cutting mats
 

What is the best cutting matt for cutting scraps and fabrics? I have a big one I bought at Hobby Lobby but it is already getting grooves in it. I will have to replace it. Any ideas or advice?

I prefer the Omnigrid mats that are now ONLY sold online and not in JAF stores (at least they weren't in any of my local JAF stores). They are a little thicker then normal mats and last a lot longer.

I have used two and the Olfa is by far the one that has lasted the longest. I have used mine for years and it is still very good.

If one has really sharp rotary cutting blades, one uses a lot less pressure to cut.

I think trying to cut with a dull blade and leaning on it is about the hardest thing on a mat.

My advice: use sharp blades and as little pressure on them as possible. My mat was gouged by DGDs when they did know any better - and I was not not watching them closely.

I too think you are letting your blades get too dull. Hard on mats and hard on hands and wrists.
Mine are 20+ years old and look fine...Omni and Fiskers both

I don't think rotary mats last as long as they used to. I change blades frequently and still my mat ( olfa) just does not seem to last very long. I am lucky to get 2 years use.

I like Fiskers because I find there is less fabric slippage while cutting. I still have my original gray one from the '80's, with very little wear or grooves.

I am very lucky to have my DM's very large Sewfit pinable cutting mat and my own smaller one that have both been well used for over 20 years. I also have a selection of many other mats of different sizes and two turntable mats (all bought every time I get a good sale or coupon) that I use for smaller projects. I know that if I ever replace the big ones, it will be Sewfit brand.

Mine is called June Tailor. I've had it for sometime now, would like someday to get Olfa. I've heard a lot about them.