ladydukes

For Martelli, wait for their half-price sale on mats. That's when I purchased my big mat. I really like it because it doesn't get cut places in it. I also have Olfa and several other brands of smaller mats.

Pete

I have the Martelli (paid $25 at a LQS that was closing) and use any ruler.

tenngal

I really prefer my Olfa mat which gets a lot of use and still looks great

donnamcr

Okay ladies, I am needing a new mat and ruler, and upon the recommendation of several of you, I bought the Olfa self-healing and an Olfa ruler (with the lip, which I like). Got a great deal at http://www.wawak.com/. I have never ordered from them before, but they had the lowest prices I could find.
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Judi in Ohio

Love my Martelli mat. Bought it with their 50% off sale and love it.

joyce888

I use Olfa but conditioning the mat by soaking in tub of lukewarm water is key to healing any self-healing mat and making it last longer. I had a Beba that honest-to-god didn't last more than 3 months. They allowed me to exchange it but now I use it under my Olfa to protect my table. My personal preference is to use the same brand mat as my rulers (except for special cut rulers, like Deb Tucker).

ccthomas

I like my Olfa as the first mat as I grab.