What is a Rotating Cutting Mat?

For those who haven’t used one before, a rotating cutting mat is essentially a circular cutting surface that spins freely on its base. This lets you rotate the fabric underneath your ruler or rotary cutter for precision cuts each time. Traditional rectangular mats can make lining things up for multiple cuts a bit tricky since the fabric has to be repositioned each time. Rotating mats solve that issue.

What type of cutting mat is best for quilting?

You’ll want a rotating cutting mat for quilting. Rotating mats let you spin fabrics easily as you cut to get precise shapes and straight lines. They basically make cutting way more accurate.n

How big should a quilting cutting mat be?

Most quilters say that the regular size rotating mats which are around 18 by 24 inches do the job well for most projects . However, if you do a lot of big quilts, maybe look at larger mats that are 24 by 36 inches. They give you more space to cut big pieces of fabric without issues. Either way, the important thing is getting a mat that spins!n

What material is best for quilting cutting mats?

Most rotating cutting mats for quilting are made of a thick, durable plastic called polyethylene. This strong material stands up to repeated cuts without getting worn down. It also has just the right amount of drag to hold fabrics in place while you cut but not tear them. Plastic mats seem to last for years with regular use, unlike the old self-healing rubber mats.n

How do I keep my cutting mat clean?

Over time, cutting mats collect bits of thread and stray fibers stuck in the surface. To keep it cutting sharp, wipe off your mat periodically with a dryer sheet. The antistatic properties lift off lint like magic. You can also use isopropyl alcohol and a paper towel for a deeper clean. Just be sure to dry the mat completely before storing to protect the surface.n

Can I get more than one cutting mat?

Having additional cutting mats is sort of a quilter’s luxury. It allows you to spread out multiple projects at once without rearranging fabrics. Nevertheless, one high-quality rotating mat can take you far if you don’t have huge space. At the same time, swapping between surfaces extends the lifespan of each mat. On the other hand, quilting rarely follows a straight linear path, so extra mats give flexibility.n

How long will a cutting mat last?

Good rotating cutting mats typically last several years with regular use if cared for properly. However, their lifespan depends somewhat on the materials, your cutting pressure, and storage conditions in between projects. The plastic surface may show deep cuts after dozens of quilt tops. Amazingly, some die-hard quilters claim their original mats are still going strong after a stunning ten years or more. But sooner or later, even the toughest mats need replacing. With proper cleaning and storage, most quilters can get a few hundred hours of cutting time from a single mat.