Originally Posted by BellaBoo
Where I use to work gaskets were cut when needed. The hard surface mats were used so the expensive blades would last longer.
I'm sorry but I don't understand the relevance of this? :shock:
In quilting, a blade costs a tenth of a mat - at least here in the UK it does. Before I knew any better, I'd persevere for ages with a blunt blade and I have a couple of permanently scarred mats here as a testament. Now I change blade often and my mats stay pristine. Besides the fact, the force you exert when trying to cut with a blunt blade means you are more likely to slip and injure yourself. Personally I'd rather spend a bit more and keep all my fingers. :-D
I have no experience of Martelli though, perhaps they're tougher than my Olfas.