching is neither too legato nor too jolty . Overly smooth texture tend to reflect lighting , produce a glaring issue . This distraction can cause eye strain and inaccurate newspaper clipping for crafters and sewer . On the other script , textures that are too pugnacious may negatively sham cutting truth , as blade might snag on rough surface .
A smooth matte finish reduce public eye but does not show the problems of overly rough grain . However , it is all-important that cutting mats do not slip or slide on work surface during use . A nonskid airfoil is desirable for serenity of brain and safety while working with knifelike cutting blades .
Double-Sided vs. Single-Sided
forked - sided cutting mat offer big usefulness , as users can turn over them over and work on the other side . A five - ply cutting mat provides two soft outer layers on each side of a thicker interior layer . A three - ply cutting mat features a single kayoed stratum on either side of a gruelling centre layer . Both designs provide durability and extend the life history of these ego - healing thin out Master of Arts in Teaching .
Most cutting off mats let in measure marker , grid lines , and cut rule of thumb for specific Angle and figure imprinted on their surfaces . Some double - sided cutting mats feature a wide regalia of cutting guidelines with distinct sets of control grid line on both side . DIYers may thumb these mats to unveil the desire angles and form for their projection .
FAQs
With the ability to protect work surfaces and preserve cutting blades , a issue lustrelessness nominate DIY projects safe and more enjoyable . Additionally , a cutting matting with self - healing properties declare oneself foresightful - term service and give up possibilities for employing a diversity of DIY tools . When using a Modern cutting matte , the solvent to these common questions may be helpful .
Q. What is a self-healing cutting mat?
Cutting mats are “ ego - healing ” when no marks are left behind from cut tools . These mat are made of tiny , separate pieces of PVC stuff that are compressed together . This allow a vane to contract between these part , followed by them closing back together or “ healing ” after the vane is take out .
Q. What should I look for in a cutting mat?
The thickness of the foreshorten mat should offer at least three layer of PVC cloth , and the inner layer ( core ) should be thicker than the soft outer layer . to boot , the self - healing quality tot note value to a lancinating matt . Look for a size that can oblige most DIY projects .
Q. How do I maintain my cutting mat?
lay in the flatten cutting mat off from extreme temperatures and sunlight . Do n’t wind it up for storehouse . houseclean the cutting mat occasionally with mild dish soap and piddle , and dry out it using a lint - devoid fabric .
Q. How long do cutting mats last?
Cutting mats should last 5 to 10 age , depend on how frequently they are used and how well they are wish for .
Q. What is the best cutting mat for knives?
The best cutting mat for knives is a heavy - duty ego - heal lusterlessness with multiple layer , like theDahle sheer lustrelessness . This flatness feature five - ply PVC layers that can withstand repeated stinger of knives , rotary blades , utility knives , and more .
Meet the Tester
Debbie Wolfe is a photographer , source , and freelance writer in various niches . She has bestow hundreds of home , garden , and crafting articles and DIY tutorials for leading medium outlets and retail merchant , including HGTV , Real Simple , Forbes Advisor , The Spruce , The Home Depot , Walmart , and Mother Earth News . She is the author of two DIY record book : Do - It - Yourself Garden Projects and CraftsandCrafting with herb , from Skyhorse Publishing . Her testing approach is straightforward and budget minded .
Additional research supply by Carol Benton .
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