Cutting Mats….

Did you know that there are two different types of cutting mats?  There is the self-healing and the self-sealing.  I think most people are familiar with the self-healing mats because these are commonly found at crafts stores.  The most common brands are Omnigrid and Fiskars.  Personally, I use a Salem mat which is also a self-healing mat.   I have been using this brand of cutting mat for about 30 years and still have the first mat that I purchased.

What are the differences between the self-sealing and the self-healing?  The self-healing mat is generally a little thinner, softer mat with some being pinnable.  The self-sealing mat is a thicker mat with a harder surface.  The self-sealing mat is harder to find.  The self-sealing mat is better to use with a knife because the surface will not damage the blade.  It is not recommended to use a knife on a self-healing craft mat because they are thinner and you might cut through it. 

I found a buying guide at cutting-mats.net - http://www.cutting-mats.net/choose-cutting-mats.html

Cutting mat care - http://www.heirloomcreations.net/sewing-tips/rotary-cutting-mat-care-tips/

I also found a youtube video that talked about cutting mat care - 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJihZjg1eFE

Here’s a good video from olfa regarding care - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOWov9-02Qg

Here’s a blog post on Olfa cutting mat care - 

http://flourishingpalms.blogspot.com/2014/01/rotary-mat-tip-and-smiles.html

Only you can decide whether to get a self-sealing mat or a self-healing mat but there are other features to look for:

1.  Surface Texture     

2.  Gridded or not  

3.  Translucent or not 

I couldn't find any information about whether the harder surface would dull you blades faster.  The only mention that I found regarding the blades was to change them often to extend the life of your mat. A dull blade means that you are working harder to make a cut and most likely pushing down harder on the mat. 

So, do you have more than one mat?  Are they different types?  I have two mats --  a large 2’ x 4’ and as small mat.  Do you have any specialty mats?  Like a rotating mat or a mat and ironing pad combo? I would love to hear about your experiences with these two type of mats.  Are they worth the money to purchase?

Happy Stitching!