Self-healing cutting mat – why is it actually called that? And what distinguishes good cutting mats from bad ones? In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about these useful sewing aids.
How does a self-healing cutting mat work?
Cutting mats consist of several layers of plastic designed to protect the rotary cutter's blades while simultaneously preventing the table from getting cut marks.
The top layer of the mat usually consists of a somewhat softer plastic. It has the practical property of allowing cuts to "heal" on their own. As long as no lint or fibers remain in the cut, the cut is subsequently no longer - or barely - visible with standard rotary cutters.
The cutting mat also fulfills another important function due to its grid scale:
Most cutting mats are printed on the front and back with centimeter and inch markings, as well as markings for various angles. These help you, for example, to cut bias tape precisely at a 45-degree angle.
What size should the cutting mat be?
Most sewing beginners start with a small cutting mat. And then they realize that even for smaller projects - such as sewing children's clothing or sofa cushions - a lot of cutting space is required.
I recommend getting a sufficiently large cutting mat from the start. With DIN A1, you are practically prepared for every sewing challenge.
Simone has the beautiful (and very durable) Omnigrid cutting mats* available in several sizes. You can choose the right size according to your needs.
What types of cutting mats are there?
From very small to very large to special cutting mats, there is a huge selection available.
At this point, I will introduce you to a few cutting mats and explain the special features that each mat brings with it.
The all-purpose cutting mat
It can be used for working with paper as well as with fabrics, plastic, or leather. It usually features scales on both the front and back - often in inches and centimeters.
This is especially practical if you like American patchwork, as the measurements there are almost always in inches.
The Omnigrid cutting mats* in the image below also have diagonal markings that provide you with exact angles and cutting lines.
The foldable cutting mat
For some time now, there have been practical foldable cutting mats. One of the particularly recommended ones comes from Olfa* (who make good mats anyway).
This cutting mat has a wavy divider in the middle where it can be folded. This makes the mat easier to store - it then also stabilizes itself when standing upright thanks to the two layers.
The rotating cutting mat
Sitting on a turntable, the rotating cutting mat is primarily suitable for patchwork and quilt fans. You can rotate it while working, which means you don't have to lift the fabric. This allows for more precise work.
It can only be used on one side and is provided with markings and a scale on the top. The wavy edge allows for a good grip when turning the cutting mat. The soft plastic underside suctions onto the tabletop and ensures that the cutting mat does not move while working.
In the picture, you can see the rotating cutting mat from Prym*. It is marked in centimeters and has a diameter of 35 centimeters. So, it is also large enough for many smaller sewing projects and for patchwork.
The combination cutting mat
A useful combination for patchwork fans: the combination patchwork board.*
The mat features a sandpaper-roughened surface that is suitable for marking. The fabrics do not slip due to the sandpaper coating. The board has an iron-safe side - and a small cutting mat.
Overall, a clever solution for patchwork and sewing fans with a preference for small sewing projects, for example also for English Paper Piecing.
Can you iron on cutting mats?
Absolutely not! Cutting mats consist of several layers of plastic, which is sensitive to heat. And not just to ironing heat.
Direct sunlight can also cause the cutting mat to form unsightly waves. Precise work is then no longer possible.
However, you can build a small tabletop ironing board and park it on the cutting mat. Then you will always have the iron within reach.
You can find out how to do that in no time in my post Build your own mini ironing board.
How much should a self-healing cutting mat cost?
A good self-healing cutting mat has its price. It usually ranges between 50 and 80 euros. The cutting mat from Omnigrid/Prym* is affordable and good. The large 90 x 60 cm mat costs around 70 euros. The equally recommendable cutting mat from OLFA* costs around 50 euros in the same size.
What are the quality differences in cutting mats?
Big ones! The devil is in the details here. When buying, you should pay attention to the following criteria:
- good, clear scaling
- non-slip surface
- overall, the mat should quickly return to its original shape after being bent
- the mat should be made of several layers - this ensures stability and flexibility
- the mat should not be too hard - otherwise, the cuts will not really close well
Does the cutting mat make my rotary cutter dull?
The harder the surface, the more rotary cutters tend to become dull.
However: Basically, cutting mats are designed to work perfectly as cutting surfaces for work with rotary cutters.
Nevertheless, over time, you will find that the blade of your rotary cutter no longer cuts as well because the edge has worn down slightly. This is completely normal.
Either you sharpen it with a blade sharpener* (which I already introduced to you in my post 20 sewing tips that will change your life - an extremely practical device that can ensure that one has to replace fewer rotary cutter blades) - or you replace the blade with a new one.
My tip: It is better to replace your rotary cutter blades one time too often than too rarely. Cutting with a dull blade requires unnecessarily much force, is imprecise, and nicks your cutting mat.
Reading tip: Everything about rotary cutters
My tip: Generally, it is a good idea for the rotary cutter and cutting mat to be from the same manufacturer. Then you can be sure that both devices are perfectly coordinated with each other.
For the cutting mat from Prym/Omnigrid*, the rotary cutter from Prym/Olfa* is fantastic.
How do you clean a self-healing cutting mat?
Over time, all cutting mats become linty and unsightly.
Often, the surface is not only exposed to fabrics but also to glue, chalk, pens, or other materials.
With the right methods, however, they can be cleaned wonderfully.
You can find out how to do that in my blog post Cleaning and caring for cutting mats.
How can you store cutting mats?
Basically: Cutting mats tend to take improper storage badly. They get kinks or bumps that don't go away.
Many sewing fans do not have a dedicated sewing room where the cutting mat can always be stored within reach on the cutting table. They help themselves by leaning the mat against a cabinet or shelf after cutting.
Nice idea. Unfortunately not helpful.
Because the mat gradually bends when leaned against something. Depending on its composition, your cutting mat may never recover from this adventure.
So: Cutting mats should definitely be stored lying flat. If they cannot be permanently placed in the sewing room, they are also well kept under the bed or on top of a cabinet.
What can I do if the cutting mat has bent?
Small waves and unevenness can be leveled out by letting the cutting mat "relax" while lying flat. Lay the mat directly on the bulge. This gives the unevenness a chance to gradually even out due to the weight of the mat.
You can gently support the straightening process by placing a slightly warmed hot water bottle or a heating blanket (if you have one) on the mat.
When do I have to replace a cutting mat?
When it no longer performs its function. This can be the case, for example, if
- fibers can no longer be removed from the cuts
- the cutting mat is bent or wavy
- the surface is sticky
- the scale is no longer easily recognizable
- deep cuts in the surface make precise work impossible
Rule of thumb: If your cutting mat starts to "track" the rotary cutter, it's time for a new cutting mat.
Which cutting mat is recommended?
Of course, I have tried out several cutting mats over time.
Since I sew a lot, my cutting mats are exposed to quite a bit of stress - they have to be able to withstand quite a lot. At this point, a note: I only recommend what I have bought and tested myself - and what I am convinced of.
The best self-healing cutting mat
If you like to patchwork and quilt, I recommend the rotating cutting mat from Prym*. It is solidly crafted, rotates easily, and is comfortable to use. Because of its handy size of 35 centimeters in diameter, it is not only suitable for patchwork projects. It can also be used well for other sewing projects.
As a universal cutting mat, I have for some time now exclusively recommended these two mats:
The first comes from Omnigrid/Prym. What I especially like about the Prym mats: They are very resistant, forgive cuts quickly, and are gentle on your rotary cutter blades. And: You can get the same material quality in several sizes.
A recommended alternative to the Prym mat: The Olfa cutting mat. It is a bit thinner than standard mats and has a soft, matte surface. This prevents the fabric from slipping while cutting, which I find extremely practical. This feature is worth its weight in gold, especially when cutting viscose, jersey, or knit fabrics.
The mat lasts forever, is easy to clean, and has a clear scale – with a centimeter grid on the front and an inch grid on the back. This is particularly useful if you enjoy sewing from American patterns or patchwork tutorials.
Did you like this post? Feel free to leave me a comment! :)
Happy simple sewing, your Sabine
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