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Can’t do without cutting mats in crafting
Every crafter needs precision cutting tool for a cutting mat saves work surfaces from being carved too! To save counter tops and tables from damage, cutting boards are the solution. They are available in a range of sizes and styles; they prevent damage on the working surface, and keep the blade of your knife from dulling quickly.
Cutting mat types
For every arts and crafts project using a utility knife or a rotary cutter, you need a cutting board. Two types of cutting mat: (i) hard-surface (self-sealing) with harder, rigid and rougher so the blade easily skims across the mat surface without cutting; and (ii) self-healing (soft surface) is more flexible but much thinner layer of colored vinyl. They are in a few different colors and grid/line mark-ups, so check well before buying.
Self healing mat
Be sure to get a self healing mat with at least a 24” by 36” ruler grid that includes bias angle lines. This is a great size for most projects and makes it easy when you want to see how many yards of this or that stashed fabric you have. For an accurate layout, you get one whose grid pattern is 1” and with angular guides of 90, 45, and 30 degrees.
Caring for self healing mats
Your bff in doing projects is your self healing mat, so it needs your TLC. From time to time, take a little scrubber and brush off any loose threads that get caught. Use a light touch and don’t rub too hard. You may also do quick bath using vinegar solution and dish soap. You have to remove any surface stains on the mat.
Other uses for cutting mats
Investing in a cutting board is a wise decision since you can use it for other tasks. It is great for pinning and marking; protects your table or counter from getting scratched by pins or accidently marked on. They also make these handy portable cutting and pressing stations that have a cutting mat on one side and a surface for ironing on the other. They are useful if you are have limited space or sew on the go often. If you have a dedicated sewing area and want to make the investment, your dream sewing studio would have a table-sized mat for sure!
Having decided to buy cutting mat, consider these:
Consider which type is best for you. You can opt for the hard-surface cutting mat or self-healing cutting mat with soft surface. You better choose the mat with the largest size so you can make the most of it. Be sure that it fits the work and storage areas available.
For the thickness of self healing cutting mats, purchase either the 2 mm or the 3 mm in thickness. Purchase a cutting mat; whether it is the hard surface board or self healing mat does not matter as long as it is the right one for you. With a cutting mat, you are confident that your entire craft or arts project will come out successful!
