What is a Cutting Mat?

A cutting mat is a measurement tool used for sewing and crafts projects. Generally, cutting mats are a rectangular piece of durable material, such as vinyl or rubber. They are marked on one side with a grid guide of specific measurements, usually of one quarter to one inch (6.35 mm to 2.54 cm). A cutting mat is used both to protect the surface you are cutting on, and to provide measurement guidelines and references to ensure a clean and straight cut. It is useful in a variety of projects and is considered an essential for accuracy in many crafts.

The material used to make the mat is generally self-healing, which means it absorbs small nicks or cuts and survives multiple uses. Cutting mats range in area from around 88 inches² (2.23 m²) for small projects, all the way up to 32 feet² (9.75 m²) for large-scale cutting. Some companies offer custom mats in even larger sizes, used to cover cutting tables or production surfaces. Usually, the grid-imprinted side will also include 40 and 60 degree angles along with the standard measurements, while the opposite side is left blank for general cutting.

When using a cutting mat for sewing or crafts, most people work with a rotary cutter. This tool is a pizza-wheel shaped knife blade that rolls along material, cutting as it goes. A straight blade, like a utility knife, may also be used, but rotary cutters are considered by experts to be easier to handle and safer for beginners.

For quilters, a cutting mat can be invaluable for cutting out precise squares. With extremely long pieces of fabric, using a cutting mat and rotary cutter is more efficient than the repeated motion of scissors, and following the grid marks ensures precision. However, cutting mats can be used for a variety of projects, not only for those involving sewing or fabric.

If you are a baker who has difficulty dividing dough into even amounts, a cutting mat can be a useful tool. Simply pour a little flour on the grid side of the mat to prevent sticking and roll your dough directly onto it. By using the grid marks as a guide, you can ensure perfectly identical dough strips for pastries or pasta.

Another use for a cutting mat is to aid in handwriting. Those studying calligraphy can slip a mat under their paper and use the grid marks as a reference to ensure even and equal-sized lettering. This technique also provides protection to the surface below, keeping it safe from ink leaks.

Small cutting mats are generally inexpensive, starting at around $5 US Dollars (USD). Prices go up with size and durability of materials, with some of the larger varieties costing $200-$300 USD. You can find such mats at crafts stores, sewing and notions stores, art stores, and on many online sites. For cutting, crafting and even for baking, a cutting mat is a valuable tool that can aid almost any project, and fit almost every budget.